Round 1 - Broncos vs Rabbitohs: Friday 11th March 8:05pm @Suncorp Stadium

[callmack1]

Rabbitohs NRL Squad for Round 1 vs Broncos: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/08/rabbitohs-nrl-squad-for-round-one-vs-broncos/

First team list for the year is out!!!! How bloody exciting!

It's not quite what I predicted but I am very happy with the team named regardless. The biggest news to note is Taane on the wing. I thought Sauce would be given another chance but I can't argue with dropping him for Taane, a much better choice in my opinion, Mansour has been very disappointing to start a career-defining year. Jaxson gets another shot at left centre which will disappoint some but we need to give him some time to settle in and make a fist of it - which better happen this weekend!

The forward pack is basically as expected with the only change from last year being Arrow onto the starting left edge. Love this change, I think it gives us an even stronger pack than last year. Good to see Captain Cam named, obviously no guarantees he'll play yet but the fact that he's in the frame is a good indication. So we're pretty set in the forwards to start the year!

The bench has two club debutants named in Saliva and Cheeks, can't wait to see them run out in the Red and Green and see how they go! Though Hame would be there but he's not even in the 24-man squad so must be injured sadly.

Al in all, a very strong side to kick off the year and I simply cannot wait to rip in!!!! Lesshhhgoooooo!!

 

[Steenson123]

Demetriou went predominantly with what I selected! 3/4 bench and the same pack. Nicholls deserves to start on what he did last season. The only major discrepancy remains young Paulo. I fear his attitude and tendency to melt and I remind everyone that the Legendary Coach never selected Paulo at centre. Milne I like but no Sele? Is that man blesse again?? And what does the Coaching Staff see in Mansour and Hawkins? Both are slugs and if you want success you must look elsewhere. No offense both good characters but please, do not play them!!

 

[southsport]

Demetriou went predominantly with what I selected! 3/4 bench and the same pack. Nicholls deserves to start on what he did last season. The only major discrepancy remains young Paulo. I fear his attitude and tendency to melt and I remind everyone that the Legendary Coach never selected Paulo at centre. Milne I like but no Sele? Is that man blesse again?? And what does the Coaching Staff see in Mansour and Hawkins? Both are slugs and if you want success you must look elsewhere. No offense both good characters but please, do not play them!!

If Paulo is not performing at left centre he can go to the right wing hence the selection of Milne who will then go to LC.

Sele is apparently injured.
.

 

[callmack1]

A bit of friendly banter ahead of Round 1: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/08/jai-arrow-media-round-one/

"The boys around me make everything so much easier" - Taaffe: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/08/blake-taaffe-media-round-one/

Graham is focused on the Season ahead: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/08/campbell-graham-media-round-one/

"It's been a smooth transition for our coaches" - Cook: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/08/damien-cook-media-round-one/

 

[Steenson123]

Rabbitohs NRL Squad for Round 1 vs Broncos: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/08/rabbitohs-nrl-squad-for-round-one-vs-broncos/

First team list for the year is out!!!! How bloody exciting!

It's not quite what I predicted but I am very happy with the team named regardless. The biggest news to note is Taane on the wing. I thought Sauce would be given another chance but I can't argue with dropping him for Taane, a much better choice in my opinion, Mansour has been very disappointing to start a career-defining year. Jaxson gets another shot at left centre which will disappoint some but we need to give him some time to settle in and make a fist of it - which better happen this weekend!

The forward pack is basically as expected with the only change from last year being Arrow onto the starting left edge. Love this change, I think it gives us an even stronger pack than last year. Good to see Captain Cam named, obviously no guarantees he'll play yet but the fact that he's in the frame is a good indication. So we're pretty set in the forwards to start the year!

The bench has two club debutants named in Saliva and Cheeks, can't wait to see them run out in the Red and Green and see how they go! Though Hame would be there but he's not even in the 24-man squad so must be injured sadly.

Al in all, a very strong side to kick off the year and I simply cannot wait to rip in!!!! Lesshhhgoooooo!!

Personally I think Arrow needs to lift. He is a rep player and needs to become that consistent enforcer with some offloading skill the squad needs. In short, Arrow needs to establish a firm identity: team leader, always there and feared by opponents in terms of making some key plays.

