The South Sydney Rabbitohs take on the Sydney Roosters tonight in the first leg of the annual Ron Coote Cup.
The Ron Coote Cup is a trophy that is decorated in history and an accolade that is treasured by both Sydney city clubs.
The mighty Rabbitohs are more fired up than ever for their Round 6 clash against the Tricolours, as they look to reclaim the trophy after losing it in 2017.
Ron Coote
Date of birth: 25 October 1944
Position: Lock, second row
Junior club: Kensington United Dragons
Clubs: South Sydney Rabbitohs, Eastern Suburbs
Premierships: Six (four with the Rabbitohs and two with the Roosters)
Rep honours: Australia (23 Games), NSW (14 games), NSW City Firsts (4 games)
History
Starting in 2007, the Ron Coote Cup celebrates South Sydney local Ron Coote, who played, captained and won premierships with both foundation clubs between 1964 and 1978.
The Souths junior was an accomplished representative player, having represented NSW and Australia.
Coote clocked up 259 first grade games in his career, making 151 appearances wearing the Red and Green jersey.
He was the first player to play 100 first grade matches for two different clubs and upon his retirement, established the Men of League Foundation.
Form guide
There have been 11 matches in the Ron Coote Cup since its beginning, with the Roosters winning seven times and the Rabbitohs winning four.
The Rabbitohs last held the Ron Coote Cup in 2016, defeating the Roosters 52 to 27 over both legs.
The Cardinal and Myrtle are determined to replicate those performances in 2018 and bring the silverware back to Redfern.
What it means to the players
Competing for the Ron Coote Cup is a great honour for many Rabbitohs players both young and old, which Club captain Greg Inglis says is a privilege.
"They’re great rivalries and they are great clashes," said Inglis.
"It’s the first leg of the Ron Coote Cup, which is a privilege to play for.”
Halfback Adam Reynolds mirrored his captained words and can't wait to get stuck into the Roosters.
“It’s always a good rivalry week, the Ron Coote cup is a great thing to be a part of, he’s a legend of a game."
