Wednesday, September 15, 2004
Finals teams unchanges
Both Parramatta lower grade teams are for the most part unchanged as they strive to make it to the final four.
This week Michael Witt has been named in the Premier League starting side as number seven with Tim Smith to pivot. Last week, Witt was not named in the starting side but came into the 13 at the expense of Feleti Mateo. Mateo came off the bench, only to be sent off. Mateo has been named on the bench but will likely miss the game through suspension.
The Jersey Flegg side who scored a terrific win over the second ranked Bulldogs last week, not surprisingly, remain unchanged.
PREMIER LEAGUE
1 - Joel REDDY
2 – Matt GRUSZKA
3 – Brett DELANEY
4 – Luke O’DWYER
5 – John WILLIAMS
6 – Tim SMITH
7 – Michael WITT
8 – Fuifui MOIMOI
9 – James WEBSTER ©
10 – Aaron CANNINGS
11 – Chris MUCKERT
12 – Chris ARMIT
13 – Shane MUSPRATT
14 – Steve MOWBRAY
15 – Fred PETERSEN
16 – Feleti MATEO
17 – Jim CURTIS
18 – Jeremiah PAI
JERSEY FLEGG
1 – Brett ANDERSON
2 – Paul MARZELLA
3 – Michael BASAN
4 – Kris INU
5 – Joel ASHER
6 – Blake GREEN
7 – Dane QUEENAN
8 – Zeb TAIA
9 – Scott JONES
10 – Josh CORDOBA
11 – Brendan OAKE ©
12 – Nathan ARMIT
13 – Guy WILLIAMS
14 – Thomas MacGOUGAN
15 – Mark HENDY
16 – Brad McLEVEY
17 – Ben TAIA
18 – Matt KEATING
19 – Simon GREAVES
This week Michael Witt has been named in the Premier League starting side as number seven with Tim Smith to pivot. Last week, Witt was not named in the starting side but came into the 13 at the expense of Feleti Mateo. Mateo came off the bench, only to be sent off. Mateo has been named on the bench but will likely miss the game through suspension.
The Jersey Flegg side who scored a terrific win over the second ranked Bulldogs last week, not surprisingly, remain unchanged.
PREMIER LEAGUE
1 - Joel REDDY
2 – Matt GRUSZKA
3 – Brett DELANEY
4 – Luke O’DWYER
5 – John WILLIAMS
6 – Tim SMITH
7 – Michael WITT
8 – Fuifui MOIMOI
9 – James WEBSTER ©
10 – Aaron CANNINGS
11 – Chris MUCKERT
12 – Chris ARMIT
13 – Shane MUSPRATT
14 – Steve MOWBRAY
15 – Fred PETERSEN
16 – Feleti MATEO
17 – Jim CURTIS
18 – Jeremiah PAI
JERSEY FLEGG
1 – Brett ANDERSON
2 – Paul MARZELLA
3 – Michael BASAN
4 – Kris INU
5 – Joel ASHER
6 – Blake GREEN
7 – Dane QUEENAN
8 – Zeb TAIA
9 – Scott JONES
10 – Josh CORDOBA
11 – Brendan OAKE ©
12 – Nathan ARMIT
13 – Guy WILLIAMS
14 – Thomas MacGOUGAN
15 – Mark HENDY
16 – Brad McLEVEY
17 – Ben TAIA
18 – Matt KEATING
19 – Simon GREAVES
Monday, September 13, 2004
Lower grades survive
Parramatta's Premier League and Lower Grade sides have both made it through to the next round of the finals despite reserve grade's loss to Manly.
The Eels Premier League team, which finished the season in sixth, faced up against the third-placed Manly squad. The Sea Eagles got off to an early lead and the game looked beyond them when Feleti Mateo, who started from the bench due to the inclusion of Michael Witt, was sent from the field for a high tackle.
However, the Eels fought back bravely, until the effort told and Manly ran away with the game late to win 40 to 20.
Fortunately for the Eels both the Roosters and Dragons came away with wins, leaving Parra to survive another week.
However, they will now play next Saturday against the very strong Raiders outfit, who finished the season in fourth and trounced the Penrith/St Mary Cougars 40 to 16.
Meanwhile, Parramatta's Jersey Flegg team won their way through to the next round of finals with a win over the second-placed Bulldogs outfit.
