Club Before Coach: CEO

The club told Taylor to pack up and leave on Thursday, handing John Lang the coaching position coach for the next two seasons.

The decision came after the club investigated an incident between Taylor and prop David Fa'alogo at the team's end of season drink-a-thon at a Sydney pub.

It was alleged Taylor had playfully slapped Fa'alogo before the Kiwi international punched back, causing Taylor to fall down a flight of stairs. Fa'alogo was also sacked on Thursday.

"The incident that occurred on September 6 has undoubtedly done damage to the club's reputation. The game needs to make a stance on our behavioral incidents and each club needs to make their own statement about what is acceptable behavior. We believe this is not acceptable behavior from the head coach of South Sydney. The Rabbitohs want to make it known to their members, supporters, corporate partners and the rugby league community that the club remains determined to set and uphold the highest standards in staff and player behavior. This is not about one or two people. It is about our club, standing up for what we believe is right, and ensuring that we uphold our reputation. "Rabbitohs Shane Richardson told the press

His successor John Lang's last time  coaching  was with Penrith from 2002-2006, which included  premiership  success in 2003 as well as coaching Cronulla from 1994-2001, leading the Sharks to the 1997 Super League grand final which they lost  to Brisbane.