 

[Steenson123]

If Paulo is not performing at left centre he can go to the right wing hence the selection of Milne who will then go to LC.

Sele is apparently injured.
.

From what the evidence has produced thus far Milne performed quite well for Bennett at centre. I recall his great burst v Easts when he knocked past 3-4 of them and set up a score. Milne is one of those players that can emerge from nowhere as a quality starter.

 

[callmack1]

Latrell Mitchell in heated teammate bust-up as tensions boil over at Souths: https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nr...1/news-story/8901bac461c5cc7f5ea4737fe14e3af5

What do we all make of this? I'm not sure how to feel about it. On the one hand, it's not a great sign for team morale. I know it's only two teammates, it was a 'heat of the moment' thing and they're probably all sweet but it's still not the best sign in that regard. On the other hand, it's a great sign for the teams attitude as a whole and how hungry we are. There was obviously a bit of feeling in that session and it was played with real passion which is a fantastic indication!

If you watch the vision, there's not much in it at all. Just a media beat up. And I'm sure stuff like this happens elsewhere and within all the time, we just don't hear about it because it doesn't involve Trell.

However, I do think Trell needs to settle a bit. I admit that he shouldn't be losing it over something minor like that. One thing I will say is that from what I've seen of Latrell over the Pre-Season, he is angry. Angry and ready to explode. That should sound warning sirens for opposition teams IF, and sometimes with Latrell that is a big if, he can stay on the field. I'm backing him to get it right.

Personally I think Arrow needs to lift. He is a rep player and needs to become that consistent enforcer with some offloading skill the squad needs. In short, Arrow needs to establish a firm identity: team leader, always there and feared by opponents in terms of making some key plays.

Agreed. I think he showed some good signs of that in the Charity Shield.

 

[The Mad Hatter]

Was that it?
Lol

 

[callmack1]

If you're concerned about the Latrell vs Host incident, don't be. Both had banter about it on Instagram debating who won the fight, saying it must have been a slow news day and even shared an 'I love you' to each other haha.

 

[callmack1]

Rabbitohs Insider 2022 Round 1: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/09/rabbitohs-insider-2022-round-1/

Handshake after 'big dog' clash confirms no bad blood at Souths but Latrell 'has to be careful': https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nr...e/news-story/84546f4818358206dfad0f50af358206

'Block out the noise' - Inglis' advice for Reynolds replacement as star backs Bunnies young gun to shine: https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nr...s/news-story/3896d0c533ef153690a7cabcc57cb97b

'Think they go backwards' - Legend's fear for Souths after four key departures: https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nr...l/news-story/dea62cc0712d12b3abe8f96e58d47ad7

Keaon Koloamatangi focused on Rabbitohs despite first taste of Origin camp: https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/nrl-20...abbitohs/a878772f-66af-4097-9ccf-20844ede1568

 

[Rabbits20]

 

[callmack1]

"We've got to build our Season again." - Demetriou: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/10/weve-got-to-build-our-season-again---demetriou/

Man I am just so impressed by what I've seen from JD so far!!! I hope I can still say the same by the end of the Season and I see know reason why that won't be the case. Love this man as head coach already!

Also good to hear Taaffey is good to go! Sent a bit of a scare through camp today.

Rookie Reflections - Blake Taaffe: https://www.nrl.com/news/2022/03/10/rookie-reflections-blake-taaffe/

Also, from Sporting News,

Sam Burgess delivers heartfelt speech to new Rabbitohs captain Cameron Murray

Sam Burgess - fresh off being cleared by the NRL and allowed to return to an official role - has done the honours in handing new South Sydney captain Cameron Murray his jersey for round 1.

The 33-year-old was cleared of domestic violence allegations last week, but was hit with a huge fine from the NRL over a string of incidents during and after his playing career.

Burgess has now been cleared to return to coaching with the Rabbitohs, although it doesn't appear as though he will be taking on an official role this season.

But that hasn't stopped Souths from involving their legendary former captain, who was the hero of the 2014 grand final triumph and one of the club's greatest-ever players.

With the Bunnies' season opener against Brisbane looming, Burgess was a special guest at training and presented Murray with his No.13 jersey for the clash and gave a touching tribute the local junior.

