Depth Shines as Magic Round Looms

Lachlan Hubner says South Sydney's depth has been a major factor in their strong start to the season, with the Rabbitohs preparing to face his former club at Magic Round this weekend.

Magic Round Reunion

The Rabbitohs forward will face his former club at Magic Round this weekend, though Hubner is keeping his focus squarely on the two competition points at stake. While he acknowledged the occasion, he maintained it would be business as usual for South Sydney.

"Nothing changes for me and us, we just gotta go up there, we've gotta get a job done and hopefully come away with two points," he said.

Hubner said Magic Round itself was a valuable event for the game, bringing supporters together for a unique experience. He praised the festival atmosphere that allows fans to watch multiple matches across the weekend.

Squad Depth Proving Crucial

Despite losing multiple players to injury in recent weeks, South Sydney have maintained their winning form, and Hubner identified the Club's depth as a critical strength. The lock forward said the next man up mentality has allowed the Rabbitohs to navigate personnel changes without missing a beat.

"I think that's a big positive that we have at the club at the moment is we've got a lot of depth and a lot of good players that if we lose someone it's just the next man up attitude and we get on with it," Hubner said.

When asked what has clicked differently this season compared to last year's injury-affected campaign, Hubner suggested the effort and belief were present in both seasons. He said the team is now working cohesively, with players feeding off each other's energy to get results.

Latrell Siegwalt's Impressive Debut

The young fullback's debut performance last weekend drew praise from Hubner, who noted Siegwalt executed his role with composure despite the pressure of filling in. Hubner said the debutant kept things simple and delivered on the fundamentals the team required.

"He just kept his job simple and did the little things that we wanted him to do and yeah he nailed it," Hubner said.

Hubner indicated Siegwalt would likely retain his spot in the side, though he acknowledged final team selections were still to be confirmed. He said the playing group has full confidence in Siegwalt's abilities after his weekend performance.

Ward's Contribution to the Spine

Hubner spoke highly of halfback Ashton Ward's impact since joining the spine, highlighting his communication skills as particularly valuable for the forward pack. The lock forward said Ward's direction around the park helps the middles stay organised and connected.

"He's a good communicator, I think that's massive for a half and for us middles, he just directs us around the park," Hubner said. "He's one tough little bugger and we love having him."

Hubner emphasised Ward's toughness and playmaking ability, noting he excels in the effort areas that often go unnoticed but make a significant difference to the team's structure.