However, a late resurgence including two crucial wins over Condobolin and Canowindra in the past fortnight has seen the side scrap their way back into knockout contention.

Backing up from their four-point win over the Rams at home, the Tricolours produced arguably their best performance since last year’s away win over Temora to down the Pythons in a 49-35 classic at The Oval.

“That was one of our best victories of the year,” first-year coach Mark Elia said.

“We only had 15 blokes plus one substitute on the day and we ended up playing really well.”

The 14-point win keeps Cootamundra’s title dreams alive and Elia knows his side is lucky to still be in the frame for finals.

“If you look back to the start of the year, we’re pretty fortunate to be where we are right now,” he said.

“It’s cliched to say but I guess we’ve got nothing to lose from here.”

The Tricolours are the masters of their own destiny this weekend and will qualify for the upcoming finals series with an upset win West Wyalong on Saturday.

The Weevils got the better of Cootamundra last time around, emerging 25-13 victors at the Country Club Oval, but there’s plenty to like about the Tricolours’ chances this weekend.

“We had a close match against West Wyalong when we played them here ... but I’m confident in saying we’ve definitely improved since then,” Elia said.

“They were pretty strong in the forwards and they kept it tight and played smart rugby, so we know we’re going to have to match them at least in the pack.

“But we’ve scored a few tries recently and we’re still a good chance, so we’ll just go for it.”

Skipper Corey Nicholson and pivot Matt Berkrey will be among those unavailable for the trip to Weevil Park.