On this day in 1946, a huge, raw-boned forward named Jack Rayner makes his debut for Souths in the first match of the season against Newtown at Pratten Park.
While serving in the army in Papua New Guinea, Rayner played football with former Souths international Eric Lewis and promised Lewis that he would try out at Redfern after the War.
Although Rayner breaks his ankle after five weeks and the team fails to win a single match all season, for South Sydney, it will prove one of the most beneficial promises ever made.
The South Sydney Rabbitohs will be celebrating our servicemen in Round eight at ANZ Stadium for our ANZAC Round. A special ANZAC Round jersey will be worn wiith $5 from every jersey sold going to the 104th Battery.
