Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou believes the smaller field dimensions in Las Vegas could “make a difference” to the rugby league played in the historic season opener.
South Sydney face the Sea Eagles in the first competition game played abroad, with the Roosters and Broncos also doing battle in the United States.
Allegiant Stadium, the ground where this year’s Super Bowl was held earlier this month, will play host to the NRL’s season opener.
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However, the Vegas ground will be six metres shorter and five metres narrower than a regulation rugby league field, making it the smallest ground a professional game has been played on.
NRL players are normally used to the field being 68 metres from sideline to sideline and also 100 metres from tryline to tryline.
“We spent a week training on it, just to get a feel for it,” Demetriou said at Sydney Airport on Tuesday morning.
“Get some understanding of it, but the initial feeling was that the players didn’t really feel it but when I went back and watched training it’s pretty obvious the dimensions do make a difference.
“It’s definitely going to be more defence orientated and the weather I think could play a part as well, the cooler conditions.
“I’m excited we get a full two weeks to prep for that and we’ve had a week here as well.”
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Las Vegas is famous for its luxurious casinos, nicknamed ‘Sin City’ for its many temptations.
However, Demetriou believes his side know they are making the trip strictly for business whilst also taking a sneaky jab at the Sea Eagles.
Hilariously, the Rabbitohs coach said his club would happily put on a bar tab for the Manly side to potentially throw them off their game.
“We can put some money on the bar for Manly if they want to get out there,” Demetriou said.
“For us, if I haven’t explained how important it is for the players than I haven’t done my job through pre-season.
“We know what we are going over there for and we will make sure we spend time together though, it’s important that we enjoy each other’s company.
“Come kick-off we will be ready to go.”
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