
South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire is hopeful that there will be a strong core of support in place for the Bunnies when they face St Helens in the World Club Challenge next February, as they gear up to slug it out to become the best side in club Rugby League.
Maguire – who has experience of the World Club Challenge from his time coaching Wigan Warriors – says that even though St Helens are at home, there will hopefully be a large contingent of UK Rabbitohs fans and Australians living in England who will cheer them on.
Maguire also said he is hopeful the English crowd may get behind Souths due to the presence of the Burgess brothers, who could feature in the game next February.
“We’re really looking forward to the World Club Challenge as a group and it will be a fantastic way to start our 2015 season with the World Club title on the line,” said Maguire. “We have a few new players in our squad this year and a tough hit out such as the one we expect against St Helens will set us up well for our Premiership defence.
“Despite St Helens being the local side I’m sure many English-based Rabbitohs members and supporters and ex-pat Aussies will get behind us, and I’m also sure the English crowd will look forward seeing some of our English Rabbitohs in the Burgess brothers in action on home soil.
“I understand the importance of the World Club Challenge from my time at Wigan and our team can’t wait to play for another big title in February.”