There was certainly a lot for the young Corellas to learn from their second round Kerry Chikarovski Cup clash as they succumbed 43-0 to an experienced Rays squad.

Former Bathurst Bulldogs coach Burgess said the Corellas can be proud of their efforts against a Rays team who knew their combinations inside and out.

“They did really well, went out there and did what was asked of them. They never stopped trying and it was only a few late tries that blew the score out,” he said of the Country women.

“There were just a couple of those 10 to 15 minutes lapses where we let them get away from us.”

Player availability was an issue for Burgess as he was putting his side together for the round two game at Goulburn.

The Corellas were hoping to bounce back from a 49-7 loss to the Sydney Rams in the opening cup game but it was always going to be a difficult task with a team unfamiliar with each other and the 15-a-side game.

“It was about giving some the younger girls in the region an opportunity to play at that level too. Teagan Miller from Bathurst was in the team and so was Steph Lennon, another Central West player,” Burgess said.

“A lot of the team are more used to playing sevens so playing with 15-a-side positions is a big step up. I was hopeful though that we could still put on a good show.

“They were all a really good group to coach. Mel Waterford came down to help us out and Louise Burrows from the Wallaroos was up from the ACT to play for us. They all seemed to really enjoy it. Everyone out there got plenty of game time.

“When trying to put together a team I got in contact with Angus McDonald, the development officer in Dubbo, and he put forward a few girls to get a bit of experience.”

Burgess said NSW Country will look to pencil in the matches again for next season and aim to take it to the Sydney clubs.

“We’re hoping to be in it again,” he said.

“It’s something we can earmark for next year and hopefully be a little bit more prepared for.”