The young Eels won 30 to 20 and will now face the Balmain Tigers to fight for a place in the last four. The Tigers finished the season in fourth (the Eels placed seventh) and were pipped by the Cronulla Sharks 26 to 24.
The Eels Premier League team, which finished the season in sixth, faced up against the third-placed Manly squad. The Sea Eagles got off to an early lead and the game looked beyond them when Feleti Mateo, who started from the bench due to the inclusion of Michael Witt, was sent from the field for a high tackle.
However, the Eels fought back bravely, until the effort told and Manly ran away with the game late to win 40 to 20.
Fortunately for the Eels both the Roosters and Dragons came away with wins, leaving Parra to survive another week.
However, they will now play next Saturday against the very strong Raiders outfit, who finished the season in fourth and trounced the Penrith/St Mary Cougars 40 to 16.
Meanwhile, Parramatta's Jersey Flegg team won their way through to the next round of finals with a win over the second-placed Bulldogs outfit.
The young Eels won 30 to 20 and will now face the Balmain Tigers to fight for a place in the last four. The Tigers finished the season in fourth (the Eels placed seventh) and were pipped by the Cronulla Sharks 26 to 24.
Sunday, September 12, 2004
1Eyed Eel Awards for 2004
Every single vote for Player of the Year by 1Eyed Eels readers has gone to Nathan Hindmarsh, with Wade McKinnon almost as dominant in taking out the Back of the Year.
Hindmarsh was the 1Eyed Eel Player of the Year for the most points collected during our player ratings throughout the year. He finished in front of Craig Stapleton and Dean Widders.
Hindmarsh then totally dominated voting from 1Eyed Eel readers, collecting every single vote for Player of the Year and Forward of the Year.
Wade McKinnon was overwhelming choice for Back of the Year and Buy of the Year.
The most improved went to Matt Peterson whose game improved out of sight over the course of the year. McKinnon was runner-up in that category.
Despite only playing one first grade game, most Eels supporters believe that Feleti Mateo was the most exciting prospect to emerge, in front of the likes of Rookie of the Year Jack Afamasaga.
Most Eels supporters believe that the signing of PJ Marsh will be most key to Parramatta in 2005. Mark Riddell was voted the second most important signing.
1Eyed Eel Awards for 2004
1Eyed Eel Player of the Year: Nathan Hindmarsh
Reader's Choice Player of the Year: Nathan Hindmarsh
Forward of the Year: Nathan Hindmarsh
Back of the Year: Wade McKinnon
2004 Buy of the Year: Wade McKinnon
Most Improved Player: Matt Peterson
Most Exciting Prospect: Feleti Mateo
Most Valuable Buy for 2005: PJ Marsh
Wednesday, September 08, 2004
Eels lower grades set for finals charge
Both lower grades suffered losses against the crack Rooster's outfits last week to leave them both in sixth position coming into the finals.
Premier League will play the third-placed Manly at Brookvale and looks to have a team that, on paper, is talented enough to knock over any of their rivals.
Every single member of the forward pack have tasted NRL this year as have backs Luke O'Dwyer and Feleti Mateo.
The halves, Mateo and Tim Smith both have huge wraps on them and this finals series represents the opportunity for both to show that they're too good for the second division and will be ready for an NRL call up next year.
Parramatta's Jersey Flegg team has been hurt this year with a lot of its best players working their way up to Premier League or better but there is still a lot of young talent in the team, including Josh Cordoba, who played much of the season in Premier League, Brett Anderson who played a couple of NRL matches and Australian schoolboy half Blake Green.
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. Fui Fui Moi Moi
9. James Webster (c)
10. Aaron Cannings
11. Chris Muckert
12. Chris Armit
13. Shane Muspratt
14. Jeremiah Pai
15. Jim Curtis
16. Steve Mowbray
17. Fred Petersen
Jersey Flegg
1. Brett Anderson
2. Paul Marzella
3. Thomas MacGougan
4. Kris Inu
5. Joel Asher
6. Blake Green
7. Dane Queenan
8. Zeb Taia
9. Scott Jones
10. Josh Cordoba
11. Brendan Oake
12. Nathan Armit
13. Guy Williams
14. Michael Basan
15. Mark Hendy
16. Brad McLevey
17. Ben Taia
18. Matt Keating
19. Simon Greaves (two to be omitted)
Premier League will play the third-placed Manly at Brookvale and looks to have a team that, on paper, is talented enough to knock over any of their rivals.
