With Gladiator Russell Crowe cheering them on, South Sydney drove the sword into Canberra, effectively killing the Raiders' 2005 National Rugby League season with a 29-16 victory at Canberra Stadium.

It was the Rabbitohs' fourth win from its past five matches, a winning streak that started when the Bunnies began wearing the name of Crowe's latest film - Cinderella Man - on their jerseys.

The victory ensures the battle to avoid the wooden spoon is a hot contest with three more rounds to go as Newcastle snaps at Souths' heels.

But as far as Crowe is concerned, there's only one more match that is essential for the Rabbitohs to win, next week's clash with arch rival the Sydney Roosters.

"I don't want Newcastle to get the wooden spoon, I don't want us to get the wooden spoon," he said inside Souths' dressing rooms where he shared a post-match beer with the players.

"The Roosters can have the whole wooden cutlery drawer as far as I'm concerned."

Crowe travelled to Canberra to spend the evening with the team.

He was also on board in the dressing sheds at the halftime break when Souths were down 12-6.

But the Bunnies were courageous in battle in the second half, scoring 29 unanswered points before Canberra winger Phil Graham scored a 73rd minute consolation try.

"It was really nice to come down, see a good solid win," Crowe said.

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