Star recruit Jack Wighton showcased his prowess by scoring a double and amassing 131 meters, propelling the Rabbitohs to their sixth consecutive win in the traditional Good Friday showdown.
The Rabbitohs drew first blood in the ninth minute, capitalizing on a penalty against Reed Mahoney with Thomas Burgess crossing the line. Latrell Mitchell’s conversion extended their lead to 6-0. Just minutes later, Wighton powered through the Bulldogs’ defense for his first try of the game, following an impressive set initiated by Mitchell’s skillful offload to Alex Johnston.
The Bulldogs fought back strongly, with Matt Burton orchestrating a remarkable 40-20 kick that set up Connor Tracey for a try, allowing the blue and whites to take a 12-10 lead into halftime. However, their momentum was hampered by a serious injury to Josh Addo-Carr, who was ruled out under concussion protocols.
The Rabbitohs regained control early in the second half, as Wighton orchestrated a brilliant play to set up Johnston before crossing for his second try of the day. The Bulldogs faced further setbacks with Jacob Preston leaving the field for an HIA and Kurt Morrin sin-binned for a dangerous tackle on Cameron Murray.
Despite a late try from Tracey narrowing the gap, the Bulldogs fell short in their comeback bid. Latrell Mitchell’s penalty goal sealed the win for the Rabbitohs, who held firm in the face of a spirited Bulldogs effort.
