Parramatta Eels Blog: The 1Eyed Eel

A number of Eels set to leave Parramatta at the end of this year will get the chance to go out on a high note with Brian Smith leaving the team unchanged from the one he named last week, with the exception of Nathan Cayless in for Craig Stapleton.

Chris Thorman and Junior Langi are both off to England, while Lee Hopkins and James Webster appear not to have been offered contracts for 2005. Adam Peek's future is also unknown at this stage.

Langi has exceeded expectations this year securing a regular centre spot, while Lee Hopkins and James Webster have been great Parramatta club men, who have always impressed with their effort and enthusiasm. Chris Thorman, after a rocky start, has started to get more comfortable with the standard of play in the NRL late in the season and will return to England a better player for the experience. He has said if he has another crack at the NRL, Parramatta is the only club he would return to.

Nathan Cayless takes back the captaincy.

1- Wade McKINNON
2 – Ashley GRAHAM
3 – Junior LANGI
4 – Luke BURT
5 – Matt PETERSEN
6 – Chris THORMAN
7 – Michael WITT
8 – Corey PEARSON
9 – Lee HOPKINS
10 – Michael VELLA
11 – Nathan HINDMARSH
12 – Nathan CAYLESS (C)
13 – Daniel WAGON
14 – James WEBSTER
15 - Dean WIDDERS
16 – Adam PEEK
17 – Justin TSOULOS

Parramatta's lower grade teams have both secured spots in the finals but will be fighting to finish as high as possible when they take on the crack Roosters Premier League and Jersey Flegg outfits.

Parramatta won both lower grade games against Penrith/Cougars on the weekend, despite their rivals being higher on the ladder in both grades.

Jersey Flegg, who are currently running sixth beat the third placed Panthers 26 to 22, while the Premier League team, led by half Tim Smith, easily accounted for the Cougars who were running fourth. In doing so they overtook the Cougars and moved into fifth place.

However, both Roosters lower grades have been impressive this year. The Premier League team is running second while their Jersey Flegg outfit is undefeated.

Parramatta is running sixth and must hope a loss doesn't drop them to eighth meaning a repeat do-or-die match agains the Roosters in the first round of the finals.

The Eels Premier League team is looking impressive. It's stacked with Parramatta's junior stars plus a number of NRL quality players Moimoi, Muspratt, Cannings, Armit and Muckert.

Jersey Flegg, has its share of potential stars, with Brett Anderson - who played NRL this year, Blake Green - the current Australian schoolboys halfback, as well Weller Huaraki and Josh Cordoba - both of whom proved themselves up to Premier League standard during the year. Guy Williams has won his way into the starting team at lock.

Premier League
1 - Joel REDDY
2 – Matt GRUSZKA
3 – Brett DELANEY
4 – Luke O’DWYER
5 – John WILLIAMS
6 – Feleti MATEO
7 – Tim SMITH
8 – Fuifui MOIMOI
9 – Shane MUSPRATT
10 – Aaaron CANNINGS
11 – Jack AFAMASAGA
12 – Chris ARMIT
13 – Chris MUCKERT

14 – Peter ELLIS
15 – Jeremiah PAI
16 – Jim CURTS
17 – Steve MOWBRAY
18 – Fred PETERSEN

Jersey Flegg

1 – Brett ANDERSON
2 – Paul MARZELLA
3 – Thomas MacGOUGAN
4 – Michael BASAN
5 – Joel ASHER
6 – Blake GREEN
7 – Dane QUEENAN
8 – Zeb TAIA
9 – Scott JONES
10 – Josh CORDOBA
11 – Brendan OAKE
12 – Weller HAURAKI
13 – Guy WILLIAMS

14 – Nathan ARMIT
15 – Chris LAW
16 – Brad McLEVEY
17 – Ben TAIA
18 – Matt KEATING
19 – Simon GREAVES
20 – Kris INU

Craig Stapleton's season looks over after he was charged with a Grade One Striking charge.

Even if he takes a guilty plea, he will miss the Eels last match against the Roosters. Stapleton, who is the only Eel to have played every match this season, will need to contest the charge if he is to play out the entire year.

It's possible that Stapleton - who, outside of Nathan Hindmarsh, has been Parramatta's most consistent performer throughout 2004, has played his last game in the Blue and Gold.

Stapleton has not yet been resigned by the Eels and has been strongly linked to the Tigers. With the number of players the Eels have brought into the squad for next year, they may find it difficult to keep Stapleton whose worth will have increased considerably following his stellar season with Parramatta.

Despite reports last week that Nathan Cayless has extended his contract, it appears that pen has not yet been put to paper.

The Daily Telegraph today reported that Cayless' manager Wayne Beavis has met with Eels management and that the Eels will meet with Cayless himself on Thursday.

Cayless wants to sign until the end of 2007, the report said.

Wade McKinnon: 5 (94)
His running game was great as always but made some uncharacteristic errors, most notably his attempt to get a pass away under pressure that saw the Panthers score and get back on level terms.

Ashley Graham: 3 (62)
Still seems all at sea on the wing. Made some bad judgement errors fielding kicks, the first of which enabled Luke Rooney to open the scoring for the Panthers and then put the Eels under enormous pressure when he was driven back into goal when attempting to bring the ball away from his line. Has had a tough season playing out of position. Let's hope a solid off-season can see Graham fulfill his undoubted potential next year.

Dean Widders - 7 (135)
What footwork this guy has for a big man. Was always dangerous with limited opportunities.

Luke Burt: 5 (123)
Was probably the man to blame for not lining up on his man when Rhys Wesser scored. Didn't really get into the game in attack.

Matthew Petersen: 9 (115)
Just keeps getting better and better. Scored a try and effort to bust tackles then slip a fantastic pass to put Wade McKinnon away was sensational. Constantly beat his opposing winger and also came up with at least one try-saving tackle.

Chris Thorman - 5 (49)
Missed tackle on Preson Campbell was the turning point of the game. Lovely kick, though, in behind the line should have resulted in a try for Hopkins late in the game.

Michael Witt - 5 (51)
Parramatta looked directionless again at times, especially late in the game when either Witt or Thorman needed to step up and control the team.

Corey Pearson - 6 (72)
Defence was good but was hardly seen in attack with only three hit-ups all game.

Lee Hopkins - 7 (91)
Plenty of effective running out of dummy half. If only he'd been able to touch down on the Chris Thorman grubber!

Michael Vella - 6 (128)
Like Pearson, hardly seen in attack with just four hit-ups.

Nathan Hindmarsh - 7 (146)
Tried to get involved at every opportunity but the Panthers did remarkably well to contain Parra's most dangerous player

Craig Stapleton - 8 (146)
Absolutely worked his tail off all night. Made 41 tackles and 11 hit ups.

Daniel Wagon - 7 (122)
Nice pass to put Widders over the line early in the game and contributed his usual defensive excellence.

James Webster - 6 (44)
Made a positive contribution when he came onto the field with one great line break.