Every single member of the forward pack have tasted NRL this year as have backs Luke O'Dwyer and Feleti Mateo.
The halves, Mateo and Tim Smith both have huge wraps on them and this finals series represents the opportunity for both to show that they're too good for the second division and will be ready for an NRL call up next year.
Parramatta's Jersey Flegg team has been hurt this year with a lot of its best players working their way up to Premier League or better but there is still a lot of young talent in the team, including Josh Cordoba, who played much of the season in Premier League, Brett Anderson who played a couple of NRL matches and Australian schoolboy half Blake Green.
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. Fui Fui Moi Moi
9. James Webster (c)
10. Aaron Cannings
11. Chris Muckert
12. Chris Armit
13. Shane Muspratt
14. Jeremiah Pai
15. Jim Curtis
16. Steve Mowbray
17. Fred Petersen
Jersey Flegg
1. Brett Anderson
2. Paul Marzella
3. Thomas MacGougan
4. Kris Inu
5. Joel Asher
6. Blake Green
7. Dane Queenan
8. Zeb Taia
9. Scott Jones
10. Josh Cordoba
11. Brendan Oake
12. Nathan Armit
13. Guy Williams
14. Michael Basan
15. Mark Hendy
16. Brad McLevey
17. Ben Taia
18. Matt Keating
19. Simon Greaves (two to be omitted)
Tuesday, September 07, 2004
Player Ratings: Season 2004
Best average ratings – Nathan Cayless (8); Nathan Hindmarsh (7.7); Wake McKinnon (7.3); Dean Widders (6.7); Adam Dykes (6.5)
Nathan Hindmarsh – 154 (7.7)
Despite missing three games through State of Origin commitments, Hindmarsh was consistently brilliant for Parramatta. He has matured into a leader for the Eels, a standout representative player and a role model for the club. His workrate is phenomenal and he can be devastating in attack. Having Glenn Morrison alongside him next year should take a lot of pressure off him defensively and allow him to be more dynamic in attack. Thank you, Hindy, you’re a true Blue and Gold legend.
Craig Stapleton – 146 (6.3)
Mr Consistency. Played every game bar the last one when he was suspended. Unlike some of the forwards, he turned up to play every week, working hard each and every game and adding some much needed aggression to the Parramatta pack. He may not have the natural talent of some of the other Parramatta forwards but they could take a leaf out of his book in terms of commitment and effort.
Dean Widders – 141 (6.7)
Came of age this year as one of the most dynamic interchange players in the game. In a Parramatta outfit that was often bereft of attacking ideas, Widders had the ability to break open the game with a surprising turn of pace and a big step. Always worked hard in defence and has earned a permanent place on the Parramatta bench.
Michael Vella – 132 (6.3)
His best season since 2001 thanks mainly to a season uninterrupted by injury but it could have been so much better. Some weeks Vella was brilliant, others weeks he would go missing. Will need to be far more consistent if he is to hold down his front row position next year.
Daniel Wagon – 127 (5.8)
Without doubt the standout aspect of Wagon’s game this year has been his big defence. His best games have been when the match has gotten aggressive as it lifts him to put on the big hits he’s capable of. However, for too many games, Wagon was pedestrian. He added almost nothing in attack and although his workrate was high, he missed too many key tackles.
Luke Burt – 128 (5.8)
Started the season on-fire with brilliant broken play running from fullback before being dropped after a form slump. Was then moved into the centres after David Vaeliki broke down. Burty got more and more comfortable there as the season progressed. Proved he is a dynamic runner of the football but still needs to do a lot of work on his defence.
Matt Peterson – 118 (6.2)
His early season form was typical of seasons past, where he was brilliant at one moment and diabolical the next. However, as the season went on, he managed to cut the errors out of his game and what was left was a committed, powerful winger, strong in the air and close to the line. By the end of the season he had well and truly cemented his wing position.
