So who won the New South Wales debate? Most pundits are saying O’Farrell – so am I.

Kristina Keneally and Barry O’Farrell faced off earlier today in Sydney for the televised debate, which was held to mark the fact it is now exactly one year until the New South Wales election.

Although it was not a comprehensive victory – Barry O’Farrell appeared more confident and he landed far more blows than Ms Keneally.

She struggled to defend her Government’s record over the past 15 years – urging voters to focus on the future and not the past.

Early in the debate Mr O’Farrell secured an agreement from the Premier to have election promises independently examined.

“Let’s empower the state’s auditor-general to cost the election promises of the Labor Party and the New South Wales Liberal Party,” he said.

“Let’s level with the public, let’s ensure they have the full information and Kristina, I ask you today to sign up to that proposal.”

When pressed Ms Keneally accepted.

“Auditor-general? Happy to have it done because it will expose the New South Wales Opposition’s approach to campaign promises,” she said.

Mr O’Farrell was asked to explain how he’d pay for his election promises. He said he would free up money by ending waste and mismanagement.

There was a tense moment during an interjection from Mr O’Farrell.

“My mother always taught me that when you want to interrupt someone you say ‘excuse me’ first,” Ms Keneally said.

At one point Ms Keneally wrongly took credit for the M2 motorway which was commissioned by the Coalition, and fiercely opposed by Labor during construction in the 90s.

Mr O’Farrell also corrected Ms Keneally over details of the Port Macquarie Hospital, saying it was another example of her lack of history in New South Wales.

Afterwards Ms Keneally accused Mr O’Farrell of arrogance because he said during the debate “we are going to win” the election.

“I have greater respect for the people of this state, it is there job to determine who will win the next election,” she said.

Ms Keneally was also asked whether she was happy with her performance.

“I am always a tough critic of myself, always. So tonight I am sure I will sit down and go over what I did well and what I would have done better.” she said.

Mr O’Farrell won’t spend the night analysing the debate. He’ll be the hero at a Liberal Party dinner in Sydney being held to raise money for the election campaign.