Adam Peek - 7 (77)
Outshone starting front rowers Vella and Pearson. Has really stood up since coming back from suspension.

Justin Tsoulos - 6 (95)
Did his job and helped counter the big Penrith forwards.

Nathan Cayless - 8 (64)
Inspirational return to NRL. Almost single handedly reversed the tide of the game making great metres on his hit-ups and was always there trying to put pressure on the kicker. Showed how important he is to the Parramatta side and why the Eels have struggled without him.

As of this week, this humble little blog has been served up more than 20,000 times!

What started out as a bit of an experiment is now being read by hundreds of Eels fans each week and it has been a thoroughly rewarding experience for me and hopefully a useful resource for Parra supporters everywhere.

A very big thank you for all the people who said thanks or well done along the way. Those kind words kept me going when I started to doubt I could find the time to keep going and helped the 1Eyed Eel complete its debut season.

I have no doubt 2005 is going to be a big year for the Parramatta Eels – the quality and depth that Parramatta is assembling in its playing ranks for next season is quite remarkable. Like the Eels, this website has every intention of returning bigger and better for the start of the new season but in the meantime we’ll continue to bring you any developments that take place during the finals and off-season. It would appear there are a number of big announcements still to be made regarding 2005.

Jack Afamasaga has been named the Eels rookie of the year, having played nine first grade games in 2004.

Afamasaga is 20 and joined the club last year from Wellington, New Zealand.

“This is a great honour and something that has taken me by surprise. You only have to look at some of the previous winners to realise what a special award it is,” Afamasaga was quoted as saying in the media release.

Despite the depth of talent in the Parramatta squad, 2004 wasn't a year where a young player was really able to establish himself in the Eels NRL squad. Luke O'Dwyer was looking good earlier in the year, but an injury all but ended his season, while Ben Smith and Feleti Mateo made late season debuts in the NRL.

PJ Marsh passed a medical clearance on Friday and is "poised" to join the Parramatta club this week, the Sydney Morning Herald has reported.

Steve Mascord quoted Marsh's manager as confirming the half/hooker had recieved a clearance while coach Brian Smith confirmed the Eels were talking to PJ.

"He does have some [more] medical tests coming up and we wouldn't be signing him unless the results are positive. But we have had some talks and hopefully we'll be able to finalise something in the next few days," Smith said.

Marsh's manager said there was one other club, which has previously been reported as being South Sydney, who were interested in his services.

Parramatta assistant coach Rocket Reddy was instrumental in getting exciting young forward, Daniel Backo, to sign a two-year deal with the Parramatta club.

The Sunday Telegraph confirmed news that Backo had signed with the Eels, reporting the contract was for two years and came after an approach from Reddy at the Queensland Schoolboy Carnival.

"Rocket said he was interested and they have been watching me for the last few weeks. I'm really looking forward to the opportunity and, hopefully, I can improve things in my game and become a first-grader," he said in the report.

Daniel's legendary footballing father, Sam Backo, said he was happy for his son to be at the Parramatta club, rather than with the Broncos.

"They only look after their top 25 and have one good young player and forget about the others . . . I'm certainly happy to have my young bloke out of there. At the end of the day, though, he made his own decision and I know Rocket and the Parramatta club are going to look after him down there."

Backo is 185cm and weighs more than 100kg and can play prop or second row.

Parramatta's season is over after they went down to the Penrith Panthers 30 to 20 at Parramatta Stadium tonight.

The Eels got off to a great start jumping to a 12 nil lead in the first five minutes. Dean Widders, playing in the centres after Junior Langi withdrew, strolled over for a simple try off a Daniel Wagon pass. Matt Peterson then scored only a couple of minutes later and the Eels were looking good.

However, the Panthers struck back. Luke Rooney jumped above Ashley Graham to score from a cross-field kick and then Wade McKinnon had a brain explosion, trying to force pass when returning the ball from a kick and only finding Joe Galuvao who picked up the ball and scored.

The Panthers went into the halftime break leading 18 to 14, following a Michael Witt goal and a try to Rhys Wesser.

However, the Eels fought back strongly early in the second half with Matt Peterson busting three tackles then slipping a ball to Wade McKinnon, who had enough pace to get away from his opposition fullback and score.

However, a bad Chris Thorman miss on Preston Campbell who pushed off the Englishman than sprint away to score outwide put the Eels behind again. That lead was pushed out to eight when Tony Puletua crashed over wide out on the back of sustained possesion.

The Eels went down trying though. A nice Thorman grubber saw Parramatta players converge on the ball before it popped up for Corey Pearson, however the video referee Mick Stone ruled the ball had been knocked on by Lee Hopkins.

The Eels then ran out of patience trying to score on every play and only created a succession of errors that enabled the Panthers to hold onto their lead and knock the Eels out of the 2004 competition.

Nathan Cayless played good minutes in the middle of the game and was inspirational for his team, showing just how much his presence has been missed throughout the competition.

In addition to the signing of Nathan Hindmarsh, Parramatta captain Nathan Cayless has also extended his contract for a further three years.

He told AAP: ""I've got a bit to put back into the place after the last couple of years - I'm looking forward to it. I'm happy at Parramatta - they have looked after me."

Cayless noted a lot of Parramatta's new signings had put pen to paper for three years, meaning the club will have a stable base to work from over the next few years.

"They wanted to keep a few players together, I was pretty happy to stay there," Cayless said.

Cayless said he was excited but nervous about returning for the Eels tonight against the Panthers.

"I haven't played for four months. It's always like that when you are coming back for your first game. It will be good to get out there, obviously not playing for so long I can ease my way back into it."

Nathan Hindmarsh is likely to be an Eel for life, with Parramatta announcing an upgrade to his contract for next year and tying him to the Eels until 2008.

In a media release, Hindmarsh said: “It is obviously a big relief to re-sign. It has been playing on my mind a bit so I am really glad to have it sorted out".

“The Club is really going places – not only in who we have recruited, but also in terms of the current players and coaching staff. At the end of the day, it all came down to the fact that I love playing my footy for Parramatta – I consider myself a Parramatta man. I played my first game in First Grade in 1998 and to still be here in 2008 is something that is very special to me."

Denis Fitzgerald said that Hindmarsh would be rewarded with life membership at the end of this contract, "an honour benefiting his stature".

Coach Brian Smith was quoted in the release as saying: "I’ve said so many times this year that Nathan Hindmarsh is an inspiration, and I mean that in every sense.

Everyone from the President, to Nathan’s team mates, the coaching and office staff, and most importantly the fans, will be ecstatic with this news.

Everyone loves players who are able to stick with the one Club, and Nathan has been able to do that. I don’t think I am overstating it when I say this contract will ensure he goes down as one of the true legends of this great Club."

According to The Daily Telegraph Hindmarsh will be paid $350,000 per year making him the highest paid player in the club.

Peter Sharp is to take over the assistant coach position at Parramatta from Alan Wilson, The Daily Telegraph has reported.

