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18 July 2002 The North Queensland Cowboys have signed South Sydney second rower Paul McNicholas to a two year deal with the club. McNicholas, after returning to the Rabbitohs on their readmission to the National Rugby League, has struggled with form and injury thus far in the 2002 NRL season. With four of Souths big name signings for 2003 set to duel for positions in the back row, the 198cm 115kg McNicholas thought it would be in his own best interests to find another club. Cowboys coach Graham Murray, who has been unable to land Queensland representatives Petero Civoniceva and Carl Webb, likes McNicholas’ size and first grade experience. He’ll be looked at as a leader for the club as they look to make the NRL finals for the first time in 2003. The game has always needed big men in the forwards and Paul adds size to our pack,” said Murray. http://www.ozleague.com/news_article.asp?id=44994 14 July 2002 The little and large of the South Sydney backline yesterday powered their team to a 38-24 NRL win over Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval. Wiry winger Joven Clark, a 75kg dynamo, marked his first grade debut with a try and showed several glimpses of the blistering speed which made him Australian Under-20 track champion last year. Heavyweight five-eighth Owen Craigie, a colossus by comparison at 99kgs, starred for Souths for the second week running. He followed up his 15-point haul against Penrith with 14 more yesterday, scoring a try, set up several others and kicking five goals from seven attempts. Souths moved up past Penrith to 13th spot - one below Wests Tigers - after recording successive victories for the first time since rounds two and three. It was the Tigers' ninth loss in 10 games, but coach Terry Lamb said he wouldn't give up on making the semi-finals. Souths never trailed and it was Craigie who took control of the game as he did against the Panthers. He dummied his way over for a try and set up another one for skipper Andrew King with a stab kick as Souths led 12-0 inside eight minutes before the Tigers had their first possession. "I just hope he fulfils his potential because he's an awesome talent," South Sydney coach Craig Coleman said of former Newcastle and West Tigers player Craigie. He said several people at Souths had worked hard on helping Craigie, especially on the mental side with sports psychologist Paul Smith assisting. http://www.nrl.com.au/s2002/news/static/article_3983.asp HE is the NRL's lightest player but South Sydney winger Joven Clarke yesterday destroyed an opponent 22 kilograms heavier. Making his first-grade debut, the 73kg Clarke dashed past his opponent, the 105kg Wests Tigers winger Lipina Kaufusi, time and again. "It was like David and Goliath," said Clarke. And to cap a fabulous match, Clarke, only a late replacement for the injured Russell Richardson, zipped over in the corner for a 71st-minute try. Clarke wore headgear as the Wests Tigers wore a 14-point defeat in front of a joint venture record crowd of more than 16,000 people at Leichhardt Oval. A professional sprinter before switching to rugby league this year, Clarke could well and truly become one of rugby league's personality players. "It was speed against size out there today," Clarke said. "I was ecstatic to score a try, there was nothing better than doing that on debut." Clarke remains the Australian under-20s 100m champion, having run 10.49 seconds at the ASICS Games at Homebush earlier this year. "Joven certainly had them a bit frightened," said Souths coach Craig Coleman. "We have brought him along slowly, but felt today was as good as any day to bring him into first grade." http://www.dailytelegraph.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,4703542%255E2771,00.html 14 July 2002 Owen Craigie has sparked the South Sydney Rabbitohs to a comfortable 38-24 win over the Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval. A week after leading Souths to victory against Penrith, five-eighth Criagie was again the inspiration for the Rabbitohs as he scored one try, had a hand in several others and kicked five goals in a 14-point match haul. The visitors scored seven tries to five to claim two straight wins for the first time since rounds two and three, while the Tigers lost for the ninth time in 10 games, never seriously threatening the Rabbits. Craigie opened the scoring in the fourth minute with his only try for the day, and four minutes later saw his team to a 12-0 lead when he converted the try to Andrew King that he had set up. The home side briefly hit back with converted tries to Daniel Fitzhenry and Lipina Kaufusi to level the scores after 20 minutes, but Souths substitute Scott Geddes scored just 30 seconds after coming on in the 23rd minute to reclaim the lead. http://www.sportal.com.au/league.asp?i=news&id=28838 South Sydney has defeated the Wests Tigers 38-24 in an entertaining encounter at Leichardt Oval. Souths, in their best performance of the 2002 NRL season, scored two tries in the first eight minutes of play, then managed to keep the tries coming against Wests. Rabbitohs five eighth Owen Craigie continued his fine form of the past few weeks, scoring a try and kicking 5 goals from seven attempts, while Brent Grose finished with a double. Lipina Kaufisi crossed twice for Wests- the loss continuing their slide towards the bottom of the ladder. The home side were unable to build enough pressure on the Rabbitohs, handling errors kept the Tigers camped in their own territory and forced them to make too many tackles. http://www.ozleague.com/news_article.asp?id=44961 REVITALISED five-eighth Owen Craigie again provided the spark for South Sydney as it charged to a 38-24 National Rugby League win over Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval. Craigie, who was the architect of the Rabbitohs win over Penrith last weekend, scored