Rugby League Rivalries Uncovered: A Deep Dive into the Most Intense Moments in the Game

‘Take me now, I’ve witnessed it all’

In the return match at Allianz Stadium, it seemed the Roosters were set to secure a 2-0 lead for the year.

With less than two minutes remaining and a 10-point advantage, the Roosters were left utterly gobsmacked as the Rabbitohs orchestrated a remarkable comeback.

It began with Nathan Merritt, who crossed the line next to the goalposts, narrowing the margin to four points as time ticked away.

From the ensuing kick-off, Souths launched a full-field assault, with the ball shifting from Dave Taylor to Chris McQueen, then to Merritt, followed by Issac Luke, who offloaded to Adam Reynolds. Reynolds capitalised on the loose pass to score right by the uprights.

He successfully converted the goal, sealing a stunning 24-22 triumph for the Bunnies.

At that moment, Warren Smith summed it up perfectly.

“You can take me now, I’ve witnessed it all,” the seasoned commentator remarked.

That season, which saw Maguire’s men reach the preliminary final, ignited a fierce rivalry and set the stage for both clubs’ on-field successes in the decade to follow.