The young side even surprised themselves with wins in their first two games before competition favourites Sydney East proved a tougher task in the final game on day one of the tournament.

After coming through a thriller to take a 7-6 win over Sydney West, Riverina dominated their next clash with a 8-1 victory over Sydney South West.

However Sydney East continued their strong form to start the tournament to take a 17-1 victory to finish a busy day.

Coach Samantha O'Connell was thrilled with how the team started.

"I did not expect to have done so well, particularly on the first day," O'Connell said.

"The girls did really well.

"I came in with no expectations but they've exceeded any kind of idea on how I thought you would go."

Riverina and Sydney West were neck and neck for most of the first game before a late goal proved to be the difference.

Riverina then dominated their middle fixture before Sydney East ran away with their third victory.

O'Connell thought the visitors' fitness told after a tight first quarter.

"They are really strong, and I believe will probably end up winning the carnival, but we definitely gave it to them in the first quarter," she said.

"We just ran out of legs after a very big day."

Sally Lefoe led the way for Riverina providing plenty of stability and structure while year seven student Chelsea Isaac also impressed.

O'Connell likened her to an Engersier bunny.

"She just kept driving and kept moving," she said.

The competition continues on Tuesday with Riverina playing North West, North Coast and Sydney North.

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