After the historic draw in Dubbo in 2014, Country v City headed to Wagga Wagga in 2015 and both teams fielded strong sides. KARI City Origin featured seven players who had or have since represented the NSW VB Blues: Matt Moylan, James Tedesco, Daniel Tupou, Josh Reynolds, Andrew Fifita and David Klemmer were in the side, while Wade Graham captained. VB Country Origin featured a few big names with James Maloney taking the reins as captain, but with halves partner Jack Bird just five games into his NRL career it was certainly the City side which headed into the clash as favourites.
It started off a typically close encounter; the match headed into the half-time break with a 12-10 score line in favour of VB Country Origin. By the time the full-time whistle sounded, however, Trent Barrett's men had secured a 34-22 upset as all of Country's back six shared in tries, alongside Tariq Sims.
The match, however, is noteworthy for the performance of Blake Austin, who was quickly reaching career-best form following a shift to Canberra that season. The Raiders no.6 crossed for a hat-trick in a losing effort and was exceptional with the ball in hand, but it remains Austin's only senior representative game to date.
Secure your seat at the final ever Country-City clash in Mudgee on Sunday, 7 May. Purchase tickets today to witness history as the curtain draws on a great Rugby League tradition.