Sharp, who was Craig Bellamy's assistant this year, and prior to that coached Manly/Northern Eagles has signed on as coach Brian Smith's assistant for the next two years.

Sharp, a former Eels player was Reserve Grade coach in 1997 and assistant coach in 1998.

The story said Alan Wilson is "expected" to leave the club at the end of the season.

Four Parramatta greats have been named in the Team of the 80's but the mighty Mick Cronin has missed out.

Ironically, his spot in the centres was taken by Brett Kenny, who was pushed out of his regular five-eighth spot by Wally Lewis.

The other threat greats were half back Peter Sterling, winger Eric Grothe and lock-forward Ray Price.

The full-squad is: Garry Jack (Balmain); Kerry Boustead (Eastern Suburbs/Manly), Brett Kenny (Parramatta), Mal Meninga (Canberra), Eric Grothe (Parramatta); Wally Lewis (Wynnum/Brisbane), Peter Sterling (Parramatta); Ray Price (Parramatta), Noel Cleal (Manly/Eastern Suburbs), Les Boyd (Manly), Craig Young (St George), Ben Elias (Balmain), Steve Roach (Balmain).

The Sydney Morning Herald commented on Cronin's ommission noting he "still holds the Eels record for goals in a match, points in a season and points overall".

"He will probably get strong support if a Team of the 70's is picked" the story said.

Captain Courageous Nathan Cayless has been cleared to make his return to the NRL this week against the Panthers.

AAP has reported that after having X-rays today at Baulkham Hills hospital Cayless has been passed as fit to play.

The report said Cayless has been too depressed to follow the football closely since he broke his arm playing against North Queensland.

Assuming Cayless is picked to play, the question left to answer is will he start and who will be dropped to make way for the Eels skipper.

Based on past selection decisions, Justin Tsoulos, who scored his first try for the year against the Warriors last week would seem the most likely to drop down to one of the lower grades.

Cayless told The Daily Telegraph that his injury had shown him the importance of enjoying his football.

"I guess that's what you learn when you are away from football, that you've got to enjoy your footy. I've been guilty of being a bit too serious in the past and when you are injured you learn that you don't know when you are going to be playing so you have to enjoy every week and every moment," he told the paper.

The Panthers will certainly have no excuses against the Eels this weekend fielding a near full-strength team packed with internationals and Origin level performers.

Only Ryan Girdler, Luke Swain and Ben Ross are missing from a team boasting eleven players who have represented at Origin or international level. Indeed, the only players in the starting team not to have represented are arguably Penrith's two most dynamic players Amos Roberts and Preston Campbell.

1. Rhys Wesser, 2. Amos Roberts, 3. Luke Lewis, 4. Paul Whatuira, 5. Luke Rooney, 6. Preston Campbell, 7. Craig Gower (c), 8. Joel Clinton, 9. Luke Priddis, 10. Martin Lang, 11. Joe Galuvao, 12. Tony Puletua, 13. Trent Waterhouse. Interchange: 14. Garret Crossman, 15. Frank Pritchard, 16. Shane Rodney, 17. Danny Galea, 18. Richard Fa'aoso (one to be omitted)

Parramatta coach Brian Smith has shown faith in the team that thrashed the Warriors last week naming an unchanged side to take on reigning premiers Penrith this weekend.

There is a chance of late changes, however, with Eels captain Nathan Cayless confirming he is a chance of playing against Penrith.

AAP quoted Cayless as saying he was "keen as mustard" to play again and that he thought he was a chance to return last week, but doctors are being cautious due to it being a second break, and ruled him out as being not "quite right".

"I feel good and I've been doing a lot of tackling at training," he told AAP.

Meanwhile, Adam Dykes has been listed as "not considered" despite being named as 18th man last week.

Update: Broadcast reports say that Cayless will play.

1- Wade McKINNON
2 – Ashley GRAHAM
3 – Junior LANGI
4 – Luke BURT
5 – Matt PETERSEN
6 – Chris THORMAN
7 – Michael WITT
8 – Corey PEARSON
9 – Lee HOPKINS
10 – Michael VELLA
11 – Nathan HINDMARSH
12 – Craig STAPLETON
13 – Daniel WAGON ©
14 – James WEBSTER
15 - Dean WIDDERS
16 – Adam PEEK
17 – Justin TSOULOS

Jack Afamasaga has been promoted to back to Premier League after spending a couple of weeks in Jersey Flegg, while Jeremiah Pai has finally broken back into the reserve starting team.

Coming off a good win last week, the Eels are fielding a very strong Premier League forward pack laden with NRL experience against the Cougars. With Pai at lock, Afamasaga and Chris Muckert in the second row, Fuifui Moimoi and Chris Armit the starting props and Shane Muspratt at hooker, the Eels boast a formidable group of starting forwards.

That pack could get a further boost with Aaron Cannings a possible late inclusion. Cannings played Premier League last week despite not being named and while he is listed as "not considered" again this week, there must be a possibility that he will go around again.

Both Feleti Mateo and Luke O'Dwyer who have played NRL at lock will start in the backline. O'Dwyer will be partnered by the promising Brett Delaney, who has won a promotion from Jersey Flegg while Mateo is back at five-eighth alongside half back Tim Smith. John Williams successful return from injury has seen him keep out Steve Mowbray on the wing, with consistent performer Matt Gruszka on the other flank. Joel Reddy is fullback.

Meanwhile, in Jersey Flegg, the Eels have a new halves combination for their clash against the Panthers. Blake Green has been moved from half to five-eighth with Dane Queenan taking over the number seven duties. Chris Law and Guy Williams who were the halves for last week's dissapointing performance have been dropped back to the bench.

The Jersey Flegg forward pack is also very strong. Zeb Taia, Josh Cordoba, Brendan Oake and Weller Huaraki are all big, talented forwards. Matt Keating has won a promotion to the starting team with Simon Greaves dropping back to the bench.

The Eels also have a new centre pairing with Michael Basan and Thomas MacGougan replacing Nathan Russell and Mark Hendy.

Australian schoolboy representative Nathan Armit, who along with brother Chris, is off to the Bulldogs next year has also been named on the bench.

Premier League

1 - Joel REDDY
2 – Matt GRUSZKA
3 – Brett DELANEY
4 – Luke O’DWYER
5 – John WILLIAMS
6 – Feleti MATEO
7 – Tim SMITH
8 – Fuifui MOIMOI
9 – Shane MUSPRATT
10 – Chris ARMIT
11 – Jack AFAMASAGA
12 – Chris MUCKERT
13 – Jeremiah PAI

14 – Peter ELLIS
15 – Fred PETERSEN
16 – Jim CURTIS
17 – Steve MOWBRAY

Jersey Flegg

1 – Brett ANDERSON
2 – Paul MARZELLA
3 – Thomas MacGOUGAN
4 – Michael BASAN
5 – Joel ASHER
6 – Blake GREEN
7 – Dane QUEENAN
8 – Zeb TAIA
9 – Scott JONES
10 – Josh CORDOBA
11 – Brendan OAKE
12 – Weller HAURAKI
13 – Matt KEATING
14 – Nathan ARMIT
15 – Chris LAW
16 – Brad McLEVEY
17 – Ben TAIA
18 – Guy WILLIAMS
19 – Simon GREAVES

Boom New Zealand half Marcus Perenara and his brother, St George second rower Henry, are both on their way to Parramatta if the New Zealand Herald is to be believed.

