The Rabbitohs’ Struggle and the Possibility of a Comeback
The pressure is on for the South Sydney Rabbitohs as they prepare to face the Gold Coast Titans this Sunday. No team wants to end up with the wooden spoon, which is the least coveted prize in the NRL. This motivation could be crucial for both the Rabbitohs and the Titans as they look to avoid finishing at the bottom of the league table.
While the Rabbitohs are currently in a tough spot, they are not alone in their struggles. The Knights, Eels, and Cowboys are also in the danger zone, but history shows that finishing last doesn’t always mean disaster. In fact, many teams have bounced back quickly after a wooden spoon. Of the 27 teams that have finished last since the NRL era began, it typically takes about 2.78 years for them to return to the finals.
There are exceptions, such as the Magpies from 1998 and 1999, who were folded into the Wests Tigers, and the 2002 Bulldogs and 2010 Storm, who were relegated due to salary cap breaches. However, even without these cases, several teams have made a remarkable recovery. For example, the 2001 Panthers and 2014 Sharks went from last place to the top in just two years. On the other hand, some teams like the 2011 Titans and the 2012 Eels needed five seasons before making it back to the playoffs.
South Sydney has been one of the most disappointing teams this season, yet they are also seen as a hard-luck story. They are underdogs in their upcoming match against the Titans, who have had some recent upsets, including beating the Warriors and nearly taking down Penrith. Wayne Bennett’s return to Redfern was already hampered by an injury to skipper Cameron Murray, who suffered an Achilles tear during pre-season training.
Murray has become a key figure for the Rabbitohs, acting as their main attacking threat and a calm leader for a team that can sometimes be emotionally volatile. With so many injuries this season, Bennett has had to use 35 players across 20 rounds. Players like Latrell Mitchell, Cody Walker, and others have been sidelined, impacting the team’s performance.
Even the mid-season signing of Brandon Smith hasn’t gone smoothly. The former Roosters hooker lasted only one match before suffering a knee injury. Smith and Mitchell are both expected to return this Sunday, which would be a significant boost for the Bunnies.
Another challenge for the Rabbitohs has been the signing of Lewis Dodd. The English halfback has struggled throughout the season, leading to his eventual release at the end of the year. His poor performances, including a 60-14 loss to the Broncos, have made it clear that he is not the solution the team needs. It’s unlikely any other NRL club will want to sign him, even if the Rabbitohs offer to cover part of his contract.
The decision to let go of Adam Reynolds in 2022 has also come back to haunt the Rabbitohs. Reynolds has since reached a grand final with the Broncos, while his replacement, Lachlan Ilias, has struggled at the Dragons. This move has raised questions about the club’s decision-making.
Despite the challenges, there is still hope for the Rabbitohs. If they can avoid the wooden spoon this season, they might have a chance to climb up the ladder next year. With players like Murray, Mitchell, and Koloamatangi, the team has the potential to make a strong comeback. However, time is running out for the current squad, and the future of coach Wayne Bennett remains uncertain.
With the current roster facing the end of their careers, the Rabbitohs may need a major overhaul to return to the top of the league. A fresh start could be the key to their long-term success.