'Move on': Slater puts heat back on Souths chiefs

Billy Slater believes the Rabbitohs need to “move on” with a decision on Jason Demetriou’s future, urging the club’s leaders to make a stand one way or the other.

After the side slumped to 1-5 to start their campaign with a loss against the Sharks on Saturday night, question marks are still flying around the NRL regarding whether or not Demetriou is the man to lead South Sydney forward.

While their effort in the 34-22 loss to the Sharks was an improved one compared to a week prior against the Warriors, the result only added further pressure on the coach.

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Chief executive Blake Solly came out over the weekend to defend Demetriou and his job – but according to Slater, it wasn’t enough to silence the external noise.

Jason Demetriou remains under pressure at the Rabbitohs.

“This speculation will continue until South Sydney come out and make their decision on who they want to lead their club,” he said on Nine’s The Billy Slater Podcast.

“That’s what needs to happen – the voice of South Sydney internally needs to come out and say what they want. They actually need to work out what they want first.

“If that’s Jason Demetriou and they think he is the best person to lead this football side, they need to come out and express that.

“They need to put all of this to bed and if they don’t, they need to make the decision and move on with it. The noise is really loud.”

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Souths were out-enthused by the Sea Eagles and Broncos in their first two outings in 2024, before being blown off the park by the Roosters in round three.

A gritty win over the Bulldogs allowed Demetriou a stay of execution, but the past fortnight has seen the Bunnies concede 68 points and remain in 17th spot on the table.

Slater admitted the side managed to turn a corner in some areas against Cronulla – especially given a growing injury toll – but believes the best cure for their issues will be to draw a line in the sand and start winning football games again.

“They tried really hard as well against Cronulla,” he said.

“They were dealt a few cruel blows and there were some senior players went off the field that didn’t come back on. Junior Tatola picked up an injury and didn’t play a part in the game. Cam Murray got a head knock in the first half and didn’t play any further part.

Cameron Murray watches on during South Sydney’s loss to the Sharks.

“It was a really tough night for South Sydney, but I thought they fought hard.

“They just need to work out what they want and who the best person for the job is and then come out and move forward with it.”

South Sydney have the bye in round seven, before a showdown with ladder-leaders Melbourne on Anzac Day.