Bemoaning the lack of creative options in the New Zealand team, the NZ Herald wrote: "And the loss of clever attackers is apparently continuing with the departure of Marcus Perenara, whose contract was extended to three years last season. The halfback, who has been troubled with injury, is shifting to Parramatta with his brother Henry, who has also missed much of this year at the Dragons."

Many Kiwis believe the younger Perenara is a potential superstar, while Henry Perenara was a top performer for the Dragons in 2003.

Wade McKinnon - 7 (89)
Was again a handful for the opposition, although he didn't get too many opportunities to shine.

Ashley Graham - 6 (59)
Got in and did a fair bit of work this week with 11 hit ups including four dummy half runs for 105 metres. Did well to back up Dean Widders and score a try but really should have bagged two after dropping another over the line.

Junior Langi - 6 (99)
Saw almost no action in either defence or attack, but didn't make any mistakes.

Luke Burt - 7 (118)
Enjoying a strong back half of the season and continued his good form in this game. Aggression in defence was a highlight.

Matthew Petersen - 8 (106)
Would be the second player picked after Hindmarsh based on his form over the last month. Grabbed another try but Petersen's real strength has been his ability to work down a skinny fringe and always stay in play. That has given his centre more room to work with and helped Parramatta finally look threatening out wide.

Chris Thorman - 8 (44)
Best game from a Parramatta five-eighth this year. Set up a number of tries and provided plenty of spark. Shame he won't be in Blue and Gold next year.

Michael Witt - 7 (46)
His best game of the year. Long kick game was good and scored a sensational try. Still needs to work on his short kicking game and there were a few moments he'd rather forget, but he's definitely gaining confidence and playing better for it.

Corey Pearson - 8 (66)
Pearson's contribution often goes unnoticed but he set a superb foundation for the Eels backs with 16 hit-ups for 180 metres and three off-loads. Superbs stats against the big Warriors pack. Was also aggressive in defence and generally inspirational.

Lee Hopkins - 7 (84)
Again provided a lot of spark from dummy half. Won't want to replay the dummy half pass that went to ground and led to Tony Martin's try, though. However, he redeemed himself late in the game with a try of his own.

Michael Vella - 6 (122)
Has been overshadowed by Corey Pearson in recent weeks and made on bad fumble. However, when he did hit the ball up he made good metres and his defence was strong.

Nathan Hindmarsh - 8 (139)
Made less than 30 tackles for the first time in a very long time, but it was again his attack that was a standout. Got heavily involved and constantly caused problems for the Warriors defence.

Craig Stapleton - 7 (138)
Another top performance from Stapleton. Made good metres too and contributed his usual tough defence.

Daniel Wagon - 7 (115)
Didn't do a lot in attack but it was a superb defensive performance. Put on a number of bone jarring tackles that put New Zealand on the backfoot and his kick chase was brilliant.

James Webster - 6 (38)
New Zealand looked like busting through Webster on any number of occassions but to his credit he almost always managed to hang on to a shoe-lace and bring his man down. Also managed to hold up Monty Betham went the New Zealand captain targetting him on-goal. Ironically, in the end it was a small player that left him clutching at air when Lance Hohaia cut through him.
However, his attack out of dummy half was again strong and he scored his own try to make up for the one he let in.

Dean Widders - 7 (128)
1Eyed Eel doubts there is a more impactful interchange forward in the game. Showed quite amazing pace when he got on the outside of the New Zealand centres and then demonstrated amazing presence of mind when he resisted throwing an inside ball when the cover defence was converging, stepped back inside to draw the fullback and instead found Ashley Graham steaming down the touchline. One of the Eels plays of the year!

Adam Peek - 7 (70)
Another top performance off the interchange bench in both attack and defence.

Justin Tsoulos - 6 (89)
Put the offload in the kit bag against the Warriors and concentrated on making good hard runs, which he did well in the time he got on the park.

The Sun Herald yesterday reported that Parramatta has signed another player from Wee Waa - a 15 year old named Zach Russ.

rramatta have not been turned off by the whole Jamie Lyon experience. They have just signed another 15 year old from Wee Waa by the name of Zach Russ.

Coach Brian Smith has left the door open for a return by the likes of Nathan Cayless and Eric Grothe, in his post match interview after the Warriors game.

While the Eels camp are playing down their finals chances, the reality is they can make the eight if they win their remaining two games. It is believed that both Nathan Cayless and Eric Grothe are fit to return, but were set to see out the rest of the year on the sidelines with the Eels seemingly out of finals contentions.

However, a win against the Panthers would mean that the Eels would go into the final week with a hope of making the eight, regardless of other results this weekend.

That could prompt the Eels to thrust their injured stars back into the fray.

Already, the Eels have shown their hand by having Aaron Cannings return in Premier League last week.

Smith said that Cannings would be "in the mix for the top team next week".

And then he added: "We might even have one or two more jump out of the cake next week as well. "

It's hard to imagine Eels captain courageous Nathan Cayless sitting on the sidelines while the Eels mount a last ditch finals campaign and Eric Grothe's return to the wing would be a definite plus to the Eels.

Even John Morris could be a chance. When he fractured his leg, it was reported the injury would keep him out for four weeks. If that was the case he would be due back this week. Adam Dykes is also ready to play. He passed a fitness test last week but was left out as 18th man.

In fact, it is possible that the Eels could start the match against the Panthers with their strongest team of the year.

Of course, a return by any of those players would mean Smith would have to drop one of the players, who have done the job so well over the last two weeks, as all should be available for selection this week.

Both Wade McKinnon and Matt Petersen came off the field with injured shoulders but Smith said they both should be "OK".

While Eels fans cling to the possibility that their team is a slim finals chance, coach Brian Smith remains a doubter - at least publicly.

At the Eels post match press conference, Smith was asked if Parramatta was thinking "something could happen in relation to the finals".

"No, not at all. We recognised a few weeks ago where we were," Smith responded.

"We have been playing some good footy but we have not been playing playoff style of footy."

When it was pointed out Parramatta was just a win outside the eight, Smith said: "Yes we are, but it would be foolish to get ahead of ourselves. We play Penrith next weekend and we would be really happy if we could roll them - that would be fantastic."

The Eels have played since once the expectations of a finals berth was removed from their shoulders.

While admitting his team "did some really nice things, some very entertaining things", Smith said the Warriors and Sharks both were defensively poor in their respective losses.