one try, set up several others and kicked five goals to finish with a 14 point haul. The Rabbitohs scored seven tries to five and registered successive victories for the first time since rounds two and three. The victory lifted Souths above Penrith into 13th place but the result almost certainly ended the Tigers finals aspirations. It was their ninth loss in 10 games and they rarely looked like winning today after Craigie scored a fourth minute try and set up another for Andrew King as Souths bolted to a 12-0 lead in the first eight minutes. Daniel Fitzhenry and Lipina Kaufusi briefly lifted the Tigers hopes with tries which got the home team back within four points by the 20 minute mark. However, substitute forward Scott Geddes scored within 30 seconds of coming onto the ground in the 23rd minute and the Rabbitohs never again lost the initiative. Centre Brent Grose scored the first of his two tries to help the Rabbitohs to a 22-8 halftime lead. http://foxsports.com.au/common/story_page/0,5000,4702843%255E5927%255E%255Enbv,00.html THE little and large of the South Sydney backline powered their team to a 38-24 NRL win over Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval. Wiry winger Joven Clark, a 75kg dynamo, marked his first grade debut with a try and showed several glimpses of the blistering speed which made him Australian Under-20 track champion last year. Heavyweight five-eighth Owen Craigie, a colossus by comparison at 99kgs, starred for Souths for the second week running. He followed up his 15-point haul against Penrith with 14 more today, scoring a try, set up several others and kicking five goals from seven attempts. Souths moved up past Penrith to 13th spot - one below Wests Tigers - after recording successive victories for the first time since rounds two and three. It was the Tigers' ninth loss in 10 games, but coach Terry Lamb said he wouldn't give up on making the semi-finals. Souths never trailed and it was Craigie who took control of the game as he did against the Panthers. He dummied his way over for a try and set up another one for skipper Andrew King with a stab kick as Souths led 12-0 inside eight minutes before the Tigers had their first possession. "I just hope he fulfils his potential because he's an awesome talent," South Sydney coach Craig Coleman said of former Newcastle and West Tigers player Craigie. http://www.dailytelegraph.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,4703545%255E5927,00.html 11 July 2002 Talented and hard working back rower Luke Stuart has almost completed Souths’ recruitment campaign for next season by signing on for another two years. “From the moment I arrived at the club this year, I knew I wanted to stay and be a part of the revival,” said Stuart moments after signing his new two year deal. “It’s a great club with great fans and it truly is an honour for me to be here,” he said. “It truly is the people’s club,” he added. According to Stuart, next season is going to be extremely competitive for every position in first grade, especially for back rowers with the signings of Ashley Harrison from the Broncos and Justin Smith from the Dragons. “It certainly is competitive, but that’s just the way I like it. It will bring out the best in me.” But Stuart has not forgotten about his season. “We still have eight games to go and I reckon we can win most of them. I thought we let ourselves and the fans down this year, but we will salvage some pride out of what is left,” he said. As for coach Craig Coleman and C.E.O Paul Dunn, they both agree that the re-signing of big Luke Stuart was a very important part of next year’s build-up. http://www.souths.com.au/news/news.php?ID=89 South Sydney have re-signed back rower Luke Stuart until the completion of the 2004 National Rugby League season. Stuart, who joined five other Sharks players in the exodus to Redfern last year, has been a valuable acquisition for the Rabbitohs in the back row. His hard work in combination with captain Adam Muir, Andrew Hart, and top reserve Shane Rigon, has been a bright spot in South Sydney’s premiership struggle in 2002. The 25 year old had an opportunity to join top five club the Sydney Roosters, but chose instead to remain at Souths and fight for a spot in first grade next season with incoming players Bryan Fletcher, Justin Smith, and Ashley Harrison. "The competition for playing spots will be tough next year with the bulk of the new signings all backrowers," Stuart said on the NRL official website. http://www.ozleague.com/news_article.asp?id=44923 10 July 2002 It was a day of big names for the Rabbitohs yesterday: they signed Queensland three-quarter Chris Walker and selected a member of the Mundine clan for his first-grade debut. After a brief flirtation with the Roosters, Walker yesterday signed a two-year deal with a further season's option with Souths. And the 21-year-old cousin of league-player-turned-boxer Anthony Mundine has been selected for his first-grade debut against Wests Tigers on Sunday. Back-rower or centre Beau Mundine is on coach Craig Coleman's five-man bench. The Rabbitohs have also decided to try yet another player at halfback - Italy representative Nathan DeBartolo - their fifth No7 in seven weeks. http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2002/07/09/1026185045499.html THE cousin of Anthony Mundine will complete an amazing rise to the top grade when he makes his debut for South Sydney this weekend. Beau Mundine, who was playing park football for the Moore Park Magpies only a few months ago, will start from the bench for the Rabbitohs against Wests Tigers. "I could hardly believe it and it's a great honour to be picked," 21-year-old Mundine said. "I only signed a new contract a couple of days ago so it's been a big week for me. Anthony and I are very close but sadly he won't be able to be there -- he's preparing for a fight in Melbourne on Monday." http://foxsports.com.au/common/story_page/0,5000,4675255%255E5927%255E%255Enbv,00.html SOUTH SYDNEY backrower Luke Stuart has re-signed with the Rabbitohs for the next two NRL seasons. The 25-year-old former Shark said he would enjoy the challenge of holding down a starting backrow berth next season alongside the likes of new signings Bryan Fletcher, Justin Smith and Ashley Harrison. The hard-working backrower reportedly ignored overtures from the Sydney Roosters to re-sign with Souths. "The competition for playing spots will be tough next year with the bulk of the new signings all backrowers," Stuart said. "But from the moment I arrived here I knew I wanted to stay. "We owe the fans a few wins, we know we have let ourselves down a bit but we want to salvage this season and look forward to being more than competitive next year." http://www.dailytelegraph.