One side stated that the concept is alive and well after one of the most intense matches in recent years while others believe the match still holds little value with NSW coach Laurie Daley not really paying that much attention to it.

With Origin time now getting closer and the likes of Josh Reynolds and Greg Bird unlikely to play, and Jarryd Hayne now of course long gone, there are certainly a number of spots up for grabs.

If City-Country truly was an Origin audition then some players really put their hands up.

Daley would have been delighted to see a bit of passion and feeling in the match as he looks to select players who can handle the high-intensity atmosphere of Origin.

Bulldogs enforcer Josh Jackson has all but sealed a spot after his stellar showing while James Maloney did his chances no harm either.

Both players have either played Origin or been heavily mentioned in the past so it will be no real shock to see them there again this year.

But one player who has come from virtually nowhere to now be in the conversation is Blake Austin.

The Canberra Raiders recruit has been on fire in the early stages of the season, playing a key role in their four wins.

On Sunday at Wagga he showed real support skills to score a hat-trick while he didn't look out of place in the number seven jersey.

He's not ready to be a NSW half just yet but if City-Country is a true step on the way to Origin duties and form really does matter, then it will be no shock at all to see the former Tiger coming off the bench in a sky blue jersey this year.

o o o

On another City-Country-related note, it was great to see fans get out and support the match again.

Following on from Dubbo attracting 9627 in cold and miserable conditions last year, Wagga was packed with 9127 fans on hand to witness the entertaining clash.

The less said about the Coffs Harbour match in 2013 the better, but the last two years has proven if the match is taken to a passionate sporting area then it will work.

It's great to try and grow the game in different areas but making sure the true heartland is strong has got to be the priority and hopefully the NRL has taken note of that.