"To be fair the last 2 teams we have played have been well down on their "d"..we have played some nice football, and certainly some smart football at times."

Asked about the performance of Michael Witt, Smith said he was particularly happy with the half's long kicking game.

"He got into trouble from all of us over that charge down in the first minute of the Sharks game and has done heaps of work this week on his kicking game. Michael took everything on board and it was a real feature of the early part of the game was his control of our kicking game, and particularly when we needed big yardage. It was tremendous, and I am very happy for him. "

The Parramatta Eels have kept their slim finals hopes alive by smashing the New Zealand Warriors by 48 to 18.

The Eels totally outplayed the Warriors and were led well by their young halves combination Michael Witt and Chris Thorman, who provided a lot of the spark and creativity that the Eels have missed all year.

The Eels began at a hundred miles an hour when Matt Peterson was first to a short grubber to make it six nil after only 3 minutes. Five minutes later Michael Witt through a cut out pass to Matt Peterson who found open space, kicked back in field and Witt followed through to make it twelve to nix.

Ashley Graham should have made it three tries in ten minutes but dropped the ball over the line out wide a few minutes later.

With that let off, the Warriors then started to work themselves back into the game, with the Eels taking their foot off the gas. A Lee Hopkins pass from dummy half found no-one except for Tony Martin who ran throught after picking up the ball to touch down untouched.

However, the Eels regained their compusure and Chris Thorman broke the line and sent Wade McKinnon over for a try and then Dean Widders did likewise for Ashley Graham, who made no mistake with his second opportunity.

That gave the Eels a 22 to 6 lead at half-time.

The first points in the second half came from a penalty kick to Michael Witt, however the first try came after Lance Hohaia beat James Webster cold and scored under the post.

But just as the Warriors looked threatening again, Michael Witt threw a dummy from a centre-field scrum inside the New Zealand twenty which was swallowed by all defenders and the young half ran through the hole to score a fine individual try.

When Lee Hopkins scored next the Eels guaranteed themselves victory even though Richard Villasanti went over a couple of minutes later after fielding a wobbly Brent Webb bomb.

Parramatta put the icing on the cake when James Webster redeemed himself for the Hohaia try and then Justin Tsoulos bagged his first try of the year to give the Eels a convincing thirty point victory.

With the Tigers going down to Brisbane, the Eels are now just two points outside of the eighth and currently sit in tenth position ahead of Newcastle and the Raiders who play tomorrow.

Neither Wade McKinnon or Adam Dykes are sure to be fit to play for tomorrow's night game against the Warriors, with both to have late fitness tests tomorrow night, the Sydney Morning Herald has reported.

The Parramatta Eels will have extra motivation for this weekend's clash against the Warriors with the passing of club founder Colonel Jack Argent.

The Eels wrote in a media release that Argent was "the founder of the Parramatta District Rugby League Club, and the man responsible for the Clubs entry into the NSWRL competition in 1947. In fact, as early as 1935, Colonel Argent was lobbying the NSWRL to include the Parramatta Club into the competition. "

The release quoted Denis Fitzgerald as saying: "To this very day, the Parramatta Leagues Club is still referred to as ‘The House that Jack built’, as his company carried out the construction of the building that opened in 1959. No-one has made a greater contribution to this Club and it is a very sad day for everyone associated with it".

Jamie Lyon has officially signed with the English Super League club St Helens for the next two years.

St Helens coach Ian Millward described the signing as the biggest since the club signed Mal Meninga.

The story "quoted" Lyon as saying: "I am raring to play for the Saints, particularly as I will be linking up with Darren Albert, the quickest winger in the British game. St Helens impressed me by their clear ambition to remain a leading world rugby force and they stood out from all the Clubs which showed interest in me, even in Australia."

1Eyed Eel recalls Lyon saying in an audio interview on the official Eels site at the start of this year that he was raring to play, too.

Players from Parramatta and Souths will march in protest against the proposed NSW pokie tax, which it is claimed threatens the existence of many football clubs and the code itself, The Daily Telegraph has reported.

Eels captain Nathan Cayless was quoted as saying: "There is a real fear for the game's future."

The march to NSW parliament house will take place on September 1.

Outside back John Williams has been named for the first time in a Parramatta jersey this week in a new look centre pairing for the Eels Premier League game against the Magpies.

Williams, who was named in the Eels top squad at the beginning of this year, suffered a serious neck injury that has kept him out of action for most of the season, however he returned to football last week against the Sharks. His centre partner will be versatile, young Eel Brett Delaney, who has played centre, five-eighth and lock already this year.

Luke O'Dwyer has moved back into the lock position with Josh Cordoba named in the second row. Weller Huaraki is missing, presumably injured. Other Eels not named in lower grade teams this week are Jersey Flegg half Blake Green or centre Matt Lantry. Jack Afamasaga has been retained in the youth team.

Premier League

1 - Joel REDDY
2 – Matt GRUSZKA
3 – Brett DELANEY
4 – John WILLIAMS
5 – Steve MOWBRAY
6 – Feleti MATEO
7 – Tim SMITH
8 – Fuifui MOIMOI
9 – Shane MUSPRATT
10 – Chris ARMIT
11 – Josh CORDOBA
12 – Chris MUCKERT
13 – Luke O’DWYER

14 – Peter ELLIS
15 – Jeremiah PAI
16 – Jim CURTS

Jersey Flegg

1 – Brett ANDERSON
2 – Paul MARZELLA
3 – Nathan RUSSELL
4 – Mark HENDY
5 – Joel ASHER
6 – Guy WILLIAMS
7 – Chris LAW
8 – Zeb TAIA
9 – Scott JONES
10 – Brendan OAKE
11 – Jack AFAMASAGA
12 – Thomas MACGOUGAN
13 – Simon GREAVES

14 – Brendan HUNT
15 – Jesse SHELLEY
16 – Brad McLEVEY
17 – Ben TAIA
18 – Matt KEATING

Adam Dykes is fit to play but has been named at number 18 for this week's match against the Warriors.

Wade McKinnon has also been named at fullback with Luke Burt returning to the centres, alongside Junior Langi, who is back from injury.

The successful combination of Witt at half and Thorman at pivot has been retained.

1- Wade McKINNON
2 - Ashley GRAHAM
3 - Junior LANGI
4 - Luke BURT
5 - Matt PETERSEN
6 - Chris THORMAN
7 - Michael WITT
8 - Corey PEARSON
9 - Lee HOPKINS
10 - Michael VELLA
11 - Nathan HINDMARSH
12 - Craig STAPLETON
13 - Daniel WAGON ©

14 - James WEBSTER
15 - Dean WIDDERS
16 - Adam PEEK
17 - Justin TSOULOS
18 - Adam DYKES

The Australian has reported that Jamie Lyon is now "on the verge" of signing with St Helens.

The article claimed Lyon rejected an offer from the Wests Tigers and that both Penrith and Canberra withdrew interest because of salary cap limitations.

