It did not escape Canberra coach Ricky Stuart that two of his players were the first to leap to Tolu Koula’s defence when the Origin debutant was flattened by Kalyn Ponga in Wednesday night’s series opener. Ethan Strange and Hudson Young were the closest to Koula when he was hit high in the 57th minute, but they also made it known they were not happy with the illegal tackle by roughing up the Queenslanders. Ponga was sent off for the high hit and NSW roared home to win 22-20. “I loved seeing that moment,” Stuart said. “It’s in their DNA – that’s why they are such a big part of our team, because they care for their mates. “I was so proud of the boys and for their families. They made a huge contribution to that win. They did the Raiders proud. “I always knew Ethan would perform well. I wouldn’t have said what I did last year [about him playing for NSW] if I didn’t believe in him. Ashley Klein’s decision to send off Kalyn Ponga changed the game. Getty Images “I also loved the way Hudson played.…