Trent Barrett and Anthony Watmough emerged as leading candidates to win NSW jerseys following City's 29-22 victory over Country after Friday night's annual rugby league clash at Lismore.

Country halfback Barrett single-handedly brought the bushies back into the contest after they trailed 22-0 at halftime in front of 8,553 people at Oakes Oval.

The St George Illawarra skipper scored solo tries in the 46th and 51st minutes to bring Country back from the brink and trailing 22-18.

But Manly back-rower Watmough bagged a 65th minute try against 12 men to give City a comfortable 28-18 lead before a Brent Sherwin field goal with three minutes left put the result beyond doubt.

Barrett outplayed his main rival for the Blues pivot role in Braith Anasta, while Watmough can be confident of gaining a spot on the NSW bench for the series opener against Queensland on May 25.

"I think he wouldn't look out of place in a Blues jersey," said City lock Steve Menzies about his club teammate Watmough.

"I thought he stepped up and played as solidly as he's been playing for Manly.

"He's been in great form and I don't think he was overawed by the occasion tonight."

City interchange forward Reni Maitua missed the final 20 minutes with an ankle injury while Country pair Preston Campbell (concussion) and Anthony Tupou (three teeth knocked out) were also hurt.

Country assistant coach Paul Harragon helped look for Tupou's missing teeth, which were still on a plate when dislodged in a collision with teammate Paul Stringer's fist in the 31st minute.

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