LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Trent Robinson embraces the intense rivalry between his club and the Rabbitohs, adding excitement to the ongoing feud that has persisted since 1908. As they prepare for a crucial match on Friday night, the stakes involve not just the battle for Anzac Parade and junior talent but also the control over Allianz Stadium and shared training fields. South Sydney is poised to challenge the Roosters as the finals approach, despite having little leverage to gain.
Unlike many coaches who might downplay such animosities, Robinson revels in the rivalry, allowing his players to fully engage without the fear of retribution as finals loom. He acknowledges that events surrounding stadiums and facilities have only deepened the competitive spirit between the two teams, asserting that "there have been some things above me that have happened when it comes to stadiums and training facilities and stuff like that, and that's the beauty of the rivalry."
He highlights that while there's palpable "hate and anger" associated with it, there's also a community aspect, where fans of both teams coexist as "next-door neighbours." Robinson emphasizes that the unique blend of animosity and camaraderie is what makes the rivalry special, stating, "It stems from that loving relationship where you're next-door neighbours to the real spicy bit at the other end. That's the beauty of the rivalry since 1908."
Rivalries like this are well-recognized in global sports, akin to the intense relationships seen in the NFL between the Steelers and Robinson's Ravens, or the Manchester derby in the English Premier League. However, in the NRL, the Roosters and Rabbitohs rivalry stands out as one of the fiercest in Australian rugby league.