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NRL News City vs Country

Mini the man, as City win

City 12 def Country 6

A vintage performance from Anthony Minichiello allowed City see off a dour Country side tonight in Coffs Harbour.

Mini was the absolute standout player from both teams and has surely won the battle for the NSW fullback role. Brett Stewart for country had limited chances to impress, while Mini shone with every touch of the ball.

Country were without Kimmorley after a heavy knock early on, and lacked direction for the remainder of the match. The halfback spot for NSW is still wide open, but Braith Anasta put his hand up with a stylish and gutsy performance at pivot.

It will be interesting to see who fills the wing positions for NSW, Jarryd Hayne didn't put a foot wrong, nor did El Masri - however his lack of size and speed will go against him. If Cooper and King fill the centre spots - it leaves the wings open for discussion. Lewis went well, what about the forgotton Luke Rooney? Will Grothe be fit? Many question marks remain.

NSW will need to get it right, as they will face the one of the toughest Queensland line-ups ever - with Lockyer, Thurston, Bowen, Tate, Hodges, Webb and Co set to breathe fire - with two games in Qld this year.

While a boring and dour affair tonight, the jostling for NSW spots always makes things interesting. In the forwards Hoffman looks the goods, as was the agressive Brett White.

It will be interesting to see how players back up - moving into the weekends round of football.

In other news Parramatta's PJ Marsh has been given 3 weeks of free negotiation with other clubs as he looks to secure a deal that would allow him a starting hooker spot.