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Can the Rabbitohs achieve an undefeated season?

Until the Rabbitohs cut out the mistakes and play as a unit, they aren't winning too many games in 2017. (AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts)
Roar Guru
23rd March, 2015
51

The South Sydney Rabbitohs are one of the biggest and well-known clubs in the NRL.

They’ve won the most first-grade premierships (21) and the second most minor premierships (17) in the history of Australian Rugby League.

Their early season form suggests they’re a team that can produce something special: an undefeated season.

If the Rabbitohs were to achieve this, they would become the first team to do so since St George achieved the feat in 1959.

A factor working in their favour is that the Rabbitohs have accomplished this before. In 1925 under the leadership of skilful five-eighth Alf Blair. However, back then the regular season was comprised of 10 games compared to the 24 played today.

In 2015, South Sydney have already amassed a monumental 52-point differential after three games, which has consisted of a 36-6 thumping of the Brisbane Broncos in Round one, a tight eight-point win over cross-town rivals Sydney Roosters in Round two and a comfortable 14-point victory over the Wests Tigers last Sunday.

These results prove that South Sydney can not only score points, but can also save points from going up against them. Their defence has been exceptional under the guidance of coach Michael Maguire.

With a winning record of around 70 percent over his South Sydney tenure, it’s hard to question his ability as one of the best coaches in the NRL.

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Even with the loss of powerhouse utility man Sam Burgess, who made the move Rugby Union at the start of the season, South Sydney have already flexed their premiership muscle with a strong showing of solidarity towards the task of achieving back-to-back first-grade premierships.

The signings of both Tim Grant and Glenn Stewart have proven, and will continue to prove instrumental in what South Sydney achieve this season.

Young playmaker Adam Reynolds has cranked his game up a notch to become one of the most dangerous and complete halfbacks in the NRL. Combine this with the emerging talent of Luke Keary and the Rabbitohs have one of the best halves combinations going around.

Additionally, the freakish ability of South Sydney’s fullback Greg Inglis, and all-round play from barnstorming prop George Burgess, further highlight the current depth and good health of the Rabbitohs playing roster.

Should the key individuals of their squad remain healthy, I wouldn’t write off their chances. I will however, become red-faced if Eels, Bulldogs or Cowboys upset them over the coming weeks.

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