Yet another Eel is heading to the UK with front rower Mal Kaufusi joining the London Broncos, Sky Sports has reported.

Exciting young centre Ben Smith is out of contention for this week's match after suffering a fractured cheekbone, the Sydney Morning Herald has reported.

However, the paper reported that Nathan Cayless and Aaron Cannings could make their returns.

It also made not of the effort of young Eels recruit Josh Davis, from Wellington, who scored three tries in the Junior Kiwis victory over the England Academy on the weekend.

This weekend contains a couple of games that will be pivotal to the makeup of the final eight.

The Eels can still make the finals if they win all of their remaining games and a couple of key games go their way.

Right now, the Cowboys and Tigers stand in their way of any shot at the finals. If both teams win, the Eels season is over.

The Tigers have a real opportunity to all but wrap up a finals position against what is shaping up as a heavily undermanned Broncos outfit. Darren Lockyer, Gordon Tallis, Shane Webcke and Shaun Berrigan are all likely to miss this weekend's match.

Meanwhile, the Cowboys will also have a chance to secure a finals spot if they beat the out-of-sorts Panthers. The Panther's star try scorer Amos Roberts is in doubt.

If other results go as expected, that is the Roosters to beat the Raiders and the Dragons to beat the Knights, then it is possible that the Eels could be sitting only two points outside the eight in tenth position after this weekend's round. A win agains the Panthers next week, would then mean they would go into the final match against the Roosters with a real chance of sneaking into the finals.

Luke Burt - 7 (111)
"When he was good, he was very, very good but when he was bad he was horrid". Burt was flung into the fullback role, following the late but expected withdrawal of Wade McKinnon and showed once again that he is a devastating open play runner. Bagged two tried himself and created a number of opportunities, but was probably also responsible for allowing a couple of tries, after he failed to clean up short kicks.

Ashley Graham - 6 (53)
Did some nice things and scored a try but the Sharks looked most likely when attacking his wing.

Ben Smith - 6 (17)
Didn't get a lot of opportunities but produced a solid performance in only his third NRL game.

Junior Langi - 6 (93)
Like Smith, a solid game, in which the Cronulla centres were well contained.

Matthew Peterson - 8 (98)
Couldn't have done anymore. Scored two good winger's tries and saved one, as well, with some aggressive cover defence. Has really come of age, in the back half of this season.

Chris Thorman - 7 (36)
Looked much more comfortable at pivot than half and not burdened with the responsibility of controlling the team. Always looked dangerous when taking on the line.

Michael Witt - 6 (39)
Developed confidence as the game wore on and it was probably the best he looked all year. Goal kicking was excellent.

Corey Pearson - 7 (58)
Usual hard-working performance, highlighted by some smart offloads.

Lee Hopkins - 7 (77)
Excellent second half in which he created a couple of tries.

Michael Vella - 7 (116)
Didn't get a lot of game time, but produced some good runs when he was on the field.

Nathan Hindmarsh - 9 (131)
Led the way getting heavily involved from the opening minutes. Made an enormous 26 hit ups and was a constant threat whenever in possession. His try gave the Eels an enormous boost and his performance was near faultless.

Craig Stapleton - 7 (131)
Like Vella was used in moderation but was very aggressive and strong when on the park. Made good metres and his defence was strong.

Daniel Wagon - 6 (108)
Defence was, as always, strong.

James Webster - 7 (32)
Literally turned the game when he came on. Provided terrific service as well making a couple of sharp darts.

Dean Widders - 7 (121)
Again provided terrific impact off the bench and scored a great try.

Adam Peek - 7 (63)
Easily his best game of the year for the Eels. Consistently made big metres (10 hitups for 108 metres) and was rewarded with plenty of game time.

Justin Tsoulos - 7 (83)
This is the Justin Tsoulos we'd like to see every week. Came on and got heavily involved making 13 rampaging hit ups. Got away a couple of good balls as well and provided terrific impact off the bench.

With few, if any, Sydney clubs in a position to sign Jamie Lyon, English club St Helens wants to throw their hat into the ring, according to the Sun Herald.

The Sunday newspaper reported that St Helens would be prepared to pay $500,000 a season for the services of Lyon.

After much speculation it has been confirmed that Chris and Nathan Armit will leave Parramatta next year to join the Canterbury Bulldogs.

Armit, 21, and Nathan, 18, both singed with the Dogs for two seasons, according to release issued by the club.

A 1Eyed Eel reader has claimed that another former Eel will be returning home, with Denis Moran, a prolific try scorer in the English Super League about to sign a three year deal. See comment below.

The Parramatta Eels finally showed the form they're capable of thrashing the Cronulla Sharks 44 to 22.

In doing so, they kept their slim finals hopes alive, and remain a mathematical possibility of making the eight.

The Eels got off to a terrible start when Michael Witt's clearing kick in the opening minute was charged down by Paul Gallen who showed a clean pair of heels to beat the covering Parramatta defence.

However, the Eels regathered and struck back when a Luke Burt grubber deflected of the Sharks defence was picked up by Junior Langi who turned the ball back inside to a trailing Luke Burt he went over to put the Eels on level turns.

The Eels then hit the lead when Nathan Hindmarsh took advantage of a sustained period of Eels attack to step through some flimsy defence close to the line to score. Dean Widders did likewise just before half time and the Eels went into the break leading 18 to 6.

The Eels continued their dominance into the second half and scored tries almost at will. Matt Peterson scored two tries in a fine wingers performance and Ashley Graham also scored out wide. Luke Burt bagged his double and Daniel Wagon put the icing on the cake when he strolled over outwide in the final minute.

Nathan Hindmarsh again led the way but it was very much a team performance with all players doing their bit. James Webster in his first game back in the NRL for many, many weeks was very effective off the bench and helped the Eels skip away late in the second half.

Parramatta centre Junior Langi is the latest Eel off to the UK, having been signed by Super League club Salford, SportingLife.com has reported.

Salford's football director said: "He's a giant for a centre. He's a young, enthusiastic bloke who will add a lot to us.

"We've been chasing him for a while actually and it's come off. He's told Paramatta he prefers to come to England and the deal's been done."

The Jamie Lyon circus continues with the St George Illawarra Dragons the latest club to be linked to Jamie Lyon.

The Daily Telegraph reported today that uncle and manager Mick Smith has approached Dragons coach Nathan Brown, about recruiting the run-away star.

The Raiders and West Tigers have also been allowed to talk to Lyon but both have expressed frustration that the fact that Lyon is constantly changing managers is making progress difficult. Lyon hired high-profile manager Wayne Beavis, but Beavis ended his association with Lyon when the former Eels star proved impossible to track down.

The story said that Parramatta would request a $150,000 release fee meaning a two-year contract at $300,000 per year would cost any club who wants him $750,000.

It seems ridiculous that the Dragons, who already have a State of Origin centre pairing in Matt Cooper and Mark Gasnier, and who have had much-publicised salary cap issues, would even come into the frame for Lyon's services.

