But the Bathurst-based supercoach is also confident the young Rams are up for the challenge.

“The boys have been having some fun and it has given them some good experience,” he said.

“They’re playing a good East Coast team. They’ll be a fast, mobile side and be a handful to contain. We’re looking for a good performance and a hard working performance from our boys.”

He believes an extra week to prepare following last Saturday’s wash-out has worked well for the Rams preparations.

“As far as the boys go, the week off has been better than worse for us. We’re back and fit after the boys picked up a few bumps and bruises,” Hancock said.

Even though making the final of the championships is a great achievement, Hancock said he is expecting his players to give winning the country title a good shot.

“It’s been a good experience working with the kids. I’ve learnt a lot and so have they,” he said.

“They’ve been exposed to NRL and Country Rugby League scouts. 

“The talent we have out here is outstanding and we’re blessed that we’re not so close to the coast, because the young kids out there get moved around a lot.

“We keep them around until they’re about 18. It’s positive signs with the kids we’ve got hanging around and they’re getting better each year.”