Wade McKinnon – 117 (7.3)
In a losing team, McKinnon had a wow of a season. After spending the first half dozen games in Premier League, he impressed with his intensity and commitment the moment he broke into first great. Great ability to bump off a tackle and is just about the best defensive fullback in the competition.
John Morris – 102 (5.6)
Has been Mr Dependable is past seasons but this year he was up and down. In some games, like the Eels thrashing of Manly, he looked as though he would be the heir apparent to Danny Buderus however too often he’d made careless mistakes, give away silly penalties or just simply fail to provide adequate impact or service from dummy half. Overall, a disappointing year.
Junior Langi – 99 (6.2)
Was always solid without being remarkable although his flick pass was the source of a number of tries for the Eels. Was a good back-up and earned his money.
Justin Tsoulos – 99 (6.2)
Showed so much in many of his early games but his form dropped off dramatically after he suffered an injury. He tends to struggle when the rest of the forwards are struggling to break the advantage line but his offload and size really comes to the fore when the opposition is on the backfoot. Unfortunately for Tsoulos, this year the Eels pack seldom got on top.
Lee Hopkins – 96 (6)
Sustained an early season injury and performed fairly in the second row when he broke back into the top team. However, he really shone when he was allowed to play hooker where he was a constant threat to the opposition. A passionate, committed player, he is held in the utmost regard by every Eel fan.
Adam Dykes – 85 (6.5)
The man Parramatta needed to keep on the park more than any other player. When Dykes was on song, Parramatta was on song and 1Eyed Eel has no doubt the Eels would have made the finals if Dykes had of stayed on the park. He was brilliant early in the season before he became targeted by opposition defences. Was showing signs of getting back to his best before injury rubbed out the entire back end of his season. A player of great natural ability who Parramatta could just never keep on the field.
Adam Peek – 81 (5.8)
Spent many weeks on the sideline through suspension but when he returned he was consistently one of the Eels better props (admittedly that was not saying a lot on some occasions). Still has problems with his hands on occasions, but is a dependable back-up player.
Corey Pearson – 77 (6.4)
Always looked like he was running on the spot but was more effective than people gave him credit for. Offloading was good and was tough in defence but didn’t really have the power game to help the Eels get on top of the better forward packs. Missed much of the front half of the season with injury.
Nathan Cayless – 72 (8)
His move to the second row this year was one of the few experiments that worked for Brian Smith. It enabled him to concentrate on offloading the ball and creating attacking opportunities for the Eels rather than just barging up the ball.
Ashley Graham – 68 (5.2)
After returning from a horrific injury, Graham just hasn’t seemed to regather his confidence or pace. Spent most of the season on the wing, a position that just doesn’t appear to suit his game. A proper off-season should do wonders for his game next year.
Eric Grothe – 61 (6.1)
Started the season brilliantly but missed most of the year through injury. His game breaking ability was sorely missed and he gave Parramatta another dimension when he was on the park.
Jack Afamasaga – 57 (5.7)
Well deserved rookie of the year. Made an immediate impact with his powerful running but probably ran out of steam in his debut season at NRL level.
Michael Witt – 56 (6)
Showed glimpses of brilliance, but hasn’t been able to take control of the team like Parramatta has so desperately needed. His bombs and long-kicking games are good, his goal kicking is excellent but he needs to be much more effective with his last tackle options. Has not yet proved he is the Eels long-term half back option, but has indicated he has the potential to fill the role.
Chris Thorman – 52 (5.2)
An exciting runner of the ball, however his defensive deficiencies let him down. Doesn’t have the organizational game to play half but doesn’t have the defensive game to play five-eighth. He will no doubt return to England a better player but is not yet up to NRL standard.
James Webster – 48 (5.3)
Was probably unlucky not to be used more often. Never played a bad game, but unfortunately he’s just too small not to pose a potential weakness every time he lines up in the NRL.
Chris Armit – 47 (5.2)
Never got a lot of game time – was solid but never was really able to make his mark on any game.
Luke O’Dwyer – 38 (6.3)
Showed enough to prove that, at the very least, he’s going to be a dependable backup to the NRL squad next year. Jury is still out as to whether he is a lock or centre.
Shane Muspratt – 25 (4.2)
Was often a star in Premier League but was never able to bring that form to the NRL.
