BARNSTORMING Test fullback Greg Inglis and rugby union-bound Sam Burgess inspired the Rabbitohs to a rugged 28-8 win over world club champions and reigning premiers Sydney Roosters in a high-quality 2014 NRL opener at ANZ Stadium last night.

Inglis motored over for a hat-trick of tries as South Sydney made an emphatic statement of their premiership intentions, muscling clear of the 2013 flag-bearers in a dominant second session.

The monster Rabbitohs forwards, led by a runaway Burgess, hunted as a hungry pack to ruffle the feathers of the fancied Roosters with last-ditch defence after proceedings were locked 6-all at the break.

The Roosters started at a frenetic pace with electrifying centre Michael Jennings launching the season in style, swooping on the dregs of a Daniel Tupou kick-ahead after 10 minutes.

FINAL SCORE: South Sydney 28 (Greg Inglis 3, Bryson Goodwin tries; Adam Reynolds 6 goals) def Sydney Roosters 8 (Michael Jennings try; James Maloney 2 goals).