LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The rivalry between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Sydney Roosters, regarded as the fiercest in the NRL since 1908, has seen growing animosity over the years.
This long-standing feud, marked by grand finals, player poaching, and territorial disputes over junior ranks, has created a palpable hatred between the two clubs for over a century.
As the two teams gear up for their latest encounter on Friday night, where they will compete for the Ron Coote, the tension is brewing anew. The Rabbitohs have accused the Roosters of attempting to "cannibalise" their junior ranks, adding fuel to an already heated rivalry. Additionally, Brandon Smith will be going up against his former team, with a loss likely jeopardizing the Roosters' chances of making the NRL Finals.
This match is also significant for childhood friends Hugo Savala and Tallis Duncan, who will face each other on the field for the first time in the NRL. "He was probably my closest friend growing up. I was always at his house," Duncan shared with Zero Tackle.
The two friends, who attended South Coogee Primary School together, will undoubtedly experience a mix of emotions as they take the field. Despite their daily conversations, there will be no affection shown once the whistle blows on Friday night.