The New Zealand Herald has reported that PJ Marsh is confident his orthopaedic specialist will give him a clearance to play in October.

"He'll give me a clearance, I'm quite confident of that," Marsh said.

However, the quesiton is when will Marsh return. The article suggested that PJ may take "a year or so off".

Brett Kimmorley's comeback has been postponed and the Eels will now face the Sharks without their skipper and key playmaker, AAP has reported.

The Australian reported that his place in the team would be taken by Jason Kent.

Rumours that PJ Marsh would rejoin Parramatta appear to be on the money, with the brilliant, but injured half/hooker granted a release today by the New Zealand Warriors, the New Zealand Herald has reported.

The story said "Marsh and his wife, Kelly, are returning to Sydney for the birth of their first child".

"I have enjoyed my time in Auckland as I have played my best football here. I went on to play in a Grand Final and played State of Origin for Queensland from the Warriors," Marsh was quoted as saying.

Results of Marsh' latest surgery, which will determine if he can play again after suffering a career-threatening neck injury are not yet know, but if successful it would seem likely he may again wear Blue and Gold.

As expected, Parramatta half Adam Dykes is returning to his old stomping ground, signing a three-year deal with Cronulla tonight, AAP has reported.

The Eels have agreed to release Dykes from the final year of his contract.

Brian Smith has finally delivered the halves combination that many Eels fans have been asking for all year with Michael Witt at half back and Adam Dykes back to his favourite position of five-eighth.

Junior Langi also returns from injury and has been slotted back into the starting team, alongside Luke Burt in the three-quarters. Ashley Graham is also back on the wing.

Wade McKinnon has been named at fullback, despite media suggestions that a leg injury would likely rule him out for the rest of the season.

Lee Hopkins has been named as starting hooker, with James Webster making a belated return to the NRL after being out of favour for most of the year.

1- Wade McKINNON
2 – Ashley GRAHAM
3 – Junior LANGI
4 – Luke BURT
5 – Matt PETERSEN
6 – Adam DYKES
7 – Michael WITT
8 – Corey PEARSON
9 – Lee HOPKINS
10 – Michael VELLA
11 – Nathan HINDMARSH
12 – Craig STAPLETON
13 – Daniel WAGON (C)
14 – James WEBSTER
15 - Dean WIDDERS
16 – Adam PEEK
17 – Justin TSOULOS

Ben Smith, Luke O'Dwyer, Shane Muspratt, Jack Afamasaga and Chris Thorman have all been dropped after starting for the Eels in NRL last game.

While Afamasaga, Smith, Muspratt and Thorman all had unhappy games against the Tigers, O'Dwyer might consider himself unlucky after making a solid return to the NRL.

All return to Premier League this week with the exception of Afamasaga who finds himself back in Jersey Flegg.

He appears to have been kept out of Premier League by Weller Huaraki, who has retained his starting position in 1st division while Feleti Mateo is back at lock.

Chris Thorman will play at five-eighth alongside half back Tim Smith.

Josh Cordoba returns from injury in a very strong Jersey Flegg team, which has Brett Anderson named at fullback and Brett Delaney at lock.

Premier League

1 - Joel REDDY
2 – Matt GRUSZKA
3 – Ben SMITH
4 – Luke O’DWYER
5 – Steve MOWBRAY
6 – Chris THORMAN
7 – Tim SMITH
8 – Fuifui MOIMOI
9 – Shane MUSPRATT
10 – Chris ARMIT
11 – Weller HAURAKI
12 – Chris MUCKERT
13 – Feleti MATEO
14 – Peter ELLIS
15 – Fred PETERSEN
16 – Jeremiah PAI
17 – Jim CURTS

Jersey Flegg

1 – Brett ANDERSON
2 – Paul MARZELLA
3 – Nathan RUSSELL
4 – Mark HENDY
5 – Joel ASHER
6 – Guy WILLIAMS
7 – Chris LAW
8 – Josh CORDOBA
9 – Scott JONES
10 – Brendan OAKE
11 – Jack AFAMASAGA
12 – Thomas MACGOUGAN
13 – Brett DELANEY

14 – Brendan HUNT
15 – Jesse SHELLEY
16 – Brad McLEVEY
17 – Ben TAIA
18 – Simon GREAVES
19 – Zeb TAIA

Nathan Hindmarsh has told The Sunday Telegraph that he'd "like an upgrade" if he signs with the Eels again next year.

"Look, I can't complain with what I'm on, but I'd like an upgrade next year. That comes down to Parramatta in the end. There's a rumour the new blokes have been signed to massive contracts, although I don't know how true that is.

"But when my contract runs out, I have to look at my future and see where I go. I'll be 26 next year and the next contract is the most important I'll sign in my career. It might be the last contract I ever sign, so I want to make the right decision.

Hindmarsh also indicated his decision would also be dependent on Parra becoming premiership contenders again next year.

"I'm hoping the club gets some results next year. I play rugby league to win a premiership and you wouldn't sign at a non-successful club, I'd have to look at the players they've got and the coach they've got before I sign anywhere.

"I'd like to remain an Eel for a long time, but we'll wait and see what happens. I'll play the cards I'm dealt."

The captain-coach of the Wee Waa Panthers has said that Jamie Lyons has "itchy feet" and is keen to get back to the NRL, according to reports.

"He wanted to play with his mates and that's what he's done. He's loved it, he's had a whale of a time and if we can get a title it will make him come back sooner I reckon, he'd be as keen as."

“He's trying to win a grand final for us and then look at the NRL, he says he will cross that bridge (the NRL) when he comes to it.”

The Penrith Panthers, who were reportedly offered Lyon's services, have said they would not be able to fit him under their cap and since then the Tigers and Raiders have put their hands up as a possible home for the runaway Eel.

Even the Gold Coast Dolphins have offered to sign Lyon, even though they're not yet an NRL team and can't be before 2006, according to this article.

"If Jamie can sort something out with Parramatta we have told his management that we would be very interested in signing him. While we wouldn't come into the competition until 2006 we would employ him next year," said Gold Coast director Michael Searle.

In the Sun Herald today, Lyon's former mentor Noel Cleal, now aligned with the Manly camp, has come out publicly saying that Lyon should be allowed to play for whoever he likes.

However, Parra boss Denis Fitzgerald responded by saying that Lyon is under contract and would be expected to honour it.

Cronulla is claiming that they will have Adam Dykes signed by tomorrow.

An AAP report quoted Sharks boss Steve Rogers as saying: "I'm confident it's going to happen."

Meanwhile, rumours abound that Parramatta may welcome back one of its former stars, with PJ Marsh tipped to be returning to the Eels if doctors pass him as fit to play again next year.

The Daily Telegraph has reported that Parramatta may offer Jamie Lyon a release to join Penrith.

Lyon's secondary manager and uncle Mick Kelly is a former Panther and wants to see his nephew play for the club. He has approached the Eels about the possibility of a release.

