Keaon Koloamatangi says the bye came at the perfect time for South Sydney despite the team’s defensive excellence against the Tigers, with the forward eager to embrace the Good Friday atmosphere.
Keaon lives near Belmore and grew up attending Good Friday matches as a Bulldogs supporter, giving him unique insight into what the occasion means to both fan bases. “It’s massive. I still live in the area near Belmore, so I know what it’s all about. I grew up a Doggies supporter, so I know what it’s all about and used to go to games Good Friday,” he said.
Koloamatangi said the rivalry remains friendly in his local area, with Bulldogs supporters giving him good-natured ribbing during the week. He has mates who support Canterbury-Bankstown, and while they beep and shout support for their team when they see him, it’s all in good fun heading into one of Rugby League’s most anticipated annual fixtures.
Bye Came at Perfect Time
The South Sydney forward said the early-season bye proved beneficial timing despite initial reservations when the draw was released. After the opening rounds where teams come out firing and players bodies still adjust, the break allowed everyone to refresh.
“When we first seen the draw and we seen the bye so early, I think we’re probably not too keen on it, but it’s actually pretty good because the first couple of weeks you’d be pretty banged up, everyone comes out firing,” Koloamatangi said.
He used the time away to stay with family and his kids, getting away from football to return refreshed for a crucial four-game block that includes Friday’s clash with the Bulldogs.
Defence the Positive Despite Win
While South Sydney secured victory over Wests Tigers in Central Coast before the bye, coach Wayne Bennett made clear his displeasure with the performance, a message that resonated through the playing group.
Koloamatangi acknowledged the team played well below their standard and left points on the field, though he emphasised the defensive effort as a significant bright spot. “The positive was our defence. We played very well defensively and probably the best we’ve been defensively in a long time,” he said.
The forward said Bennett’s approach after disappointing performances is straightforward. He tells the players about it, addresses the issues, then moves on as their best mate the next day. Koloamatangi said the players are used to Bennett’s direct style and understand when criticism is warranted.
With Canterbury-Bankstown also coming off a difficult performance, Koloamatangi expects both teams to come out firing in front of what will be a vocal crowd from both supporter bases.
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