Country 13-6-78 (Polulach 3, Randell 3, Woodrich 2, Gillispe 2, Murray, Bridges, McLelland) defeated City 11-2-68 (Lewis 6, Benton 3, Lin, George)

The New York Magpies’ first ever City/Country Challenge saw those living in Manhattan taking on those from the suburbs and other New York City boroughs. The city team was forced to trade Ring-In Ted Woodrich to the country team, a move that City coaches Jarrad Crighten and Brett Lewis would live to regret.

The first quarter was a low scoring affair with the City team taking a one kick advantage at the first break. The second quarter belonged to the City team thanks to full-forward skipper Brett Lewis who finished the game with six majors. Lewis’ team took a three goal lead at the main break.

The boys from the country kicked it up in the second half thanks to some great running from midfielders Skinny Randell and Jimmy Polulach, who both finished with three through the big sticks. Going into the final period the city team had an eight point lead, but some solid work by Reuben Murray and the traded Ted Woodrich gave the country team a ten-point, come-from-behind win.

Next week the Magpies will host their annual State of Origin game at Staten Island’s Miller Field starting at 2pm. The Victorians have had the stronghold on the game over the last four seasons, but with the Allies acquiring a number of key recruits over the winter, this year’s State of Origin maybe the closest ever.