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,4678520%255E5927,00.html 9 July 2002 South Sydney have confirmed this morning that they have secured the services of Broncos player Chris Walker for three years. The deal, which was confirmed only this morning by Rabbitohs Chief Executive Paul Dunn, will see Walker join 6 other key signings for the 2003 season. This now gives the Rabbitohs a squad that can seriously challenge for the semi-finals in 2003 and beyond. Already joining Walker at Redfern in 2003 are Australian secondrower Bryan Fletcher, Walker's Bronco teammate Ashley Harrison, Souths junior Willie Peters, the Tigers Ahmad Bajouri, Justin Smith of the Dragons and the Roosters Mark Minichiello. These signings now offer coach Craig Coleman real strikepower and, more importantly, depth. Add these players to the good performers of this year and the outlook is very positive for the Rabbits. Walker's decision to play with the Rabbitohs was sealed by the fact he had a desire to play with a Sydney based team. He too could see the enormous potential of this club following on the back of the tidal wave of support garnered at the start of the year. http://www.souths.com.au/news/news.php?ID=88 Brisbane Broncos back Chris Walker has signed a two-year deal to play for rugby league club South Sydney. The deal includes an option to play at the club for a third season. The Rabbitohs are also confident of signing Walker's team-mate and brother Shane. Shane Walker is considering a move to Sydney but has not ruled out staying with the Broncos. Chris Walker is the third high-profile player to sign with the Rabbitohs in recent times. Former Test forward Bryan Fletcher and Saint George Illawarra halfback Willie Peters agreed to terms with the club last week. http://www.abc.net.au/news/sport/rugbyleague/2002/07/item20020709113038_1.htm The South Sydney Rabbitohs have confirmed the signing of Queensland State of Origin star Chris Walker until the end of the 2005 NRL season. Walker, who has been in negotiations with the Rabbitohs, the Sydney Roosters and the NSW Waratahs rugby union side, elected to leave the Brisbane Broncos and sign an estimated $240,000 a season deal with Souths. There has also been speculation that Shane Walker, Chris’ elder brother and current Brisbane hooker, will also join the Redfern based club looking to continue its’ dominance of the 2003 NRL free agent market. Souths have now signed seven first grade calibre players for next year and beyond, Walker joining former test forward Bryan Fletcher, Broncos teammate Ashley Harrison, the Dragons Justin Smith and Willie Peters, the Roosters Mark Miniciello, and Wests Tigers flyer Ahmad Bajouri in green and red colours. http://www.ozleague.com/news_article.asp?id=44914 SOUTH SYDNEY finally have the strikepower they have craved after Brisbane centre Chris Walker agreed to terms with the NRL club for next season. Advertisement Walker has finalised a two-year deal with a one-year option with the Rabbitohs, ending protracted negotiations between the two parties. Souths chief executive Paul Dunn said the try-hungry State of Origin centre would give the Rabbitohs the strikepower they have lacked since their return to the NRL. "Chris's signing is very important to our build-up," Dunn said. "His class is self-evident and he knows the way to the try line. "In 56 first grade games, Chris has scored 31 tries." The Rabbitohs have been the most active club in the player market this season, already trumpeting the signing of NSW forward Bryan Fletcher, Walker's Brisbane team-mate Ashley Harrison and St George Illawarra pair Willie Peters and Justin Smith. http://www.dailytelegraph.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,4671505%255E9787,00.html 8 July 2002 Whilst all the headlines surrounding the Rabbitohs recently have been of who we have bought for next year, the current first grade squad gave a gentle reminder that they can play as well with a fighting 23 to 16 victory over the Panthers on Saturday night. Bouyed by the success of the Reinstatement Day celebrations at the Leagues Club, the side travelled to Penrith confident of an upset. Things didn't start well when we lost frontrower Paul Stringer to the blood bin early on following a Scott Sattler high shot. Things got worse minutes later when a Sattler cross field kick was plucked out of the air by winger Chris Hicks and the Panthers were up 4 - 0. A number of promising chances went to deck for the Rabbitohs, with our inability to get to the fifth tackle a major concern. Jason Death was put on report for a high tackle and from the ensuing penalty Big Tony Puletua strolled over through some flimsy defence to make the score 10 - 0 at the break. This, with the aid of a gale, was not the first half performance coach Craig Coleman would have been looking for. Not to be disheartened, the boys started the second half in great fashion. Their try in the 43rd minute was a classic with lead up work from Shane Rigon, Nathan DeBartolo, Adam Muir, Wade McKinnon, and Owen Craigie finally being