Fuifui Moimoi – 24 (6)
Deserved more time in NRL. Showed he is one of the few Eels forwards who has the ability to change the tide of a game against Manly early in the season but was never given the chance to cement his spot in the NRL squad. If he can work on his fitness in the off-season he could be the power forward that Parramatta desperately needs.
Others: Aaron Cannings – Dropped too much ball in first few games then missed entire season; Feleti Mateo – Showed enough to suggest he is perhaps the best prospect in the club; Chris Muckert – Another season riddled with injury and he never fulfilled expectations; Ben Smith - Big and strong and appears to be a centre of great promise but needs to show he can break a tackle at NRL level; Ronald Price – Had just about cemented a regular place in first grade when injury ended his season; David Vaeliki – Slow start to the season ended prematurely by injury; Brett Anderson – Promising but too raw for NRL; Jamie Lyon – Heartless effort to walk out on his teammates after one game
Nathan Hindmarsh – 154 (7.7)
Despite missing three games through State of Origin commitments, Hindmarsh was consistently brilliant for Parramatta. He has matured into a leader for the Eels, a standout representative player and a role model for the club. His workrate is phenomenal and he can be devastating in attack. Having Glenn Morrison alongside him next year should take a lot of pressure off him defensively and allow him to be more dynamic in attack. Thank you, Hindy, you’re a true Blue and Gold legend.
Craig Stapleton – 146 (6.3)
Mr Consistency. Played every game bar the last one when he was suspended. Unlike some of the forwards, he turned up to play every week, working hard each and every game and adding some much needed aggression to the Parramatta pack. He may not have the natural talent of some of the other Parramatta forwards but they could take a leaf out of his book in terms of commitment and effort.
Dean Widders – 141 (6.7)
Came of age this year as one of the most dynamic interchange players in the game. In a Parramatta outfit that was often bereft of attacking ideas, Widders had the ability to break open the game with a surprising turn of pace and a big step. Always worked hard in defence and has earned a permanent place on the Parramatta bench.
Michael Vella – 132 (6.3)
His best season since 2001 thanks mainly to a season uninterrupted by injury but it could have been so much better. Some weeks Vella was brilliant, others weeks he would go missing. Will need to be far more consistent if he is to hold down his front row position next year.
Daniel Wagon – 127 (5.8)
Without doubt the standout aspect of Wagon’s game this year has been his big defence. His best games have been when the match has gotten aggressive as it lifts him to put on the big hits he’s capable of. However, for too many games, Wagon was pedestrian. He added almost nothing in attack and although his workrate was high, he missed too many key tackles.
Luke Burt – 128 (5.8)
Started the season on-fire with brilliant broken play running from fullback before being dropped after a form slump. Was then moved into the centres after David Vaeliki broke down. Burty got more and more comfortable there as the season progressed. Proved he is a dynamic runner of the football but still needs to do a lot of work on his defence.
Matt Peterson – 118 (6.2)
His early season form was typical of seasons past, where he was brilliant at one moment and diabolical the next. However, as the season went on, he managed to cut the errors out of his game and what was left was a committed, powerful winger, strong in the air and close to the line. By the end of the season he had well and truly cemented his wing position.
Wade McKinnon – 117 (7.3)
In a losing team, McKinnon had a wow of a season. After spending the first half dozen games in Premier League, he impressed with his intensity and commitment the moment he broke into first great. Great ability to bump off a tackle and is just about the best defensive fullback in the competition.
John Morris – 102 (5.6)
Has been Mr Dependable is past seasons but this year he was up and down. In some games, like the Eels thrashing of Manly, he looked as though he would be the heir apparent to Danny Buderus however too often he’d made careless mistakes, give away silly penalties or just simply fail to provide adequate impact or service from dummy half. Overall, a disappointing year.
Junior Langi – 99 (6.2)
Was always solid without being remarkable although his flick pass was the source of a number of tries for the Eels. Was a good back-up and earned his money.
Justin Tsoulos – 99 (6.2)
Showed so much in many of his early games but his form dropped off dramatically after he suffered an injury. He tends to struggle when the rest of the forwards are struggling to break the advantage line but his offload and size really comes to the fore when the opposition is on the backfoot. Unfortunately for Tsoulos, this year the Eels pack seldom got on top.