“I just want to start with a story about Cameron, when I first met him when he was about 17 I think," Burgess said.

"I remember one of the first times I met him, we were doing a work class on mental strength, what it is and what it means.

"I’ll never forget the intrigue in Cameron in mental strength and we were sort of disagreeing with (Michael) Maguire at the time.

"I’ll read you the definition – it’s a measure of an individual, the resilience and confidence that may predict success in sport or education…also being able to cope with negative emotions in a healthy way.

"I think from six years ago to now, you’ve pretty much answered those questions yourself about what mental strength is, what it should mean and what it means to you.

"Leadership for me was always not about the title or anything else – it was more about the spirit and the team.

"With you, I found the most powerful leadership is doing – what you do, you can ask others to do.

"I couldn’t think of anyone better, you’re a great bloke. It’s a hard and lonely place at times, but it’s the most rewarding place as well.

"Find your companions, find your other leaders – Cody, Latrell, Cookie – lean on them when you need to.

"I’m always there for you, but it’s your time now - take it over."

Murray had been spoken about as a potential captain since making his debut with the Rabbitohs back in 2017.

The 23-year-old has since represented NSW and Australia, and thanked Burgess and the club for allowing him the privilege to lead out the 21-time premiers this year.

“I’ve probably said enough to be honest – I’m not really big on talking too much as you already know," Murray said.

"I’m just keen to get out there and prove to everyone here, prove to myself, prove to the coaches that I’m ready for this role and ready for 2022.

"Thanks Sam, it obviously means a lot coming from someone I’ve looked up to since I can remember.

"Let’s go get them tomorrow."

 

[callmack1]

Captain's Run: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/10/captains-run/

 

[callmack1]

Rabbitohs 19-Man Squad for Round 1: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/10/rabbitohs-19-man-squad-for-round-one/

'The three wise men didn't rate him' - Wayne fires shot at Broncos over Demetriou snub: https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nr...s/news-story/72232b9383919a97b5c32fb8c0ef0962

 

[Inkers75]

First game of season, I'll be listening in UK on ABC radio.

Souths to win by 10.

 

[callmack1]

Well here we are. Here we finally are and here we finally go. After a long, hard Pre-Season of blood, sweat tears, hard work, fine tuning, intense training and Grand Final heartache, it's finally time to officially get a new Season underway. It feels so surreal to be saying this but that's right, it's game day of Round 1 2022!!! It's Round 1 and the dawn of a new Season is finally upon us. A new era, new hope, new challenge, same goal. That all begins tonight as we take on the Broncos up there at Suncorp Stadium.

It wasn't the case a few years ago but playing the Broncos is now a real grudge match. I don't need to go into what happened to cause that, we all know but the fact remains that the feeling in this one is always there and it's real. At least, for me anyway. I really feel it and I hate the Broncos, it's a great rivalry. That feeling has only been increased by one of our past favourite legends leaving our great club and jumping ship to them. This was supposed to be our first game against him but it wasn't to be. Nevertheless, this is still a blockbuster, a cracker of a match to open the Season.

I'm not really sure what to expect from Brisbane tonight as I'm sure a lot would have changed for them but despite the guys they have missing, I can tell you it's not going to be an easy game. We're going to have to work for it and earn it if we want to win. We go in as favourites but that means nothing. They have plenty of threats that we need to shut down and limit. The biggest of which are Kotoni Staggs and Payne Haas. I think Staggs in particular is the key for the Broncos, he's going up against Paulo so they may see that as a weakness. Jaxson has to stand up and combat that tonight along with the rest of the left edge. Aside from that, the Broncos do have a decent forward pack lead by Haas so if we can shut them down and get on top of their pack, it will go a long way to winning, particularly when they're missing Reynolds.

