The Number 1 Showdown this Friday | Media Wrap

Jye Gray says South Sydney's left edge is reaping the rewards of their pre-season work after an impressive opening round performance, while the fullback is relishing this week's challenge against reigning Dally M Medallist James Tedesco.

Preparing for Tedesco battle

Gray is preparing for one of Rugby League's toughest tests this weekend when South Sydney face the reigning Dally M medallist at fullback. The young custodian acknowledged the quality of his opposite number and the challenge that lies ahead.

"He's been one of the best, if not the best, in the game for such a long period of time now," Gray said. "I think every fullback looks up to him, so he's obviously someone that we have to stop this weekend and we can't wait to go out there and play against him."

Gray has studied the veteran fullback's game closely as he continues to develop his own craft in the number one jersey.

Left edge firing

The Rabbitohs' left side combination impressed in their opening round victory, with Gray enjoying a front row seat to watch Latrell Mitchell and Alex Johnston link up effectively. The fullback said the connection is a direct result of the work put in during the pre-season.

"It's awesome, you know they've been putting the work out in pre-season to take it out on the field on Sunday was awesome and to see them link up and score a couple of tries, it was what we've been practising all pre-season for," he said.

Despite some defensive issues late in the match, Gray said getting the two competition points was an awesome feeling after the trial period.

Johnston's milestone moment

The entire NRL is watching as Johnston closes in on a significant try-scoring record, with Gray noting the milestone could be achieved as soon as this week. The fullback said the whole playing group understands the magnitude of what their winger is about to accomplish.

There has been considerable discussion about how the moment should be celebrated if it occurs, particularly regarding crowd safety. Gray admitted he had no clear answers on the logistics, joking that he had asked teammate Stretch to carry him in the air to avoid being squashed if fans rush the field.

When pressed on the Club's position, Gray deferred to coach Wayne Bennett's comments. "Obviously Wayne talked about it in the press after the game and I think that's our view as a club," Gray said. "It's an awesome milestone and obviously the fans are gonna do what the fans are gonna do, but we're just gonna follow what Wayne says and as a club."

Mamouzelos' impact and Ward injury

Gray was full of praise for Peter Mamouzelos, who made an immediate impact off the bench with a dynamic try. The hooker had told Gray before the game that Bennett wanted him to run hard when he entered the match to take advantage of defensive fatigue.

"I seen him take off and followed him and he put me away," Gray said, describing the try. The fullback's support play was crucial in the four-pointer.

Gray had not yet caught up with Ashton Ward following the halfback's injury, but acknowledged his absence for the next six weeks will be felt, describing him as a great player and person to have around the team. “He’s a great person, a great player and awesome to have around the team… Let’s just hope his recovery is fast.”