The South Sydney Rabbitohs faced the Newcastle Knights in an elimination final on Friday night, but their hopes were dashed in a 20-10 defeat.
This match marked a significant milestone as the Rabbitohs finally played at Allianz Stadium with a complete starting lineup after a four-year wait.
Yet, their aspirations were quickly met with setbacks, culminating in the departure of key players. Cody Walker, who had only missed one game due to suspension, suffered a calf injury in the 31st minute.
With Walker sidelined, the team was forced to rely on Jayden Sullivan and Jamie Humphreys to manage the game while trailing 10-0.
The situation worsened when Alex Johnston, attempting to make a play midway through the second half, injured his groin and also left the field.
South Sydney's struggles were evident from the start. Jermaine McEwen opened the scoring for Newcastle, capitalizing on a kick from Sandon Smith.
McEwen had an outstanding game, supported by a defensive lapse from the Rabbitohs, who allowed him to score unchallenged.
Despite the early deficit, South Sydney held on defensively, only trailing 10-6 by halftime, aided by stellar plays from Jack Wighton and Campbell Graham.
However, a potential equalizer was overturned by a bunker review, confirming that Johnston had knocked the ball on just before Sullivan's try.
With Souths unable to capitalize on their chances, Newcastle struck twice more in the final moments, sealing the Rabbitohs' elimination from the finals.
Despite the favorable predictions for the Rabbitohs' postseason based on their improved form and the return of Latrell Mitchell, the match ended disappointingly.
Mitchell's involvement was limited, marked only by a scuffle with Dane Gagai and a late assist that proved too little, too late.