LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Roosters have ignited further rivalry with the Rabbitohs by reportedly signing one of their most promising juniors. Just weeks after the Rabbitohs raised concerns with NSWRL officials regarding the Roosters' potential poaching of their young talent, their worst fears have materialized.
The Daily Telegraph is reporting that 17-year-old sensation Keone Anitelea-Tsioussis has switched from the Rabbitohs to the Roosters, marking a significant signing for the Chooks. Anitelea-Tsioussis is touted as "South Sydney's most exciting rookie since Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii" and has showcased his skills as a halfback, five-eighth, and lock in junior competitions.
The talented teenager captained the Rabbitohs' Harold Matthews Cup team at the Under-17 level this year, leading them to a preliminary final. He also has experience in the NSW Waratahs' elite pathways system but has chosen to concentrate on league over union.
Anitelea-Tsioussis is so valued that the Rabbitohs had recently reassured fans of their efforts to retain him. Souths stated: "The Rabbitohs are working towards securing the services of Anitelea-Tsioussis for the years to come. Anitelea-Tsioussis is a natural leader, a true professional with a complete and well-rounded game to match, including his ability to run, pass and kick."
The young player's transfer mirrors the earlier move of Suaalii, who also left South Sydney for the Roosters before eventually making the switch to rugby union to play for the Wallabies.
The departure of Anitelea-Tsioussis follows the Rabbitohs' recent grievance concerning the Roosters' tactics. Souths expressed their discontent about the Roosters using Matraville Sports High School for their junior representative team training.
While the Roosters have utilized the school grounds for 15 years, the Rabbitohs are calling for their rival's removal since Matraville is within South Sydney territory. There are concerns that the Roosters' presence could lure homegrown Souths juniors to Bondi by training in such close proximity.