For us, it's the start of a new era. A big new era. Round 1 2022 signifies the official beginning of the Jason Demetriou era. It's also the beginning of the post-Adam Reynolds era and the beginning of the Captain Cam era. Let's hope these era is glorious! So yea, it's a big night for us tonight but we cannot let the occasion get to us. We have a job to do and it's so, so important to start 2022 off with a win. In fact, considering who we play in the next three weeks, this game is a must win. I'm not saying we can't beat those other sides in the coming weeks, I'm just saying we'd be a lot more comfortable going into them if we were to win tonight so that's crucial. As I said, it's not going to be easy and we can't go out there expecting to be the same team we were in last year's Grand Final. As JD has said, we have to build again. Therefore, tonight is all about ball control, completing your sets and building pressure. That's what everyone strives for in Round 1 and we need to execute it. Our trial form wasn't great but I'd like to see us go out there tonight and make a bit of a statement. Can we do it? Time will tell.

I'm breathing fire today!! So, so pumped!! The beginning of our Season is not far away. Not long until we take over Brisbane. Lesssgoooooo!!!!

 

[Rabbits20]

Well Rabbitohs members and supporters here we are we’ve been waiting a long time for this and here we go again season 2022 is here and a new era too it is exciting. There is not really a better way to begin than playing Friday Night footy a big game a big atmosphere up at Suncorp. It’s a bit of shame that we won’t get to see Reyno tonight but the more I think about it we should’ve had a chance in Sydney to farewell Reyno and have the round 1 game so the fact he will first play against us now in round 9 back at Homebush is fitting. Anyway for us I can’t wait to see how young Ilias goes I was very impressed with him last year in round 25 and in the CS and I’m looking forward to watching him grow and making the 7 his own. First game as captain tonight for Cam I have no doubt he’s going to be an inspirational leader for us the next decade we are in good hands. I’m keen to see Milne onto that wing as well I think he is a better player than Mansour and better at the shit work carries coming out of yardage. It’ll all start up front though we need to match them in the middle and that’ll go a long way towards winning and allowing Cody to do his thing. We also need Cookie to stand up and find that running game. Arrow needs to play bigger mins this year and I hope we see that starting tonight on edge then moving to middle. Also Havili and Chee Kam in their first games as Rabbitohs will want to do well.

Looking at Brisbane they’ve got a few out but we can’t take them lightly. Haas, Carrigan and Capewell will get them rolling forward and are dangerous. Then that gives A. Kelly and Walters the chance to play off the back of it so across the park we need to be switched on. Then of course there is the threat of Staggs out wide we all know how lethal can be we need to negate him as much as possible but that is easier said than done. Brisbane will start strong so we need to match them in intensity.

Looking at our next few games to come we have very hard ones so I put tonight in the must win category. Lets use that pain of the GF last year to drive us we can’t just expect things to happen though as JD said yesterday we need to start again afresh and do all those little things high completions, good discipline good line speed etc..

SO RABBITOHS MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS WHETHER YOU LIVE IN BRISBANE AND ARE HEADING OUT OR YOU ARE FLYING UP FOR THE GAME OR WHETHER YOU ARE AT HOME IN SYDNEY OR OVERSEAS EVERYONE ON YOUR FEET TONIGHT JUST BEFORE 8:05PM SHOW THE COLOURS CLAP YOUR HANDS SCREAM YOUR LUNGS OUT! LETS GO RABBITOHS
LETS START 2022 OFF IN STYLE AND GET THOSE 2 POINTS!!! GLORY GLORY!!!


SOUTH SYDNEY CLAP CLAP CLAP

SOUTH SYDNRY CLAP CLAP CLAP

SOUTH SYDNEY CLAP CLAP CLAP

 

[BotanyBorn&Bred]

With Paulo in the centres, I hope he's not lining up opposite Staggs.
And if he is, I hope he doesn't get torched.
Rabbitohs Rule OK!

 

[southsport]

With Paulo in the centres, I hope he's not lining up opposite Staggs.
And if he is, I hope he doesn't get torched.
Rabbitohs Rule OK!

Last that I can remember is that Staggs played on the right and I expect Paulo to be on the left so they should be marking up on each other.

Interesting to see if Taaffe is good to go, there's a whisper that he may not be right.
.
.

 

[callmack1]

From one Captain to another: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2022/03/11/from-one-captain-to-another/

'I've never looked back' - How Doueihi helped lure Ilias from rival code: https://www.rabbitohs.com.au/news/2...ow-doueihi-helped-lure-ilias-from-rival-code/

The butterflies are building for me that's for sure.