Ignore the haters and stay true to yourself. That’s the message from Anthony Mundine to Latrell Mitchell as the South Sydney superstar prepares to return to rugby league following a three-game suspension. The Rabbitohs’ marquee player will make his comeback against St George Illawarra at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on Saturday night and is bracing for a ‘warm’ reception from the home crowd.
Mundine, a proud Indigenous player and former Dragons star, called on the Red V army to show respect for Mitchell, who was booed by fans during games against the Roosters and Bulldogs earlier in the season. Some viewed the booing as racist-based while others saw it as the sort of regular attention afforded any high-profile player.
One of the most divisive athletes in Australia, Mundine, is aware of the source of the criticism. He declared: “You ought to feel ashamed of yourself if you’re going to boo. Bring your heads in. You don’t truly belong in Australia.
“He’s being jeered because he’s an Australian citizen with pride who defends his countrymen. It’s completely uncool, not only for Latrell but for any player as well. Whether it is Latrell Mitchell or someone else, it is unfair to treat them that way. It is incorrect in every way possible. They ought to be enjoying and supporting the game.”
Upon being asked for advise, Mundine responded, “I know Latrell is very strong mentally and he shouldn’t give a sh*t about what people think and say.” He needs only to keep being himself and giving it his all on the pitch.
“All I can hope is that Latrell is spared. It would encourage and excite me to reach new heights if it were me. I want the best for my brother Latrell and I want him to be successful.”
Dragons fans tipped to boo Latrell Mitchell during game
Host of the Mad Dragons Vodcast and a lifelong Saint George Illawarra supporter, Donny Bell, anticipates Mitchell to receive his fair share of attention in Kogarah but is optimistic it won’t be unpleasant. Bell said to Yahoo Sport Australia, “Rightly or wrongly, I’d expect him to get booed by some sections of the crowd.”
