After going down 59-17 to the NSW Gen Blue under 20s at Mudgee on February 4, the Blue Bulls trailed 33-0 early against a rampant Royals outfit before steadying and scoring the final three tries of the trial match.

Central West Blue Bulls backs coach Graydon Staniforth was thrilled his side was able to rally over the course of the game’s final three periods – the clash was played over five, 20 minute terms – as it did against Gen Blue in early February.

The NSW young guns led that first trial game 38-0 before Central West steeled during the back half of the game to win the final period 12-5.

Staniforth admitted, however, his side’s starts must improve.

“I think initially the guys are pretty anxious to get into it early on and we’re running around out there with headlights in our eyes. It’s a bit of chaos,” he said.

“But then as the game wears on the guys get into a bit of a rhythm and we’re executing what we’ve practiced at training.

“We need to fix the starts, for sure, but I think we’ll improve there the more we play together.”

Staniforth didn’t want to take away from the performance of the Royals though, with the Canberra club dominant in the match’s opening two, 20 minute periods to shoot to a 33-0 advantage.

“Canberra Royals are a really good side,” he added.

“They’re a club side that has been training for a while now. I’d think there’s a few guys in that side on the verge of the Brumbies system as well.”

For the hosts, Emus’ outside back Lachie Harris scored two tries while Carter Hirini backed up his strong outing in game one with a try in game two.

Molong Magpies ace Will Oldham landed two of the three conversions.

Staniforth said a number of players put their hands up for selection in the Blue Bulls’ final squad, with lock Nick Hughes-Clapp and Geurie Goats No.8 Nela Matakaiongo two of the stand-outs during the Royals clash.

Reigning Central West Rugby Union player of the year, Mudgee Wombats flanker Sam Schmidt was another to shine at Cowra.

The Blue Bulls take on the Central Coast on March 25 in their third trial clash before the final squad is picked.