Lee Hopkins – 96 (6)
Sustained an early season injury and performed fairly in the second row when he broke back into the top team. However, he really shone when he was allowed to play hooker where he was a constant threat to the opposition. A passionate, committed player, he is held in the utmost regard by every Eel fan.
Adam Dykes – 85 (6.5)
The man Parramatta needed to keep on the park more than any other player. When Dykes was on song, Parramatta was on song and 1Eyed Eel has no doubt the Eels would have made the finals if Dykes had of stayed on the park. He was brilliant early in the season before he became targeted by opposition defences. Was showing signs of getting back to his best before injury rubbed out the entire back end of his season. A player of great natural ability who Parramatta could just never keep on the field.
Adam Peek – 81 (5.8)
Spent many weeks on the sideline through suspension but when he returned he was consistently one of the Eels better props (admittedly that was not saying a lot on some occasions). Still has problems with his hands on occasions, but is a dependable back-up player.
Corey Pearson – 77 (6.4)
Always looked like he was running on the spot but was more effective than people gave him credit for. Offloading was good and was tough in defence but didn’t really have the power game to help the Eels get on top of the better forward packs. Missed much of the front half of the season with injury.
Nathan Cayless – 72 (8)
His move to the second row this year was one of the few experiments that worked for Brian Smith. It enabled him to concentrate on offloading the ball and creating attacking opportunities for the Eels rather than just barging up the ball.
Ashley Graham – 68 (5.2)
After returning from a horrific injury, Graham just hasn’t seemed to regather his confidence or pace. Spent most of the season on the wing, a position that just doesn’t appear to suit his game. A proper off-season should do wonders for his game next year.
Eric Grothe – 61 (6.1)
Started the season brilliantly but missed most of the year through injury. His game breaking ability was sorely missed and he gave Parramatta another dimension when he was on the park.
Jack Afamasaga – 57 (5.7)
Well deserved rookie of the year. Made an immediate impact with his powerful running but probably ran out of steam in his debut season at NRL level.
Michael Witt – 56 (6)
Showed glimpses of brilliance, but hasn’t been able to take control of the team like Parramatta has so desperately needed. His bombs and long-kicking games are good, his goal kicking is excellent but he needs to be much more effective with his last tackle options. Has not yet proved he is the Eels long-term half back option, but has indicated he has the potential to fill the role.
Chris Thorman – 52 (5.2)
An exciting runner of the ball, however his defensive deficiencies let him down. Doesn’t have the organizational game to play half but doesn’t have the defensive game to play five-eighth. He will no doubt return to England a better player but is not yet up to NRL standard.
James Webster – 48 (5.3)
Was probably unlucky not to be used more often. Never played a bad game, but unfortunately he’s just too small not to pose a potential weakness every time he lines up in the NRL.
Chris Armit – 47 (5.2)
Never got a lot of game time – was solid but never was really able to make his mark on any game.
Luke O’Dwyer – 38 (6.3)
Showed enough to prove that, at the very least, he’s going to be a dependable backup to the NRL squad next year. Jury is still out as to whether he is a lock or centre.
Shane Muspratt – 25 (4.2)
Was often a star in Premier League but was never able to bring that form to the NRL.
Fuifui Moimoi – 24 (6)
Deserved more time in NRL. Showed he is one of the few Eels forwards who has the ability to change the tide of a game against Manly early in the season but was never given the chance to cement his spot in the NRL squad. If he can work on his fitness in the off-season he could be the power forward that Parramatta desperately needs.
Others: Aaron Cannings – Dropped too much ball in first few games then missed entire season; Feleti Mateo – Showed enough to suggest he is perhaps the best prospect in the club; Chris Muckert – Another season riddled with injury and he never fulfilled expectations; Ben Smith - Big and strong and appears to be a centre of great promise but needs to show he can break a tackle at NRL level; Ronald Price – Had just about cemented a regular place in first grade when injury ended his season; David Vaeliki – Slow start to the season ended prematurely by injury; Brett Anderson – Promising but too raw for NRL; Jamie Lyon – Heartless effort to walk out on his teammates after one game
Hindmarsh wins second rower of the year
Nathan Hindmarsh has won the Dally M second rower of the year.
Former Eel Willie Tonga took out centre of the year while the Dally M went to Newcastle captain Danny Buderus.