finished off by winger Brent Grose. A great conversion by Craigie and it was 10 - 6 to Penrith. The next try was perhaps the easiest of Craigie's career as Penrith winger Luke Rooney dropped the ball 5 meteres from his own line and Souths five-eighth strolled over. Penrith hit back through the dangerous Rhyss Wesser, but the Rabbits struck back almost immediately when Craigie crossed for his second after good lead-up work from DeBartolo. http://www.souths.com.au/news/news.php?ID=87 7 July 2002 Souths have celebrated the anniversary of their reinstatement to the NRL with a gutsy 23-16 victory over the Panthers at Penrith Stadium. It is exactly a year to the day since the Rabbitohs were accepted back into the rugby league fold in one of the greatest off-field sporting comebacks and they mirrored that effort tonight by fighting back from 10-0 down at half-time to take the money. Souths fans had to wait until the 45th minute when winger Brent Grose scored for their side to post their first points, but from that point on attack became easy for the red and greens despite running into a fairly significant wind. That try was followed by a terrible error by Panthers winger Luke Rooney from a kick-return which resulted in Rabbitohs five-eighth Owen Craigie scoring the first of his two tries to level the scores up at 10-all. http://www.sportal.com.au/league.asp?i=news&id=28640 South Sydney coach Craig Coleman put Owen Craigie on a diet during the week - but it only made the gifted five-eighth hungrier. So he decided to feast on the Panthers in Saturday night's National Rugby League match at Penrith Football Stadium. Craigie helped himself to 15 second-half points from two tries, three goals and a field goal in a virtuoso display that ensured Souths celebrated the first anniversary of their readmission to the NRL with a memorable 23-16 victory over the Panthers. The Rabbitohs trailed 10-0 at halftime in cold and windy conditions before Craigie warmed to the challenge after the break. He set up winger Brent Grose in the 43rd minute with a clever crossfield run, then posted the first of his tries in the 58th minute to tie the game up at 10-10. He missed the conversion attempt that would have given the Rabbitohs the lead for first time in the match, but he wasn't to be denied in the 70th minute. Craigie collected the ball 10 metres out from the Penrith line, accelerated from a standing start to score in a handy position and slotted the conversion to level the scores at 16-16 just when it seemed the Panthers had regained control. And, after converting Shane Rigon's try soon after to put the Rabbitohs six points in front, Craigie put the icing on the anniversary cake with the match-clinching field goal three minutes from fulltime. http://au.sports.yahoo.com/020707/1/29rm.html The South Sydney Rabbitohs have signed Brisbane Broncos forward Ashley Harrison for the next three years, and have also secured the services of youngsters Justin Smith and Mark Minichiello. 21-year-old Harrison has played more than 50 first grade games since making his debut with the Broncos in National Rugby League season 2000. In that year, Harrison was part of the squad that downed the Sydney Roosters in the season deciding grand final. The Rabbitohs announced Harrison's signing at a special function today celebrating one year since the Rabbitohs won a federal court appeal that paved their way for a return to the senior competition. Harrison, Smith and Minichiello will join fellow new recruits Bryan Fletcher, Willie Peters, Ahmad Bajouri and Nathan Merritt at the Rabbitohs next season. The club is also expected to announce the signing of Broncos centre Chris Walker earlier next week. http://www. A year on from one of the most significant events in South Sydney history, much maligned five-eighth Owen Craigie has given the Rabbitohs the perfect anniversary present with a five-star performance that inspired his team to a 23-16 victory over the Penrith Panthers at Penrith this evening. Trailing 10-0 at half-time and set to run into the breeze in the second half, the red and green troops offered a rousing finish to notch their first win in seven weeks. When winger Brent Grose capitalised on a sharp midfield run by Craigie in the 43rd minute, it became apparent that it was to be Souths' night. The second half of the contest saw the lead change several times, the Panthers having several chances to put the visitors away. Poor ball handling and set completion marred a promising start by the home side, while critical second half errors in the Rabbitoh red zone put paid to chances of collecting the two points. Despite the lack of application shown by the Panthers at several stages throughout the match, a focus on that would be doing an injustice to the gutsy Rabbitohs. A try to lock Shane Rigon and a Craigie double, as well as a try to Brent Grose all came from relentless pressue on the disappointing Penrith side - something that will not escape the attention of beleaguered coach Craig Coleman. Souths' effort tonight was a perfect example of what dedication and motivation can do for a side in need of a win. Judging by this showing, fans will be scratching their heads in wonderment trying to figure out why these performances don't appear more often. At the conclusion of the match the relief and joy etched on the faces of Souths players and fans was apparent, mirroring scenes around the country twelve months ago to the day. Rabbitoh captain Adam Muir and rookie Nathan DeBartolo were put on report for a dangerous throw, while hooker Jason Death and Penrith lock Scott Sattler were reported for high tackles. The victory keeps the Rabbitohs in fourteenth spot in their battle to avoid the wooden spoon. http://nrl.rleague.com/news/index.php?id=7586 Not even the news that prop Duncan MacGillivray is out for the season with cruciate ligament damage could dampen South Sydney's reinstatement