The gun backrower scored a try in the first half to help his side to a 24-0 lead, before the hosts rallied in trying conditions on home soil to cross twice in the final term.

NSW Country’s under 16s weren’t deterred though, showing their class to wrap up the 36-point triumph, a game played as a curtain raiser to the memorable, 30-year celebration of rugby league in Samoa Test match, with the hosts losing 20-18 against Fiji at Apia Park.

NSW Country also won its opens clash with the Samoa Residents, Jamie Feeney’s side clinching a 36-12 victory.

The NSW Country under 16s side featured a throng of Western Rams juniors, with Forbes’ Charlie Staines also crossing in the win, with Blayney’s Joey Hobby, Wellington’s Brock Naden and Dubbo’s Matt Burton also in action.