Languishing in 14th and 17th place respectively, the Rabbitohs and Eels need to turn things around quickly before their seasons slip away completely.
South Sydney showed plenty of heart to push the Cowboys right to the end in Magic Round but still have just the one win for the season as they continue to struggle with form and confidence.
Their injury toll is something that will continue to challenge them over the next few weeks but interim coach Ben Hornby will welcome back Jacob Host (suspension) with open arms into a depleted forward pack which has lacked punch in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, the Eels' 48-16 demolition by Melbourne on Sunday came as their fourth consecutive loss and looked to be the final straw for coach Brad Arthur who was shown the door on Monday.
Star halfback Mitch Moses remains sidelined with a foot injury so Dylan Brown and Daejarn Asi again call the shots in the halves, while rookie Blaize Talagi should have taken plenty of confidence after his second hit-out at fullback.
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Team News
Rabbitohs: With Cody Walker ruled out on Thursday with a calf injury, Jack Wighton will now partner rookie Dion Teaupa who has been promoted to halfback. Jacob Host's return from suspension in the back row sees Siliva Havili move to the bench with Michael Chee Kam in the centres after he was confirmed to return from a calf complaint. No further late changes.
Eels: A late blow with strike centre Will Penisini ruled out due to an infection and replaced by Morgan Harper. That change comes after Ryan Matterson (illness) was initially named but has made way, with Bryce Cartwright promoted start. Brendan Hands is the new man on the bench. Star halfback Mitch Moses remains sidelined with a foot injury.
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Stat Attack
- The Rabbitohs have won six of their past seven games against the Eels.
- The Eels have not defeated the Rabbitohs at Accor Stadium since 2017.
- The Rabbitohs have won only one of their past eight games at Accor Stadium.
- Eels winger Maika Sivo has scored eight tries in his last 11 games at Accor Stadium.
- South Sydney winger Alex Johnston has scored nine tries in his past four games against the Eels.
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Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the .