Asotasi ready for charity challenge

South Sydney skipper Roy Asotasi says he can’t wait to take on NRL title-holders St George in this year’s Charity Shield.

The match, which will be played on February 13, will provide both teams with a stern test of their abilities ahead of the NRL‘s opening round in March.

But for Asotasi, the match represents much more than a pre-season jaunt.

“This will be my fifth Charity Shield match and I’m really looking forward to the hit out,” Asotasi said.

“It’s always a tough game and this year we get to take on the premiers. It’s the best game to test ourselves ahead of round one and you really feel like your season begins with this game.

“Anyone who is craving some live Rugby League should get to this game and get behind the teams, as well as the charities that both Clubs are supporting.”

The match will be the 28th time the Charity Shield has been contested and will follow on from the Harvey Norman All Stars game the night before.

The match against St George will take on greater meaning for the Rabbitohs according to coach John Lang, who will hope to lead the club to their first finals since 2007.

“We always look forward to the Charity Shield and this year it takes on greater significance with us testing ourselves against the reigning premiers,” Lang said.

“The Dragons are the benchmark and we have the luxury of playing them on our home ground, in their first visit to ANZ Stadium since winning last year’s title.

“We’ll be fielding a strong team and testing out a few combinations so it will be a great game for our Members and supporters to attend and see how we’re looking heading into round one against the Roosters.”