The Rabbitohs are looking to keep their winning streak going when they take a home game to Cairns to face the struggling Cowboys.
Souths have stormed into third place, courtesy of six straight wins. Their last start saw them dismantle the Eels 42-24, as they flexed their attacking muscles once again, scoring a number of brilliantly executed tries.
Coach Anthony Seibold has named all his representative players to back up, including the three Burgess brothers, who played in Denver. Campbell Graham replaces Hymel Hunt on the wing in their only change from the side that belted Parramatta.
As for North Queensland, their season from hell continues, going down 23-16 to the Warriors last time out, with their 11th loss all but ending their finals hopes.
Lachlan Coote is recalled at fullback for Michael Morgan, who is out for the season with a bicep injury. Antonio Winterstein is recalled on the wing for Javid Bowen, while veteran Matt Scott returns at prop, with Sam Hoare out of the squad.
Prediction
It’s a bit of a trap game, with Souths having plenty of players backing up from rep duties and being due for a loss, however the Cowboys don’t have enough strike power across the park to worry the Rabbitohs.
The Bunnies, at their best, have far too much speed and power against an ageing North Queensland side that have failed to fire on any front this year.
This won’t be a walkover by any means, but it’s hard to see Souths losing, given their draw over the next month gives them a real chance to push for the minor premiership.
Souths by 1-12.
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