Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Cody Walker delivered a match-winning performance to guide South Sydney Rabbitohs to a 32-12 victory over Parramatta Eels at CommBank Stadium on Thursday night, keeping the Bunnies firmly in the hunt for a top-four NRL finish.
The win was especially timely for Wayne Bennett's side, coming just days after star centre Latrell Mitchell was ruled out for a month with a calf injury.
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Walker the Difference on a Big Night
The 36-year-old veteran five-eighth was the standout performer in front of 14,365 fans, scoring the opening try in the fifth minute before setting up Euan Aitken to give South Sydney Rabbitohs a 12-0 lead inside the opening quarter.
Walker then delivered the killer blow in the 62nd minute, bursting through for his second try when the game briefly looked in the balance.
Eels Take a Step Backwards
Parramatta Eels struggled badly on what was captain Mitchell Moses' 250th NRL game. The visitors made 17 errors, missed 36 tackles, and managed just a 60 per cent completion rate.
Coach Jason Ryles was visibly frustrated on the sideline as his side slipped to a 5-10 record.
Injury Concerns for South Sydney
The night wasn't without worry for South Sydney Rabbitohs. Winger Ed Kosi limped off with a thigh injury, while fullback Jye Gray was sent for a head injury assessment after a clash with Parramatta Eels centre Sean Russell.
Gray passed his test late in the game, though he wasn't required to return as South Sydney closed out the win comfortably.
What's Next
Tallis Duncan scored a late brace to round out the scoreline for South Sydney Rabbitohs, who now sit at 8-6 and face Penrith Panthers next Friday. For full NRL standings and fixtures, visit the NRL's official website. Want to tip next week's games? Create your own tipping competition with SmartTips and take on your mates.