day celebrations last night, after the Rabbitohs snatched a late win against Penrith to avoid last place on the premiership ladder. Souths skipper Adam Muir was stretchered from the field after 50 minutes, but it was later revealed that his ankle injury was not serious - however, MacGillivray's is. But with a large band of supporters on hand, Souths were not to be denied, with five-eighth Owen Craigie's 15-point haul steering them home. Despite having a strong wind at their backs in the first half, the Rabbitohs trailed 10-0 at half-time but they piled on four tries to one in the second term to stay ahead of North Queensland at the foot of the table. Craigie's first try came in the 58th minute when he picked a lost ball by Panthers winger Luke Rooney and strolled over - locking the game up at 10-all after he had earlier sent in winger Brent Grose. http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2002/07/06/1025667075963.html IT'S been 12 months since their readmission to the NRL, and the never-say-die South Sydney celebrated in style last night. With five-eighth Owen Craigie playing his best game of the season, the Rabbitohs came from 10-0 down at halftime to record their fourth win of the season. Craigie scored two tries, threw the final pass for another and kicked the match-sealing field goal in the type of dominant performance Craig Coleman has been looking for all season. "We haven't had a win in nine or so weeks, but we worked well all week and all the boys dug deep," Craigie said. Things started tough for Souths, with Penrith second-rower Tony Puletua in menacing touch. He announced himself in the third minute, bursting through Souths captain Adam Muir. A player from each side – Scott Sattler (Penrith) and Jason Death (Souths) – were put on report for high tackles in a scrappy first half. In the second half, Muir and interchange forward Nathan De Bartolo were also in strife for a dangerous throw on Penrith forward Lee Hopkins. The Panthers opened the scoring after 20 minutes, with Sattler the architect. He put a corner bomb for Penrith winger Chris Hicks to out-jump his opposite Nathan Merritt to score. Souths' best chance in the first half came when big centre Russell Richardson made a break, before passing to Merritt who kicked ahead. But Panthers five-eighth Brett Atkinson, a late replacement for the injured Ben Reynolds, cleaned up the danger. The Panthers struck just before the break when Ben Roarty delivered a clever inside pass to Puletua, who swatted off Muir to score. Hicks added the conversion for a handy 10-0 lead as Penrith turned with the wind for the second half. Remarkably, the Rabbitohs also lifted their game running into the strong wind, with tries to Brent Grose and Owen Craigie levelling the scores at 10-all to set up Souths' exciting victory. http://www.dailytelegraph.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,4656807%255E2771,00.html 6 July 2002 South Sydney continued its pillaging of the National Rugby League player market by announcing three more signings - and it hasn't finished yet. The Rabbitohs announced they had secured Brisbane lock Ashley Harrison, St George Illawarra second rower Justin Smith and Sydney Roosters lock Mark Minichiello - the brother of winger Anthony - for next season. The announcement, at a lunch to commemorate 'Reinstatement Day' - one year to the day since the club won back its place in the NRL - comes after the earlier signing of Sydney Roosters forward Bryan Fletcher, Wests winger Ahmad Bajouri and St George Illawarra halfback Willie Peters. And chief executive Paul Dunn said the club was still to add a class centre to its ranks - with Brisbane's Chris Walker its primary target. Cronulla and Queensland centre Chris McKenna and Wests' Kevin McGuinness are also in the club's sights. "We had a plan when we started," Dunn said today. "We're pretty well on target to achieve that and that's all you can do." The Rabbitohs expect to hear an answer from the in-demand Walker by Monday, with the Maroons outside back also the subject of a bid from rugby union. If he rejects Souths' offer - or delays his decision again - Dunn indicated the Rabbitohs would renew their interest in McGuinness, who is hedging on re-signing with Wests. http://au.sports.yahoo.com/020706/1/29m4.html South Sydney have signed three more players for the 2003 National Rugby League season, and are still in negotiations with Maroons representative Chris Walker. The Rabbitohs- celebrating the anniversary of their re-admission into the premiership at a luncheon today- announced the signings of St George Illawarra second rower Justin Smith, Brisbane Broncos utility Ashley Harrison, and young Sydney Rooster Mark Miniciello. Smith, who has excelled for the Dragons with his ball playing ability in the back row, will shift captain Adam Muir into the front row so he can partner former Kangaroo Bryan Fletcher. Harrison, a first grade regular with premiership heavyweights Brisbane, will likely play lock or five eighth in the Rabbitohs line-up, while Mark Miniciello plies his trade in the back row or at hooker. Souths will now shift focus to their final signing priority, Broncos flyer Chris Walker, who is mulling the Rabbitohs offer as well as an approach from the Australian Rugby Union. If the Rabbitohs are unable to get his signature, they will step up negotiations with Cronulla centre Chris McKenna and the Tigers Kevin McGuinness. http://www.ozleague.com/news_article.asp?id=44886 Skilful South Sydney five-eighth Owen Craigie turned on the magic to ensure the Rabbitohs celebrated the first anniversary of their readmission to the National Rugby League in style tonight. Souths trailed Penrith 10-0 at halftime in cold and windy conditions at Penrith Football Stadium, but Craigie warmed to the challenge after the break to spark the Rabbits to a 23-16 victory. It was Souths' first win in seven weeks and only