In the inaugural game between the WA State Side and the NSW Country Bulls played as the curtain raiser to the Rabbitohs and Warriors Clash at nib Stadium, WA were victorious with the final score line of 36 to 30.
It was a great result for Western Australia which has won the past four national affiliated state championships and the game against the Bulls was another step up which they took with both hands. It was a big challenge for the team and one which further indicates the strength of the game in the West.
WA kicked away to a 12 nil lead early in the game, but with errors being made the ability of the Bulls came to fore and they dominated much of the first half going into the sheds 24 to 12.
The turnaround in the second half was fantastic for WA. They played with a lot more ball control and quickly got the game back to an even score line and then with 10 minutes to go had built it to a 12 point lead. The urgency by the Bulls was then noticeable and they started getting possession back but could only manage a converted try before time ran out
The game was instigated by Country Rugby League CEO Terry Quinn who was looking to provide representative opportunities for the Bulls. Coinciding the visit to WA with the Rabbitohs annual game in Perth was a bonus.
It has been proposed that the game be followed up as an annual fixture between the Leagues, which can only benefit the recognition and growth of the game in WA and NSW Country.