Tempting fate still appeals to South Sydney coach Michael Maguire despite admitting he dodged a bullet at the Auckland Nines.
The mentor of the NRL premiers has vowed to field his strongest side for the rest of the busiest pre-season yet after rolling the dice and winning at Eden Park on the weekend.
Maguire could not hide his relief after dodging the Nines injury curse as his star-studded squad toasted Auckland success - albeit after overcoming a gallant Cronulla 18-14 in extra time on Sunday.
Others weren't so lucky despite the majority of NRL rivals opting to pick no-name squads for the season opener.
Twelve months after last year's inaugural Nines was marred by high-profile injuries, Parramatta fell foul of the Eden Park jinx.
They are sweating on the fitness of playmaker Chris Sandow (ankle), adding to a horror Nines injury list of Ken Edwards (knee), Brad Takairangi (ankle) and Kaysa Pritchard (pectoral).
Then there's Newcastle's new signing Carlos Tuimavave (ankle).
And Sharks youngster Fa'amanu Brown requires a knee reconstruction.
"It (no injuries) is a big relief as a coach," Maguire said.
However, the Rabbitohs mentor still vowed to tackle the pre-season head-on.
He claimed everyone available would be considered despite Nines player of the tournament Adam Reynolds dodging a hamstring scare at Eden Park.
They tackle the Dragons in the Charity Shield next weekend ahead of the February 22 World Club Challenge showdown with St Helens in the UK.
"I think you guys (media) think it is probably tougher than anyone," Maguire said of their unprecedented pre-season.
"You talk about the toll but it is not a concern for us.
"It's great to be able to do what we are doing, to be able to go overseas.
"We will always try to put a great team out there if they are available - that's what we do."
Maguire said their upcoming showdown with the Dragons took precedence but his mind still wandered to the UK clash with his old foes St Helens.
Maguire said he knew exactly what to expect following his two-year stint as Wigan coach.
"I think there is talk about them being very excited about us going over there - it will be one hell of a game," he said.
"They are a tough team.
"I spent two years there battling it out against Saints with Wigan.
"They are just as physical as the games over here - we have to turn up ready to go."
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