Riverina rugby league bragging rights remain in the east of the region after Group Nine’s 30-18 win in the under 23s at E W Moore Oval on Saturday.

The new age division falls in line with changes to the Country Championships and coach James Smart was impressed with how the team played.

“I was really happy with how the boys went,” Smart said.

“I thought the way we just stuck to our plan, at times we went away from it, but I think they boys showed their class by the way they were able to get themselves on track and really put some points on the board late in that second half.

“It was something we spoke about wanting to do.

“I thought right across the board everyone certainly put their hand up for selection for Riverina.

“It was a good night to be part of.”

Group Nine jumped out to a good start before Group 20 capitalised on some errors and penalties to score late in the first stanza to trail 12-6 at the break.

However they regain their composure and found a way over the lines four times in the second half to run away with the win.

Group Nine captain Dave Cowhan led from the front.

Smart was impressed by how the Country Bulls representative from last season took control.

“Defensively he is so strong and such a tough player,” he said.

“I thought he led the boys really well but right across the park Trent Schubach was good and Cam Hands obviously came in late but he directed the boys around the park really well.

“There were plenty of good performances there.”

Tristan Dickson was also dangerous at the back and created plenty of opportunities with ball in hand.

Group 20 haven’t tasted success in the annual clash since 2012 and it could have been at lot worse if it wasn't for poor goal kicking.

Only one of the seven Group Nine tries were converted, with Smart employing seven goal kickers.

“We scored all our tries out wide and there are a lot of players in the team that kick goals for their clubs,” he said.

“There were no easy kicks.”

The victory completed a clean sweep for Group Nine.

Group Nine started the day with a 34-10 win in the under 16s.

They then scored a narrow 22-16 in the under 18s before breaking their drought in the leaguetag.

Group 20 has dominated the girls competition since its inception, but Group Nine took their win ever win with a 22-16 thriller.

Riverina teams will be selected following the trials.

Smart doesn’t expect the under 23s team, to be coached by Josh Cale, will be picked until late next week.