Souths will look to take a step forward in 2026 under new head coach Adrian Thompson after finishing just outside the finals in last year’s Hospital Cup season.

The Magpies finished fifth in 2025 with six wins from 16 matches and were unable to break into the top four in a tightly contested competition.

While Thompson was not involved at the club last season, the former Easts premiership-winning coach said one of the early priorities since arriving at the Magpies has been ensuring the playing group is aligned in how the side wants to play.

Overview with Adrian Thompson:

“I wasn’t involved last year so it’s hard to comment too much,” Thompson told Rugby News.

“But the biggest takeaway was the need to get everyone connected and on the same page.

“Preseason has been solid. A big focus has been what we do in each area of the field, which was a big learning from last year.”

2025: 5th (6 wins, 10 losses)

Ins: Nalani May (UQ), Slater Galloway (UQ), Reece Mies (Wests)

Outs: Kohan Herbert (Bond), Maddox Maclean (UQ), Viliami Lea (New Zealand), Conor Vest (retired), Finn Hearn (injured)

What style of footy will we see from Souths this year?

“We do want to score more points which was an issue last year,” Souths’ head coach said.

“A big focus has been getting into the opposition 22 and converting the pressure.”

Player(s) to watch:

“Xavier Rubens, Harry Holt and Jake Kurbatoff are all set for big years,” Thompson said.

Which two teams will play in this year’s grand final?

“Based on the teams it should be Easts and Wests, but we’ll see,” he said.