their fourth of the season, but one that helped them avoid slumping to last on the ladder after the completion of round 17. After setting up winger Brent Grose in the 43rd minute with a clever crossfield run, Craigie crossed for the first of his two tries in the 58th minute to tie the game up at 10-all. He missed with the conversion attempt that would have given the Rabbitohs a 12-10 lead and, seven minutes later, the Panthers restored their advantage when Craig Gower put fullback Rhys Wesser over for his 12th try of the season. Chris Hicks' conversion put Penrith 16-10 in front. But Craigie was not to be denied in the 70th minute, collecting the ball 10 metres out from the Penrith line and accelerating from a standing start to score in a handy position. He landed the conversion to level the scores once more. http://www.nrl.com.au/s2002/news/static/article_3890.asp SKILFUL South Sydney five-eighth Owen Craigie has turned on the magic to ensure the Rabbitohs celebrated the first anniversary of their readmission to the NRL in style. Souths trailed Penrith 10-0 at halftime in cold and windy conditions at Penrith Football Stadium, but Craigie warmed to the challenge after the break to spark the Rabbits to a 23-16 victory. It was Souths' first win in seven weeks and only their fourth of the season, but one that helped them avoid slumping to last on the ladder after the completion of round 17. After setting up winger Brent Grose in the 43rd minute with a clever crossfield run, Craigie crossed for the first of his two tries in the 58th minute to tie the game up at 10-all. He missed with the conversion attempt that would have given the Rabbitohs a 12-10 lead and, seven minutes later, the Panthers restored their advantage when Craig Gower put fullback Rhys Wesser over for his 12th try of the season. Chris Hicks' conversion put Penrith 16-10 in front. http://foxsports.com.au/common/story_page/0,5000,4656698%255E5927%255E%255Enbv,00.html South Sydney Rugby League Chairman George Piggins led the Pfizer corporate team to the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge helping to raise $8,000 for Sydney’s disadvantaged youth. The 2GB-873 Corporate BridgeClimb Challenge raised a total of $64,000 for Wesley Mission’s StreetSmart program. Corporate teams donated $8000 each to Wesley Mission in order to climb to the top of the world’s largest arch-span bridge. The teams were led by personalities such as George Piggins, Steve Mortimer, Mike Whitney, Jason Stevens and Deborah Hutton, Brad Fittler and Kosta Tsyzu. http://www.souths.com.au/news/news.php?ID=85 South Sydney is on the verge of withdrawing its offer for Brisbane centre Chris Walker, with the National Rugby League club becoming increasingly frustrated at the protracted negotiations. Rabbitohs chief executive Paul Dunn spoke with Walker's manager Chris Orr again, but is still unsure whether the club will secure his signature. And Dunn said unless the Rabbitohs were able to finalise an agreement on Saturday, it could back off in its quest to sign the speedy Queensland three-quarter. The Rabbitohs have already signed Sydney Roosters forward Bryan Fletcher, St George Illawarra halfback Willie Peters and Wests Tigers winger Ahmad Bajouri, and Dunn will talk with Walker's Brisbane teammate Ashley Harrison in the morning. But Walker, who is also being chased by rugby union, would top off the club's recruitment drive as they look for a try-scoring outside back. "If we don't hear tomorrow I am going to pull the pin on it," Dunn said. "It's very tiring. Either they want to come or they don't." The Rabbitohs were hoping to announce the signing of Walker at a lunch in honour of "Reinstatement Day" - one year since they won their place back in the NRL. However, that goal looks increasingly more distant. "That would be a good place to do it," Dunn said of Saturday's lunch. "It depends on what I hear." Orr was unavailable for comment on Friday. http://onesport.nzoom.com/sport_detail/0,1278,114160-2-19,00.html 5 July 2002 They were the unlikeliest of people to revive a rugby league tradition over 90 years old. Justices Heerey, Moore and Merkel, three Federal Court judges based in the AFL heartland of Melbourne, ruled 2-1 in favour of reinstating South Sydney to the National Rugby League competition, ending two years of exile. That was a year ago on Saturday, and their decision, delivered in an emotionless monotone, sparked emotional scenes among the club's supporters. Since then, the most successful club in the game's history has endured a difficult return to the big time, beginning with a 40-6 loss to the Sydney Roosters in the season-opener and culminating recently in its worst performance of the season, a 44-6 drubbing by Melbourne. In between, Souths have scored three wins and given premiership contenders Parramatta, New Zealand and the Bulldogs almighty scares, but almighty scares don't win competition points. Souths are above only North Queensland on the table after 16 rounds, but that is about where club chairman George Piggins said he expected them to be at this stage of the season. "There's no doubt it would have been nice if we had scored a few more wins," said Piggins, the man whose actions in fighting Souths' expulsion inspired bumper stickers reading "In George We Trust". "It's been a tough 12 months but if we can finish the season with five or six wins I'll be happy." Chief executive Paul Dunn has been there since a week after the court decision and has seen all the highs and lows since the return. "It's been a great learning experience for me," said Dunn. "Running a football club was something I had always wanted to do, so it was good to get the opportunity to do it." "When I got to the club last year we had no players, no phones and only a couple of computers in the office. "But I think we're only a few decent first graders off being a competitive team. "We also have a long-term