Country Rugby League CEO Terry Quinn said he was confident that a vocal country crowd in Port Macquarie would play a big part in the team’s performance.

He backed the Country fans to add to the atmosphere of the night.

“We are looking forward to working with the local teams in Port Macquarie and surrounds to ensure this game benefits Rugby League in the area, both financially and through registration numbers, for years to come,” Quinn said.

“The Country Rugby League would also like to recognise the efforts of Port Macquarie Council, and thank them for their hard work and sponsorship of what will be a wonderful week”

Quinn said the Country team was sure to boast a mix of the young, exciting, and seasoned stalwarts of the game, and, for the third time, would be coached by past Country Origin player Laurie Daley.

He said the team would go into camp in Port Macquarie on Monday, May 3, and take part in promotions and events throughout the week.

There will be two curtain-raisers to the main game on May 7.

First up will be a round one match of the CRL Senior Regional Championships between the Northern Thunderbolts and the Central Hunter Power, followed by the final of the CRL under-18s championships.