Parramatta CEO Denis Fitzgerald said: ""We were approached by Mick Kelly about Jamie joining Penrith. Jamie has said he didn't like city life but Penrith is a semi-rural area.

"We are only discussing the issue at this stage. We haven't released him - I want to make that point."

The Eels have refused point blank to discuss a release for Lyon to join Manly, a move which the Manly club is claiming may be a "restraint of trade".

Another youngster with big wraps is making his way throught the ranks with Weller Huaraki being named in the starting second row of this week's Premier League team.

Ben Smith, Luke O'Dwyer and Shane Muspratt, who all played NRL last week, find themselves going around in Premier League this week.

Like Jack Afamasaga, Feleti Mateo, Ben Smith, Joel Reddy and Tim Smith, Huaraki began the year in the Eels Jersey Flegg squad but is now progressing through the ranks. He has come off the bench in Premier League a couple of times but has now earned a starting spot ahead of the likes of Peter Ellis, Jeremiah Pai and Fred Peterson.

Meanwhile, Brett Delaney has been moved to lock and Brett Anderson to fullback in Jersey Flegg.

Premier League

1 - Joel REDDY
2 – Matt GRUSZKA
3 – Ben SMITH
4 – Luke O’DWYER
5 – Steve MOWBRAY
6 – Feleti MATEO
7 – Tim SMITH
8 – Fuifui MOIMOI
9 – James WEBSTER (C)
10 – Chris ARMIT
11 – Weller HAURAKI
12 – Chris MUCKERT
13 – Shane MUSPRATT
14 – Peter ELLIS
15 – Fred PETERSEN
16 – Jeremiah PAI
17 – Jim CURTIS

Jersey Flegg

1 – Brett ANDERSON
2 – Paul MARZELLA
3 – Matt LANTRY
4 – Mark HENDY
5 – Joel ASHER
6 – Guy WILLIAMS
7 – Chris LAW
8 – Brad McLEVY
9 – Scott JONES
10 – Dale BROCKBANK
11 – Simon GREAVES
12 – Thomas MACGOUGAN
13 – Brett DELANEY
14 – Mat KEATING
15 – Jesse SHELLEY
16 – Brendan HUNT
17 – Ben TAIA
18 – Nathan RUSSELL

Wade McKinnon - 6 (82)
Routinely beat tackles and his kick return and support play was excellent. However, he should have cleaned up the kick that led to the first try, attempting to kick the ball clear rather than diving and pushing it out with his hands. A couple of errors also let his game down.

Luke Burt - 6 (104)
He's been tried at fullback and centre, but Luke Burt's real home is on the wing. Showed great pace to run down a Lee Hopkins kick in the opening minutes but unfortunately just had his boot on the sideline.

Ben Smith - 5 (11)
The big centre made an awful attempted tackle on Pat Richards who fended him off before scooting downfield. Also made an error, turning the ball over when the Eels were on the attack.

Luke O'Dwyer - 6 (33)
Defence was exceptional and did some helpful work out of dummy half. Got pulled into touch but didn't have a lot of room to work with on that occasion.

Matt Peterson - 7 (90)
Continued his good form, despite not having a lot of opportunities. Continually got into dummy half to help Parramatta work their way out of trouble.

Daniel Wagon - 6 (102)
Solid in defence but had no impact in attack.

Chris Thorman - 5 (29)
Kicking game was awful. Made one nice break, but didn't kick on as the Eels would have hoped after last week's promising performance. Woeful attempt at tackle let Brett Hodgson make a big break downfield.

Corey Pearson - 7 (51)
Beautiful little ball put Shane Muspratt into a gap, creating one of the Eels' few breaks all night. Took the ball up all night and was tough in defence.

Shane Muspratt - 5 (25)
Was occassionally very good, occasionally very bed.

Michael Vella - 6 (109)
He made a number of good, powerful runs but again seemed to go missing for period. Only eight hit-ups.

Nathan Hindmarsh - 8 (122)
Was everywhere for Parramatta. Most tackles, most hit-ups, try-saving tackles, feeding from off-loads, dummy half runs, his game had it all. Problem is every time he did get the ball, the Tigers pounced on him in numbers. Needs support.

Craig Stapleton - 7 (124)
Another fine hame, highlighted by some, tough-bullocking runs.

Lee Hopkins - 7 (7)
Tried hard to spark the Eels and his grubber through for Luke Burt almost came up trumps.

Dean Widders - 7 (114)
Only real blight to his game was the dropped ball that led to the Tigers second try. Otherwise, did plenty of work and looked dangerous out wide.

Jack Afamasaga - 4 (57)
Couple of key errors and had limited impact in attack

Adam Peek - 5 (56)
Didn't make any mistakes.

Justin Tsoulos - 6 (76)
Slipped some great offloads which started second phase play for the Eels. However, a couple of errors let him down.

Media reports following the Eels embarassing defeat to the Tigers focused on the reality that the Eels are now a real chance of picking up the wooden spoon.

The Tigers beat the Eels in a match that was universally described as "scrappy".

Once again, it was the class of an opposition half that was the difference between the Eels winning and losing. This time it was Queensland State of Origin half back Scott Prince.

"Scott Prince was the destroyer for the Tigers, setting up three tries and continually troubling the defence. The Eels had first points from a penalty but from there it was all bad, the kick-off from Brett Hodgson firing back off the posts and the Tigers scoring four rucks later after Prince put through a kick for Shane Elford. "

"Another Prince kick produced a try for former Warrior Robbie Mears and it was his break that put Daniel Fitzhenry away for their third touchdown," said the New Zealand Herald match report.

It has seemed like every match the Eels have lost over the past two months has been the result of being cut to shred by individual brilliance from a half of five-eighth. Be that Darren Lockyer, Amos Roberts, Stacey Jones, Matt Orford or Scott Prince. Unfortunately, no one has stepped up for the Eels to do likewise.

The Sun Herald's match report quoted Parra players Nathan Hindmarsh and Corey Pearson as saying the Eels would do everything in their power to avoid the wooden spoon.

Nathan Hindmarsh said "we're very aware of where we are on the table."

"It would be embarrassing for the club and for Smithy [coach Brian Smith] if we did get the wooden spoon, but I think we're too good to let that happen. We're not going to just curl up and let it happen.

"We'll do everything we can to avoid it. The way we're going is not a reflection of the way Smithy coaches. It's just been one of those years, but there's still plenty of motivation to do well over the last few rounds."

Pearson added: "There's no way in the world we'll get the wooden spoon. We had to win tonight to keep any hope of making the finals alive and we've got the bye next week. After that we'll play for pride right until the end of the season."

In today's Sydney Morning Herald, the Eels were listed as one of the week's big losers in sport. "That old wooden spoon may end up being handed to Parramatta if they keep up their losing ways".

ABC's online report stated the obvious, saying the loss "all but erasing the Eels' hopes of finals action this season".