Veteran rugby league reporter Phil Rothfield has warned Rabbitohs halfback Lachlan Ilias must “aim up” as a variety headache looms for Jason Demetriou.
The 23-year-old was tasked with filling to massive footwear of veteran Adam Reynolds when South Sydney powerbrokers allowed him to depart after the 2021 season.
The microscope has been firmly positioned on Ilias throughout his time within the No.7 and criticism of his performances ramped up in 2023 because the Rabbitohs missed out on finals soccer.
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Now Demetriou has a giant determination on his arms after a stellar marketing campaign from reserve grade halfback Dean Hawkins.
The 24-year-old led the Rabbitohs’ NSW Cup facet to grand remaining victory over the weekend, beating the North Sydney Bears 22-18.
Hawkins additionally earned the NSWRL Player of the Year award, recording six tries, 17 attempt assists and 15 line-break assists within the common season.
Interestingly he defined he has modelled his sport round that of former Souths halfback Adam Reynolds and stated the award “is a stepping stone in my career”.
Hawkins has solely performed six NRL video games to this point, however Rothfield defined he may very well be in line for an extended stint.
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“I think it’s going to be a big story that will gain some legs in the off-season,” Rothfield stated on the Big Sports Breakfast.
“The Rabbitohs won their 21st NSW Cup grand final yesterday and halfback Dean Hawkins starred.
“He’s 24-years of age, the NSW Cup Player of the Year and a very good player. Lachlan Ilias is also a very good player but has had his struggles.
“This year in a Rabbitohs side who struggled all across the park so you can’t put it all on him. But Hawkins is going to put a lot of pressure on the kid.
“He’s a very good player as shown by his awards and Souths are looking for every bit of extra to boost their performance.
“But it will be a big story, I think Lachy Ilias will start the season and probably deserves to, but he will have to aim up better than he did this year.”
Source web site: www.foxsports.com.au
