The 2026 Witzer Pre-Season Challenge culminates in a thrilling finale, pitting the Rabbitohs against the Sea Eagles at the idyllic Glen Willow Oval in Mudgee. But this isn't just any game; it's a clash of titans with a rich history of intense battles. And what better way to conclude the pre-season than with a showdown between two powerhouse teams?
Wayne Bennett's Bunnies vs. Des Hasler's Sea Eagles:
As the second half kicks off, South Sydney aims to maintain their lead. Despite Coach Bennett's decision to keep his star players on the field, an early setback occurs as Tevita Tatola is called off for a Head Injury Assessment (HIA). The score remains unchanged: Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0.
A Chaotic First Half:
The first half concludes in a frenzy of action. Manly, despite their efforts, couldn't capitalize on multiple repeat sets in South Sydney's territory. Winger Lehi Hopoate almost scored, but a last-ditch defensive effort denied him. With time ticking away, Cody Walker refused to settle for a half-time break. He broke through for his third line break, setting up a potential try for winger Bayleigh Bentley-Hape. But Manly's Reuben Garrick had other plans, securing the ball as the siren sounded, keeping the score at Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0.
33rd Minute:
South Sydney's defense shines as they score tries at one end and thwart Manly's attempts at the other. The Sea Eagles throw everything they've got, but the Rabbitohs' defense stands firm. However, a blow comes for South Sydney as Sean Keppie is taken for an HIA after a collision with Simione Laiafi. The score remains unchanged: Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0.
Controversial 30th Minute:
A Latrell Mitchell strip is ruled to have gone forward, prompting a Captain's Challenge from the Rabbitohs. The video review is inconclusive, and the on-field decision stands, but South Sydney retain their challenge. Meanwhile, Nathan Brown's return from the sin bin is imminent, providing a boost for Manly. The score remains Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0. But here's where it gets controversial—was the strip really forward? Viewers are divided, and the debate rages on.
28th Minute:
Manly finds themselves on the ropes again, suffering another setback as Corey Waddell is taken off for an HIA after colliding with Jye Gray. They're defending their line once more, with South Sydney pushing for a third try. The score remains Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0.
23rd Minute:
Jack Wighton, so close to scoring earlier, is denied again. He latches onto a Campbell Graham offload and dives for the corner, only for Manly's Clayton Faulalo to knock the ball free. The Sea Eagles cling on, but for how long? The score remains Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0.
22nd Minute:
A pivotal moment in the first half sees Manly's Nathan Brown sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Bayleigh Bentley-Hape. The Sea Eagles were gaining momentum, but now they're a man down. The score remains Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0.
Cody Walker's 17th-Minute Try:
South Sydney's Cody Walker adds to their lead with a try. The pressure was mounting after multiple repeat sets, and Walker seized the opportunity, stepping off his left foot and bursting through for the try. Rabbitohs 12 - Sea Eagles 0.
13th Minute:
The Rabbitohs charge forward, almost scoring their second try. Brandon Smith's dart from dummy half set the stage, offloading to Cody Walker who broke free. South Sydney ran the ball on the last, with Jack Wighton racing to the corner, but he was held up, and Manly survives. Rabbitohs 6 - Sea Eagles 0.
Campbell Graham's 7th-Minute Try:
The Bunnies strike early, finding the try-line in just seven minutes. A Manly error and a subsequent penalty build the pressure, and Campbell Graham capitalizes with a well-executed try. Latrell Mitchell's sideline conversion is successful, setting the score at Rabbitohs 6 - Sea Eagles 0.
4th Minute:
David Fifita, in his debut for South Sydney, makes an immediate impact, bursting through the defensive line. He's eventually stopped, and Jye Gray's kick on the last goes dead, but the threat is clear. Rabbitohs 0 - Sea Eagles 0.
Kick-off:
The game begins with a star-studded lineup. Latrell Mitchell, now at centre, and Dave Fifita, in his South Sydney debut, face off against Manly's new halfback, Jamal Fogarty. Rabbitohs 0 - Sea Eagles 0.
Late Changes:
South Sydney makes two late changes: Alex Johnston is out with a hamstring strain, replaced by Bayleigh Bentley-Hape (No.23), and William Afualo comes onto the bench (No.2). Adam Elliott also drops out due to calf tightness, with Dean Tauaa taking his place.
Manly, meanwhile, has one minor change, with Navren Willett dropping off the extended bench.
And this is the part most people miss—the strategic adjustments and last-minute changes that can make or break a game. Will these late changes impact the outcome? Only time will tell.
What do you think about the controversial strip call? Was it the right decision? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's keep the conversation going!