plan in place that involves us buying some good lower graders and bringing them through for 2004." Souths will be the most active club in the player market over the off-season, with a clean-out expected of some players who are on one-year deals. And this week Souths announced the signing of several players, including St George Illawarra halfback Willie Peters and Roosters second rower Bryan Fletcher, both Souths juniors, and were chasing Brisbane pair Chris Walker and Ashley Harrison. This should help the club's already healthy membership numbers, which currently stand at 23,000, proving that their popularity during the years in the wilderness was not in vain. So where do Souths see themselves in another 12 months? Dunn warns supporters getting excited over the names being bandied around for next season to stay calm. "I think we'll be in a similar position by about this time next year," said Dunn. "Players like (Adam) Muir, (Jason) Death and (Andrew) King are off contract at the end of next year and they'll be getting towards the end of their careers by then, so we'll be in the same position of looking for players." NRL chief executive David Gallop says the return of Souths has also signalled the return of some of the game's disaffected fans. Gallop will be a guest speaker at a lunch to be held at Souths Leagues on Saturday to celebrate the anniversary of the court case. "Souths have captured the passion that has traditionally surrounded our game, but that may have been missing over the last few years," said Gallop. "We welcomed them back to the competition not only for the tradition behind the club but also for the inspiration they've provided to our fans." That inspiration has been tested at times as the club's crowd figures have gradually fallen at each home game. The Rabbitohs began the season with a sellout crowd of 35,316 at the return match against the Roosters but their last home game against Newcastle attracted only 7,828. There is no doubt that such a drop has given ammunition to the considerable number of South Sydney critics within rugby league, but Piggins says that more than anything it is a lifestyle issue. "You've got to remember where we come from," said Piggins. "We come from a working class area, but some of us have been lucky to make a few extra bob and can afford to go the football every week." http://www.nrl.com.au/s2002/news/static/article_3867.asp 4 July 2002 South Sydney is hoping to announce the signing of two more high-profile players today. The free-spending Rabbitohs yesterday confirmed the arrival next season of St George Illawarra halfback Willie Peters, Sydney Roosters Test forward Bryan Fletcher and Wests Tigers three-quarter Ahmad Bajouri. And they are confident of adding Queensland State of Origin duo Chris Walker and Ashley Harrison as they strives to lift themselves out of the premiership doldrums. http://www.nrl.com.au/s2002/news/static/article_3858.asp 3 July 2002 South Sydney coach Craig Coleman will build a new-look Rabbitohs line-up around Willie Peters after signing the highly-rated halfback for the next three National Rugby League seasons. Souths have confirmed the recruitment of Peters and Sydney Roosters Test forward Bryan Fletcher on three-year deals and Wests Tigers three-quarter Ahmad Bajouri for two seasons on as the club strives to lift itself out of the premiership doldrums. The Rabbitohs also re-signed promising junior Nathan Merritt for another year. Souths have struggled to settle on a halfback this season but Coleman, himself a former quality No.7, said he'd hit the jackpot luring Peters, 23, back to Redfern from St George Illawarra. "He'll give us much-needed direction and his kicking game is second to none," Coleman said. "He's very enthusiastic about returning to South Sydney. He is a top-class halfback, he's only 22 or 23 and his best football's ahead of him. "We're going to build our team around Willie Peters." Souths have slipped to equal-last on the table in their first season back in the NRL but chief executive Paul Dunn was confident the club's strong recruitment drive will help the Rabbitohs challenge for a top-eight position in 2003. The Rabbitohs are also confident of signing Queensland State of Origin duo Chris Walker and Ashley Harrison from the Brisbane Broncos. Dunn said the club was hopeful of announcing more good news before the end of the week. http://au.sports.yahoo.com/020703/1/293p.html South Sydney have announced that Australian test forward Bryan Fletcher will wear the red and green for the next three seasons. The Sydney Roosters second-rower refused to take a pay cut to stay at his current club, and the Rabbitohs swooped, signing him to a deal believed to be worth more than $250,000 per season. The Rabbitohs have also signed Willie Peters from St George-Illawarra and Ahmad Bajouri from the Wests Tigers. “These are players with plenty of ability who will fit in perfectly at Souths. There will be a few more signings down the track,” said Souths CEO Paul Dunn. “The players we have bought are an integral part of our plan here at Souths and will be a part of a successful future,” he added. Dunn said that Fletcher will add much needed leadership to the Rabbitohs side, who have experienced a disappointing 2002 season thus far. "Anyone who watched the last State of Origin game would have seen just how much ability he has," he said. http://nrl.rleague.com/news/index.php?id=7542 The South Sydney Rabbitohs has announced the first wave of player signings for next season and beyond. They are Australian and State of Origin back rower Bryan Fletcher, classy half back Willie Peters, hard running winger or centre Ahmad Bajouri and the re-signing of one of Souths’ most promising juniors, speedster Nathan Merritt. “These are players with plenty of ability who will fit in perfectly at Souths. There will be a few more signings down the track,” says chief executive