John I Dent Cup: Uni-Norths eager to hit the road for Penrith test

Not just because the Owls have won three on the trot and surged into third on the John I Dent Cup ladder, but also because the club is going on a road trip this weekend.

Four Uni-Norths teams will pile on to a bus early on Saturday morning for the trip to Penrith.

It's the first time the Owls have embarked on the journey this year and Rolfe said plenty of time has been spent ensuring the club returns home with four wins.

"We're focused on ticking those boxes that we're not used to ticking, because the boys haven't done this before," Rolfe said.

"I do think it would've been a tough year for Penrith travelling down every second week. For us, it's something different and we're looking forward to the challenge."

The Penrith first grade side has had a tough first season in Canberra and is yet to win a game. The colts, however, have impressed and sit fourth on the ladder.

Despite the challenges of this year, the Emus are determined to remain in the John I Dent Cup and are optimistic the future is bright.

"It's been awesome," Penrith coach Ronnie Patea said. "We're all learning as the season goes on and the boys are still fighting.

"Hopefully we're welcome back in the comp and we certainly believe that we'll be more competitive in the grades next year.

"Our colts are setting a good platform for us to try and follow that through and keeping those boys at Penrith will be awesome."

Saturday, July 23

Penrith v Uni-Norths at Nepean Rugby Park, 3.05pm

Gungahlin v Queanbeyan at Jamison Oval, 3.05pm

Canberra v Wests at Phillip Oval, 3.05pm

Saturday, July 23

Gungahlin v Queanbeyan at Jamison Oval, 10.55am

Penrith v Uni-Norths at Nepean Rugby Park, 1.40pm

Canberra v Wests at Phillip Oval, 2.15pm

We've made it a whole lot easier for you to have your say. Our new comment platform requires only one log-in to access articles and to join the discussion on The Canberra Times website. Find out how to register so you can enjoy civil, friendly and engaging discussions. See our moderation policy here.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: