Fast Starts the Key According to Jack

Jack Wighton says South Sydney can't afford to feel sorry for themselves despite a horror injury run, declaring the side needs to stop talking and start actioning faster starts ahead of a crucial clash with Melbourne.

No Time for Self-Pity

With South Sydney sitting just two points inside the top eight, Wighton acknowledged the Club has been hit hard by injuries throughout the season but says every NRL team is facing the same battle.

"We've had a tough couple of years with injuries and that kind of stuff, but there's nothing you can do about it. Every team's going through it so we're not alone," Wighton said. "You look around NRL it's probably the highest injury rate that we've seen for a while for every club so we're not the only ones, so we can't feel sorry for ourselves. We just gotta get on with the job."

The injuries have created a pattern of missed opportunities this season, with the Rabbitohs rarely fielding a full-strength side. Wighton said while it's been frustrating, the situation remains out of the players' control and the focus must stay on what lies ahead.

Action Required on Slow Starts

The Rabbitohs have struggled to fire from the opening whistle in recent weeks, falling behind early against the Knights and Raiders in particular. When asked if the team had addressed the issue at training, Wighton was blunt.

"Yeah we're speaking about it. We've just got action it, you know what I mean. We're doing enough talk, we've just gotta put it on the field on the weekend," he said. "Starting fast, it's pretty simple. We've got to turn up quicker."

With Melbourne looming this weekend and every competition point critical, Wighton said the side is at the stage of the season where nothing can be taken for granted.

Mitchell Boost on the Horizon

One piece of positive news is the expected return of Latrell Mitchell within a couple of weeks. The fullback has endured another stop-start season but Wighton said his presence on the field makes a significant difference to the entire team.

"Trelly's doing good. Obviously he wants to be out there with the boys. He's a presence we're missing, you know, but he's an awesome player to have on the field with you. He just gives you that confidence and that belief," Wighton said. "The quicker we can get him back the better. We can't wait to have him back. We love Trell."