Paul Dunn. Both Fletcher and Peters have signed for the next three years, Bajouri for two and Nathan Merritt has had his contract upgraded for this year and next year. “The players we have bought are an integral part of our plan here at Souths and will be a part of a successful future,” says Dunn. Dunn says that besides his undoubted ability, Fletcher brings a wealth of experience to the team and also leadership. “Anyone who watched the last State of Origin game would have seen just how much ability he has. He had a terrific game,” says Dunn. Of Willie Peters, a Souths junior who began his first grade career thanks to Craig Coleman, Dunn says: “We are excited to have Willie come home and he’s excited to be back. It’s no secret that we have missed the services of an organizer in our team this year and Willie is certainly that. “As for Ahmed Bajouri, he’s a big, strong fellow with heaps of pace and can play on the wing or in the centres.” “Considering where we’ve come from, I am not unhappy at where we are at this stage. http://www.souths.com.au/news/news.php?ID=84 There is a real buzz around the Club at the moment as we prepare for Reinstatemnet day at the South Sydney Leagues Club this Saturday. There are all kinds of activities planned for supporters who come along. Starting at 11:00am, there will be a mini carnival in the carpark outside the club. A jumping castle, face painting, pass the ball competitons, a sausage sizzle and drinks stand will all be operating. Also the giant jersey from the game last Saturday night will be on display with the opportunity for all supporters to sign. Inside the club there is a luncheon planned to celebrate this important day in our history. There are a number of key speakers including George Piggins, Nick Pappas and Alan Jones. A great menu is being put together and at $35 a ticket, places are filling fast. To reserve your spot at the table, contact the club on 9319 4156. A highlight of the day will be the "Fightback Museum". Situated in the Sports Bar, this showcases all the memorabilia that involved the club during our time of exclusion from the competition. From newspaper banners to video footage, a complete history of the time is on display for you to view. There will be buses running out to Penrith Stadium at 3:00pm to watch the Rabbitohs go around that night, or you are welcome to stay in the club and watch Super Saturday on FoxSports. There will be guests and entertainers as well as a host of giveaways. http://www.souths.com.au/news/news.php?ID=83 South Sydney chief executive Paul Dunn says new signings Bryan Fletcher and Willie Peters can help lift the club to the finals next year. Fletcher and Peters signed three-year deals while Wests Tigers back Ahmad Bajouri agreed to a two-year contract. The club is also chasing Brisbane's Chris Walker and Ashley Harrison. Dunn says he expects big things from the team next year. "I think if you look at where we are and where Auckland are I'd like to think that we're only two years behind where the Warriors are in terms of their development, so I'd like to think next year we'll make the eight and the year after, who knows," he said. And Dunn says he would support the NRL restriction on signing players from rival clubs being extended until the end of the season. Under the anti-tampering rules clubs are not allowed to approach players off-contract from rival clubs until July. Dunn says some of the leading clubs are now complaining because they cannot keep all their players. http://www.abc.net.au/news/sport/rugbyleague/2002/07/item20020703130757_1.htm South Sydney has signalled the Rabbitohs re-emergence as a National Rugby League competitor, after acquiring three high profile free agents for the 2003 season. NRL 2002 has brought the Rabbitohs back into the competition, but it has been clear this season that the hardworking Souths outfit is ill equipped to be a top eight contender. The Rabbitohs hope that the signing of Kangaroo second rower Bryan Fletcher, Wests flyer Ahmad Bajouri, and current Dragons half Willie Peters can propel the side into the top half of the competition. Souths have no shortage of first grade talent, but in signing Fletcher they have a bona fide star with extensive World Cup and State of Origin experience. “Anyone who watched the last State of Origin game would have seen just how much ability he has,” said chief executive Paul Dunn on Souths official website. http://www.ozleague.com/news_article.asp?id=44869 SOUTH SYDNEY coach Craig Coleman will build a new-look Rabbitohs line-up around Willie Peters after signing the highly-rated halfback for the next three NRL seasons. Souths have confirmed the recruitment of Peters and Sydney Roosters Test forward Bryan Fletcher on three-year deals and Wests Tigers three-quarter Ahmad Bajouri for two seasons as the club strives to lift itself out of the premiership doldrums. The Rabbitohs also re-signed promising junior Nathan Merritt for another year. Souths have struggled to settle on a halfback this season but Coleman, himself a former quality No.7, said he'd hit the jackpot luring Peters, 23, back to Redfern from St George Illawarra. "He'll give us much-needed direction and his kicking game is second to none," Coleman said. "He's very enthusiastic about returning to South Sydney. He is a top-class halfback, he's only 22 or 23 and his best football's ahead of him. "We're going to build our team around Willie Peters." http://www.dailytelegraph.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,4628517%255E5927,00.html Test second-rower Bryan Fletcher is expected to be the big-name signing for South Sydney today when the NRL club holds a press conference at Redfern. The other players linked to the Rabbitohs are St George Illawarra halfback Willie Peters, Queensland Origin star Chris Walker and Wests Tigers winger Ahmad Bajouri. http://www.nrl.com.au/s2002/news/static/article_3852.asp |
