With the Country Championships campaign coinciding with the Bulls’ clash with Brothers Rose had a tough decision on his hands.

However he elected to play in West Wyalong.

The star five-eighth said it was a hard decision to make.

“In past years normally the rep games are on the Saturday and then club games on the Sunday so it was a bit inconvenient that it was fallen on the same day,” Rose said.

“Obviously I’d like to be out there with the Southcity boys on Saturday but it is just the way things go.”

Coach Josh Cale was pleased to have Rose lining up as well.

Rose didn’t play for Group Nine in the selection trial as he worked his way back to form after knee surgery.

However he’s starting to feel confident on it again.

“I’m just starting to find my feet again,” Rose said.

“I’m starting to feel good and trying to get better after each game.”

Riverina face a big challenge taking on a Monaro outfit full of confidence after a 62-0 win over Western Division last week.

The Canberra team also has the benefit of a game together while Riverina has only trained twice as a team.

They had a session last week before a captain’s run in West Wyalong on Friday.

Rose is looking for his team to work hard for each other.

The playmaker is no stranger to representative, having previously played for both Country Firsts and Country Bulls.

He’s looking to leave his mark one more time now that the Country Championships have moved to under 23s.

“I think it brings out the best in the players by playing at a higher level,” Rose said.

“Hopefully I can play well myself as it is going to be my last year.”

However he’s a supporter of bringing in the age restriction this season.

“I think it is going to be a good thing,” Rose said.

“You still have seniors who are gun players but they probably aren’t going to pursue their way into the NRL while there are young blokes who are keen and looking to still make a career from footy.”

Thomas Besgrove has been named as his replacement for Southcity.

Rose is confident he can fill his boots.

“Bessy is a nice player and will do the job very well,” he said “He won’t try to over play his hand but keep things nice and simple.”