The longest-running NRL saga of 2024 is finally over as Jason Demetriou’s time at the South Sydney Rabbitohs came to an end on Tuesday evening.
After weeks of rumours and potential replacements dominating the headlines, the Rabbitohs have pulled the pin on Demetriou after the Rabbitohs’ embarrassing 54-20 loss to the Melbourne Storm on ANZAC Day.
The Rabbitohs have started off the 2024 season with just one win from the first seven games and currently hold the worst defensive record in the league – conceding an average of 35 points per game thus far.
Off-field dramas, in combination with some very disappointing performances on the field all lead to a build up of pressure on coach Demetriou and the Rabbitohs have finally bit the bullet.
Demetriou’s time at the Rabbitohs was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, with the side making a preliminary final in his first year before a sensational fall from grace in the 2023 season.
The underfire coach signed an extension until the end of 2026 last season but it is heavily rumoured that the Rabbitohs inserted a clause which allows them to sack Demetriou and only need to pay nine months of his wages.
The 48-year-old took over from Wayne Bennett at the end of the 2021 season and coached 60 games, winning 31 of those.
St George Illawarra Dragons legend Ben Hornby has been announced as the caretaker manager.
More to come.