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Full speed ... Souths and Penrith prove that the tackles aren't any softer in the trials. Photograph: Nathan Edwards / The Sunday Telegraph
Souths 38 def Penrith 4
SOUTH Sydney chief executive Shane Richardson last night declared John Sutton the key to the club's fortunes this year.
In a match played in horrible conditions, Sutton signalled he was set to live up to his potential by playing a role in almost every one of the Rabbitohs' tries.
Souths annihilated Penrith 38-4 in Coffs Harbour, with new buy Rhys Wesser scoring against his former club.
But Richardson was taking great heart from the way Sutton controlled the match.
"He was outstanding, absolutely outstanding,'' Richardson said.
"He set up five or six tries and really looked comfortable within himself.
"I think we're all hoping he can take that next step and after tonight it looks like he will. I thought Rhys was also impressive, he played like the old days.''
Despite the impressive scoreline, Richardson said the Rabbitohs wouldn't be getting carried away.
"Look, they had a young side,'' Richardson said of the Panthers.
"We were strong tonight, but it wasn't about the scoreline.
"We just wanted to take a step forward as a group and I think we did that.
"We now look forward to the Charity Shield in two weeks with the plan to again take another step forward.''
For the Panthers, Junior Moors suffered an ankle injury in the opening half and played no further part in the game.
SOUTH SYDNEY 38 (F Talanoa 2, I Luke, R Wesser, J Sutton, S Corrigan, J Simpson, C Best, S McPherson tries; C Sandow goal) PENRITH 4 (J Tia Kilifi try).
http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/sport/nrl/story/0,26799,25056277-5006066,00.html
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