Bringing in an age restriction did nothing to quell Group Nine’s dominance of the Kelly Cup.

“Defensively he is so strong and such a tough player,” coach James Smart said.

“I thought he led the boys really well but right across the park Trent Schubach was good and Cam Hands obviously came in late but he directed the boys around the park really well.

“There were plenty of good performances there.

“I was really happy with how the boys went.”

Group 20 haven’t tasted success in the annual clash since 2012 and it could have been at lot worse if it wasn't for poor goal kicking.

Only one of the seven Group Nine tries were converted, with Smart employing seven goal kickers.

“We scored all our tries out wide and there are a lot of players in the team that kick goals for their clubs,” he said.