The match was played in horrid conditions at Orange’s Sir Jack Brabham Park, but this didn’t deter Country Western as they came from 2-nil down to hang on for a draw against the side which claimed the 2013 title. 

Mickey Muratovic from Oberon scored two goals, with Steven Long from Bathurst scoring the other goal for Country Western. 

Team manager Gary Inwood believed the Country boys were able to adapt to the near freezing conditions much better than Metro Far South. 

“I think it suited us a bit better. We were down 2-nil and able to peg them back. They’re a city team and used to AstroTurf over mud,” Inwood said

Because of the conditions, Monday’s schedule was swapped with Friday’s in the hope the later start yesterday would allow the fields to dry out a little. 

There is more than the state title up for grabs for the Western boys, with the Country Shield also on the line. It will go to the highest ranked team out of Western, Southern and Riverina.

Inwood believes Country Western are in with a good shot for the Country Shield and a realistic chance to win the state title.

“Were a definite chance for the Country title and if we keep playing like we played today (Monday) we’ve got every chance to be up there,” Inwood said. “They (Metro Far South) won the title last year, so they were a great first up test for us.” 

Country Western take on Metro East at 9.30am today followed by Metro South at midday.