📰 NRL Match Preview: Rabbitohs vs Melbourne Storm RD21, 2026
The Rabbitohs return to Accor Stadium this Friday night for a clash against the Melbourne Storm, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm (AEST). South Sydney currently sit 7th on the ladder with a 9-8 record from 17 games and 24 competition points, while Melbourne are 11th with 8 wins and 10 losses from 18 matches for 20 points. Having won all five games at Accor Stadium this season and with the finals right around the corner, the Rabbitohs will be looking for a strong performance to continue this streak and earn an important 2 points.
Recent Form
South Sydney have won 3 of their last 5 matches: a loss to Canberra 24-34 in Round 20, a win over Newcastle 26-24 in Round 19, a loss to Penrith 14-36 in Round 18, a win against Parramatta 32-12 in Round 17, and a dominant 48-6 victory over Brisbane in Round 15.
The Rabbitohs will be looking to replicate their strong Round 8 performance when they take on the storm for a second time this season.
Team Lists
Cody Walker captains the Rabbitohs with Matthew Dufty at fullback. The halves pairing is Walker and Ashton Ward, with Brandon Smith at hooker. Tevita Tatola and Keaon Koloamatangi start in the front row, with David Fifita and Euan Aitken on the edges and Lachlan Hubner at lock.
The Rabbitohs backline features Alex Johnston and Campbell Graham on the wings with Latrell Siegwalt and Jack Wighton in the centres. The bench includes Jayden Sullivan, Jye Gray, Liam Le Blanc, Jamie Humphreys, Bronson Garlick and John Radel.
Ins: Bronson Garlick, Edward Kosi, Jayden Sullivan, Peter Mamouzelos, Thomas Fletcher. Outs: Cameron Murray, Tallis Duncan.
Melbourne are captained by Harry Grant at hooker with Jahrome Hughes returning at halfback alongside Tyran Wishart. Sualauvi Faalogo is at fullback with Stefano Utoikamanu and Josh King in the front row. The Storm welcome back Moses Leo on the wing.
Game Day Information
This week's Match Day Partner is Dementia Training Australia. Corporate gates open at 6:30pm and general public gates at 7:00pm, with kickoff at 8:00pm.
All memberships and tickets include integrated ticketing with public transport, meaning your fares are included in the price of your entry.
Pre-game entertainment includes hearing from Sean Keppie on key match-ups, while Rabbitohs Legend Craig Coleman will ring the Legacy Bell when the team runs out. At half-time, enjoy the Dementia Training Australia Dance Cam for your chance to win, plus the Wahu Mini League. Post-match, head to the Northwest Terrace Bar for the Members Function with a chance to win the signed match ball.
Around the grounds, check out Budget Direct's Spin to Win outside Gates J/K on the Western side for instant prizes, and test your fitness at Plus Fitness' Race the Player activation.
What's at Stake
The Rabbitohs hold 7th position with 24 points from 17 games and a points differential of +76. A win would strengthen their grip on a top-eight spot heading into the back end of the season.
Melbourne sit 11th with 20 points from 18 games and a points differential of -10. The Storm are 4 points outside the top eight and desperately need wins to keep their finals hopes alive.
With the Rabbitohs having a game in hand and sitting just 2 points behind the Dolphins and Knights in 5th and 6th, this is a crucial opportunity to consolidate their position in the top eight at home.
