It was billed as a friendly old boys match, but the hits, skills and desperation at the Royals and Australian legends clash yesterday suggested otherwise.

The Australian legends team made up of ex-international and state representatives won 26-5 at Phillip Oval, playing as part of the Royals' 60th anniversary celebrations.

Although Price was one of the oldest on the field, he showed the courage and work rate that saw him become a dual international and four-time premiership winner with the Parramatta Eels in the 1970s and '80s.

He had blood dripping from his ear and a stud mark on his right cheek after the match, and he was still hungry for more.

''I've just got a few grazes, it's nothing to worry about,'' Price said. ''I don't mind having a go, they try and belt you because you're older but that doesn't worry me.

''I've got a tackle called the Cumberland throw so that stands me in good stead. It's like a judo roll, I got three of the Royals boys, Didier was the first to go down when he ran at me.''

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times