LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett is facing increasing pressure to retain Jye Gray in the No.1 jersey for the rest of the season following Latrell Mitchell's effective position switch during the recent match. Mitchell played a significant role in invigorating the South Sydney Rabbitohs' attack during their victory over the Gold Coast Titans.
Bennett typically places Mitchell in the No.1 position when he is fit, but due to injuries, he opted to have Mitchell play in the centers against the Titans. This decision proved beneficial, as Mitchell assisted in setting up a crucial try for Alex Johnston, contributing to the team's 20-18 win.
This victory allowed the Rabbitohs to surpass the Titans in the rankings, leaving the Gold Coast team fighting to avoid the wooden spoon in the upcoming crucial games. Bennett now faces a dilemma: should he continue with the current winning lineup or revert Mitchell back to fullback?
Gray showed impressive form against the Titans, racking up 181 running meters and adding vitality to the Rabbitohs' gameplay after recovering from an injury that sidelined him since round 15. His return has positively impacted the team.
Leading NRL commentator Andrew Voss argues that Bennett should keep Gray at fullback, noting that team performance is statistically better with Gray in that role. According to NRL.com.au, the Rabbitohs have won five out of twelve matches when Gray has played at fullback this season, compared to just two out of seven games with Mitchell in that position.
While both players have unique skills, Voss believes the Rabbitohs perform more cohesively with Gray at fullback and Mitchell in the center. "I said it at the start of the year. Remember at the start of the year when Latrell wasn't there, Souths were winning games," he mentioned on SEN Radio, emphasizing Gray's crucial role in the team's dynamics. "I just think Jye Gray, in that particular side, is the energiser bunny. I think he is a first grader and his only position is fullback."