3news.co.nz

Eddy Pettybourne

View Video

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 6:30p.m.

By Sam Ackerman

The Rabbitohs are set to field one of the most imposing forward packs in recent memory this season, after being the big movers in the NRL player market.

Among a host of international and Origin stars, young Kiwi second rower Eddy Pettybourne is set to play an important role in 2010.

He has just signed a new two-year deal with the Rabbitohs, after his breakthrough 2009 season.

"Makes me hungry, even coming to training every day, doing the best I can," he says.

Pettybourne's impact last year was so great, he'd barely settled into first grade before being asked to choose his future allegiance - State of Origin or New Zealand.

"Pretty tough time for me and my family, 'cause I was born in New Zealand but mostly brought up here. Always wanted to play for New Zealand, so I followed my word."

It paid off, with selection in the Kiwis' Four Nations squad - even though he didn't get on the field, the experience has lit a fire under the 22-year-old.

"It was awesome getting the call up, wish I played, but one day I will. Hopefully I do well this year, play good for the club, for Souths."

With new signings like England's Four Nations standout Sam Burgess and former Broncos wrecking ball Dave Taylor joining the Rabbitohs, competition for spots will be fierce.

"Looks good, got a lot of competition, a few of the young boys are coming up as well, so it's going to be tough getting that position, can't wait," says Pettybourne.

New Souths coach John Lang expects plenty out of Pettybourne, after extracting so much from Kiwi back rowers during his premiership-winning stint with the Panthers.

"Eddy's probably not quite as big as some of those guys, but Eddy's very quick, and quite an explosive player and he's got a really good football sense as well.

"He's always smiling, reminds me of Franky Pritchard in that way."

It could be a big season for Souths and their Kiwi smiling assassin.