After taking out the Knights Knockout last week at Hunter Stadium, Newcastle, the open side will face a greater challenge in Sydney on Monday.

But, coach Jay Shepherdson is positive his boys – aged between 10 and 12 years – can prevail on the big stage.

“We beat Stockton 18-0 at Newcastle; it was quite a good game,” he said.

“Denman led 10-0 at the break and we ended up scoring four tries to nil.

“That was a big effort in itself.”

Tries to Luke Smith and Daniel Blackburn placed Denman in the box seat at half-time, while Brody Holstein and Brock Greacen touched down in the second period to put the icing on the cake.

“Brock, our front-rower, carved them up,” Shepherdson said.

“He also walked away with the man of the match honours.”

Denman, as the Knights’ representatives in the tournament, now tackles Illawarra, Parramatta and Group 2 at Penrith next week.

“I think we’re in with a great chance,” Shepherdson said.

“We need to win the three pool games to advance to the semi and final, which will take place at St Marys.

“I’m fairly confident we’ll put in a big showing.

“Denman boasts a very good side – two team members recently went to the state selection trials.

“The boys have also won every carnival they’ve contested this year, except one game against Scone.

“If they play to their potential, I’m sure we’ll be fine.”