RABBITOHS v RAIDERS 29/4/2021
Gee, I just wish the Rabbitohs would play for a full 80 minutes.
Once again, this poor old fan boy was left worried about his ticker as a very understrength Raiders' team took a substantial lead in the first half and were still leading 16-14 at half time.
But, at least by half time the Rabbitohs looked threatening, and it didn't take long after the break for them to wrestle back control of the match.
Some enterprising play, with makeshift fullback Cody Walker at the forefront, gave us a substantial 32-20 lead and it looked like we were cruising ... until our bench forward Jacob Host was sent to the sin bin for sweet f...k all - and that 12 point lead wasn't looking so substantial.
Two disallowed Raiders tries and a whole lot of heartache later we had the game in our pockets - 34-20. But, seriously, why does it have to be so hard? Play 80 minutes and games like this are far less stressful for us fans.
Still, you can't criticise seven wins in a row. How good is that?
Benji Marshall had another decent game for Souths, but was guilty of overplaying his hand at times. Half-back and club legend Adam Reynolds cannot be allowed to go to another club - his seven goals from seven kicks was critical. And, edge forward Keaon Koloamatangi made a huge impact in what was a tough match.
I was comforted by the fact that some things in football never change, in this case Canberra coach Ricky Stuart having a king-sized dummy-spit over the two disallowed tries. Ricky, check out the rules mate.
So, onward to the Melbourne Storm at the Olympic Stadium on Thursday. I will be there. Unfortunately I doubt Rabbitohs superstar Cameron Murray will be on the field, having suffered what looked like an ankle injury. My fingers are crossed that it isn't too serious.
We always have trouble with the Storm, but who knows, momentum might be with us this time.
Let's go, Rabbitohs.
