LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Interim South Sydney coach Ben Hornby has come out swinging against claims that Wayne Bennett has been meddling behind the scenes ahead of his return to the club next year.
Hornby, who took over the reins from Jason Demetriou when it looked like the Rabbitohs were headed for the wooden spoon, has guided his team to five straight wins and within striking distance of the top eight.
"It's a bit disrespectful," Hornby said of the rumors swirling around Bennett's involvement.
"We've been putting in the hard yards, and it's not just me - the players and the rest of the staff have been instrumental in the turnaround."
Despite the whispers of Bennett's influence, the players are adamant that it's Hornby calling the shots and leading them to victory.
With a must-win clash against the Dolphins looming, the Rabbitohs are focused on continuing their winning streak and proving that they are a force to be reckoned with.
"We've got the eyes on the prize and we're not going to let anything distract us," said one unnamed player.
"Hornby has been a true leader for us and we're ready to show the competition what we're made of."