LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
South Sydney coach Jason Demetriou has made some tough calls in response to the Rabbitohs' disappointing start to the NRL season.
After suffering consecutive losses to Manly and the Broncos, Demetriou has decided to drop halfback Lachlan Ilias from the team.
In a move that could be seen as a shake-up to ignite the team's performance, Dean Hawkins will take over at No.7 for the upcoming clash against the Roosters.
Demetriou did not hold back in his criticism of the players after the loss to the Broncos, and Ilias has paid the price for the team's lackluster displays.
With Ilias struggling to make an impact in the first two games, fans are hoping Hawkins can bring some much-needed energy to the Rabbitohs' attack.
There have even been whispers of swapping Cody Walker out for Jack Wighton when he returns from suspension in round four.
Despite the changes, captain Cameron Murray has defended Ilias, stating that the blame should not solely fall on his shoulders.
"It's unfair to pin the results on him alone.
We win and lose as a team," Murray emphasized.
As the Rabbitohs gear up for their next game, all eyes will be on how the team responds to these changes and whether they can turn their season around.
With the rivalry against the Roosters heating up, South Sydney will be looking to make a statement on the field.