As we near the half-way point of the season, Rabbitohs NYC (under 20s) coach, David Penna, provides an update on the progress of the Club’s young-guns playing in the Holden Cup.
After 11 games, Penna’s side sits in 11th spot on the competition ladder with eight points, having scored four wins thus far, and with the inclusion of a number of players from the Club’s talented SG Ball (under 18s) side complementing his troops, Penna has every reason for optimism.
“We started the season really well,” said Penna.
“We’ve got a lot of injuries – we had a tough period, but (the) last couple of weeks things have turned around and a lot of the new boys have come up from the SG Ball side, who had a really successful season.
“They’ve added that little bit of energy and excitement back to the team – and we’re starting to get dribs of boys back.
“I’m hoping this sort of next five rounds we can really start to play some good football.”
Penna praised the efforts of his under 18s graduates, who came into the side following a Preliminary Finals berth under the tutelage of former Rabbitoh, Blues and Test winger, Matt King.
“They have made a massive difference to our side,” said Penna.
“There’s some terrific young players there and that little bit of youth and experience that (makes) a good football team.
“We’re trying hard and the boys are working hard.”
Just like the Club’s first grade side, Penna’s team will enjoy the bye in Round 12, and have begun preparations for their Round 13 clash against the Gold Coast Titans at North Sydney Oval in what will be a rare chance to play afternoon football.
“Hopefully the fans who can’t get to Perth will come to North Sydney Oval,” enthused Penna.
“Both our sides (Bears and 20s) are there and it’s going to be a great afternoon – it’s been a long time since I’ve had a one o’clock game on a Saturday, so I’m really looking forward to it.”
The Rabbitohs NYC side will take on the Gold Coast Titans on Saturday 4 June at North Sydney Oval, with kick-off slated for 1pm. If you need your Rabbitohs footy fix next weekend, come and cheer on the future starts of our Club at North Sydney Oval!
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