South Sydney Rabbitohs powered home in the second half to secure a convincing 30–10 victory over the Kaiviti Silktails in a physical and momentum-swinging contest.
The Silktails struck first and looked dangerous early, but the Rabbitohs’ superior execution and finishing proved the difference as they ran in five tries to two after halftime dominance.
First Half
Kaiviti opened the scoring inside eight minutes when Sailosi Molikula crossed for the first try of the match, giving the Silktails a 4–0 lead after the conversion was unsuccessful.
The Rabbitohs responded through Cody Hill in the 17th minute, with Charlie Poynton converting to level the scores at 6–6.
Kaiviti regained the advantage midway through the half when Tevita Wanisi finished a strong attacking movement to put his side ahead 10–6 after another missed conversion.
Centre Maikeli Sadranu was then penalised and sent to the sin bin for a Dangerous Tackle putting the Silktails defence under pressure being a man down.
The Rabbitohs then began to build pressure and found reward late in the half.
At the 33rd minute, Jaffahl Skillington crossed out wide to level proceedings at 10–10 before Phillip Lavakeiaho scored just before the break. Poynton added the extras, giving South Sydney a 16–10 halftime lead.
Second Half
South Sydney seized control after the interval.
A powerful run from Jamayne Feast resulted in the Rabbitohs’ third try in the 45th minute, extending the lead to 20–10.
The Silktails struggled to maintain possession and discipline, conceding several penalties and handling errors as the Rabbitohs tightened their grip on the contest.
Forward pass to Prop George Satakala on the first set after kick off had Souths run in a try after kick off.
A yardage turnover from winger Joeli Railala who was injured in the process left the Silktails short on their edge and the Rabbitohs took advantage scoring down the left hand side of the field.
Sadranu after returning to the field was then forced again from the field for a HIA assessment forcing another outside back reshuffle and further disruption with Coach Duve’s rotation plan.
Further tries to Dayne Jennings and Corbin Alvarez pushed the margin beyond reach. Poynton’s accurate boot ensured South Sydney capitalised on their opportunities, including conversions in the 43rd and 76th minutes.
Despite several attacking opportunities, Kaiviti were unable to add to their first-half tally, with repeated errors halting promising field position.
Key Moments
- 7’ – Sailosi Molikula scores first for Kaiviti
- 17’ – Cody Hill levels scores for Rabbitohs
- 19’ – Tevita Wanisi restores Silktails lead
- 28’ – Maikeli Sadranu 10 min in the sin bin
- 33’ – Jaffahl Skillington scores to tie match
- 41’ – Phillip Lavakeiaho gives Rabbitohs halftime lead
- 45’ – Jamayne Feast extends advantage
- 58’ – Dayne Jennings scores
- 74’ – Corbin Alvarez seals result
Goal Kickers
- Rabbitohs: Charlie Poynton 5/6 conversions
- Silktails: No successful conversions
Final Score
South Sydney Rabbitohs 30
Kaiviti Silktails 10
