South Sydney and Newcastle launch the NRL finals with a sudden-death contest between two dangerous sides that split their regular-season meetings.
When: Friday September 11, 2026 at 7:50 pm
Where: Allianz Stadium
Bet: Bet On This Match HERE
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Newcastle Knights Odds
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Newcastle Knights Preview
South Sydney and Newcastle open the finals at Allianz Stadium after splitting two tight regular-season meetings, each won by the home side. The Rabbitohs arrive from a 50-20 victory over a depleted Roosters outfit and regain Tallis Duncan, whose return moves Adam Elliott to the bench. Matthew Dufty starts at fullback, with Jye Gray reverting to the interchange, while Euan Aitken is unavailable. Newcastle had the bye last weekend following a 46-32 loss to the Warriors. Dominic Young, Phoenix Crossland and Tyson Frizell return, but Jacob Saifiti is suspended and Trey Mooney’s shoulder injury creates a front-row opportunity for Cody Hopwood. Newcastle has won four of its past five against South Sydney, yet the Rabbitohs’ recent attacking rhythm and stronger home-city platform give them a narrow edge in a contest likely to remain alive deep into the second half.
Head To Head Bet
We're tipping South Sydney Rabbitohs to win at $1.40 odds.
First Try Scorer
First Try Scorer: Alex Johnston at $6.75.
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Newcastle Knights Teams
Rabbitohs team: 1. Matthew Dufty 2. Alex Johnston 3. Latrell Mitchell 4. Jack Wighton 5. Campbell Graham 6. Cody Walker 7. Jayden Sullivan 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Brandon Smith 10. Keaon Koloamatangi 11. David Fifita 12. Tallis Duncan 13. Cameron Murray 14. Jye Gray 15. Lachlan Hubner 16. Sean Keppie 17. Jamie Humphreys 18. Adam Elliott 19. Latrell Siegwalt 20. Liam Le Blanc 21. Talanoa Penitani 22. Peter Mamouzelos
Knights team: 1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Dominic Young 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Fletcher Sharpe 7. Sandon Smith 8. Tyson Frizell 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Cody Hopwood 11. Jermaine McEwen 12. Francis Manuleleua 13. Mathew Croker 14. Harrison Graham 15. Lachlan Crouch 16. Pasami Saulo 17. Thomas Cant 18. Fletcher Hunt 19. Toby Winter 20. Kyle McCarthy 21. Elijah Leaumoana 22. Diesel Hagan