South Sydney Rabbitohs winger Alex Johnston has disclosed the fiery moment when coach Wayne Bennett intervened to stop the club's social media team from documenting his historic try-scoring achievement. Shortly after surpassing Ken Irvine's 57-year-old NRL record last Friday night, Johnston and his teammates were in the dressing rooms during a break in play.
Bennett's Stern Intervention
A Souths social media worker attempted to capture the celebratory atmosphere as Johnston received congratulations from his peers. However, Bennett, who had already expressed strong opposition to a pitch invasion to mark the feat, swiftly intervened. He spotted a microphone being attached to Johnston's jersey and took immediate action.
'One of our media guys actually clipped one of the recorders on me, and he (Bennett) saw it and ran over, grabbed it and threw it away,' Johnston recounted on the 100% Footy program on Monday night. 'Which was fair enough, I didn't really want it on either.'
Focus on the Game
As the players awaited the resumption of the match against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium, Bennett made a beeline for Johnston, removing the microphone and discarding it. The veteran coach was unusually vocal during this interval, striving to keep his squad concentrated on the immediate task: securing a victory over their bitter rivals.
Despite Bennett's efforts, South Sydney ultimately suffered an eight-point defeat. Post-match, Johnston paid tribute to Bennett, crediting the supercoach with playing a pivotal role in his career resurgence at the club.
Johnston's Emotional Journey
'I was pretty much out the door at South Sydney, and fortunately for myself I wrote this letter and gave a little spiel about why I want to stay and I went into a meeting and was told the news there's actually no room for me,' Johnston explained. 'I ended up breaking down crying and said "take the letter anyway". Wayne got his hands on it and he told me that letter pretty much saved me.'
Future Prospects and Recognition
Meanwhile, Johnston has hinted strongly that he might conclude his professional career with the PNG Chiefs, set to join the competition in 2028. South Sydney is unlikely to obstruct the record-breaking try-scorer if he chooses this path.
Fresh from breaking Irvine's longstanding mark, Johnston attended a ceremony on Monday where a statue in his likeness was unveiled at Rabbitohs headquarters. The 31-year-old gave his approval to the statue, humorously noting that it would now be exposed to bird droppings outside Heffron Park.
'The majority of my footy career has been overwhelmingly positive, but along the way a few fans have s*** on me,' Johnston quipped. 'There have been a few coaches who have s*** on me, the media has s*** on me – now the pigeons can s*** on me.'
International Acclaim and Decisions Ahead
Johnston's accomplishment drew a letter of congratulations from Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, sparking nationwide celebrations. Of Torres Strait Islander and PNG descent, Johnston has represented the Kumuls in 12 Tests since 2019.
With his contract expiring next year, Johnston is expected to be a prime target for the Chiefs upon their entry into the league. 'They just love rugby league so much over there, the Chiefs, every week they'll get massive support,' he said. 'It's something I probably want to be a part of.'
When questioned about his upcoming decision, Johnston acknowledged the emotional pull from both sides. 'It'd be cool to be the first signature over there, but I bleed red and green. I've still got this year and next year at the club,' he admitted. 'I love this club. I've always wanted to be a one-club player, and I'm in this position now. Things could go either way.'
