He’s realistic though and knows the next best thing is to lose as few as possible, especially early on in the Blowes Clothing Cup as his side continues to come to terms with its new system.

Those within the Roos have been adamant it’s going to take some time before top form is seen on the field, with director of rugby Beau Robinson implementing a new, more professional and more club-wide program.

After getting off the mark at Cowra last week, the Roos travel to Orange’s Pride Park on Saturday to take on an Orange City side which is winless after two rounds.

And while patience is the name of the game in these early rounds, McHugh is all too aware a few losses could see his side fall off the pace quickly in what shapes as an incredibly competitive season.

“You don’t want to lose too many and ideally you’d like to lose none at all,” McHugh laughed.

“But we know it’s going to be tough. From all reports City pushed Forbes last weekend so it’s going to be tough, especially going there.

“I’ve never gone to Orange City and had an easy game.”

Motivation is high in the Roos camp and a lot of that has to do with the system brought in by former Super Rugby title-winner, Robinson.

McHugh jokes he’s been playing rugby too long but stated he is getting plenty of enjoyment from a specialised approach which puts emphasis on every single player from first grade through to thirds.

“I’ve seen a lot of systems and strategies and in the bush traditionally you go to any club and it’s pretty similar but this is new and obviously comes from Beau and everywhere he has been and all he’s seen,” McHugh said.

“Everyone is really getting involved and everyone knows their roles, that’s the big thing.

“There’s no one person who’s designated to take the ball up, everyone has a role and knows it and I’m really enjoying it and I get the feeling all the other boys are too.”

While the Roos welcome back former NSW Country Eagles player Mark Baldwin this weekend, there is again a host of players unavailable again and starting prop Will Chaffey is one of those after playing in rounds one and two.

The fact the side is going to change so much from week-to-week is another reason why the likes of Robinson, McHugh and first grade coach Vince Gordon are calling for patience.

However, one positive is the fact the Roos’ depth has shone early on.

“That’s the difference between some of the clubs,” McHugh said.

“You can have a very good first grade side but it slips away and gets a bit light-on for numbers while depth is our strength if we need to call on it.”

Kick-off is at 3.15pm on Saturday.