Penrith Rams hopeful of division one title

PENRITH Rams officials are confident of their first Division One premiership this year.

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PENRITH Rams officials are confident of their first Division One premiership this year.

The club entered the competition for the first time in 2012 but were knocked out in the elimination final.

Craig Sharp, who took over as head coach halfway through last season, said he was eager to win the flag.

"Last year we lacked depth, this year I believe we've got the depth needed," Sharp said.

"There was a big gap between our first division and fourth division sides but now that we have a third division team it will make a difference whenever we need to bring a player in, because they are one level higher.

"Dale Chivas has left us to join the army, which is a big loss.

"But we have Tim Cummins and Jimmy Denton coming back, as well as a few under-18s players making the step up.

"We've got a really good mix of young and experienced players and it is really a matter of us moulding them into a team."

Former first grade coach Geoff Payne has been named assistant coach to Sharp.

"Geoff Payne and I have been working together for several years, switching between the coach and assistant coach based on availability," Sharp said.

"We understand how each other work, which will be a bonus."