Meanwhile, Hindmarsh has been added to the Kangaroos train-on squad for the Tri-Nations tournament.
Former Eel Willie Tonga took out centre of the year while the Dally M went to Newcastle captain Danny Buderus.
Meanwhile, Hindmarsh has been added to the Kangaroos train-on squad for the Tri-Nations tournament.
Hindmarsh wins second rower of the year
Nathan Hindmarsh has won the Dally M second rower of the year.
Former Eel Willie Tonga took out centre of the year while the Dally M went to Newcastle captain Danny Buderus.
Former Eel Willie Tonga took out centre of the year while the Dally M went to Newcastle captain Danny Buderus.
Monday, September 06, 2004
Player Ratings: Eels vs Roosters
Wade McKinnon - 6
Well contained by the Roosters
Ashley Graham - 6
Played a hand in both Eels tries and made a try-saving one-on-one strip on Ryan Cross.
Luke O'Dwyer - 5
Scored a try but didn't have a lot of opportunities.
Luke Burt - 5
Had little impact.
Matthew Peterson - 3
Ridiculous pass to McKinnon was the start of the end for Parramatta. Also got pushed into touch on a couple of occasions. Dissapointing way to end what has been a great back half of the year.
Chris Thorman - 3
A defensive liability. Missed four tackles and had little impact in attack.
Michael Witt - 5
Another good bomb produced a try and short kick ahead almost resulted in another. Long kicking game was fair but was outplayed by Finch.
Corey Pearson - 5
Caused the Roosters forwards no concern. Did well to lob the ball to O'Dwyer for first try.
Lee Hopkins - 5
Didn't get much game time after suffering concussion but looked the Eel most likely to spark something when he was on the field.
Michael Vella - 4
Dropped a ball and was unable to get any go forward happening.
Nathan Hindmarsh - 8
God knows what the score would have been without Hindmarsh.
Nathan Cayless - 8
Did plenty of work in attack and made some unbelievable offloads.
Daniel Wagon - 5
Fell of Michael Crocker to concede a try.
James Webster - 4
Didn't provide much spark when he came on.
Dean Widders - 4
Had no impact
Adam Peek - 4
Spilled the ball on his second touch and was, like all of the Eels props, ineffective.
Justin Tsoulos - 4
Made a good hit or two but wasn't able to turn the game around at all
Totals and season rating tomorrow.
Well contained by the Roosters
Ashley Graham - 6
Played a hand in both Eels tries and made a try-saving one-on-one strip on Ryan Cross.
Luke O'Dwyer - 5
Scored a try but didn't have a lot of opportunities.
Luke Burt - 5
Had little impact.
Matthew Peterson - 3
Ridiculous pass to McKinnon was the start of the end for Parramatta. Also got pushed into touch on a couple of occasions. Dissapointing way to end what has been a great back half of the year.
Chris Thorman - 3
A defensive liability. Missed four tackles and had little impact in attack.
Michael Witt - 5
Another good bomb produced a try and short kick ahead almost resulted in another. Long kicking game was fair but was outplayed by Finch.
Corey Pearson - 5
Caused the Roosters forwards no concern. Did well to lob the ball to O'Dwyer for first try.
Lee Hopkins - 5
Didn't get much game time after suffering concussion but looked the Eel most likely to spark something when he was on the field.
Michael Vella - 4
Dropped a ball and was unable to get any go forward happening.
Nathan Hindmarsh - 8
God knows what the score would have been without Hindmarsh.
Nathan Cayless - 8
Did plenty of work in attack and made some unbelievable offloads.
Daniel Wagon - 5
Fell of Michael Crocker to concede a try.
James Webster - 4
Didn't provide much spark when he came on.
Dean Widders - 4
Had no impact
Adam Peek - 4
Spilled the ball on his second touch and was, like all of the Eels props, ineffective.
Justin Tsoulos - 4
Made a good hit or two but wasn't able to turn the game around at all
Totals and season rating tomorrow.
Sunday, September 05, 2004
Eels outclassed
The Parramatta Eels were shown just how much difference there is between the Minor Premiers and a competition also-ran – 38 points, to be exact.
The Eels were thrashed today 48 to 10 by a Roosters outfit that was too strong, too committed, too willing, too fast and too skillful for their opponents.
Although, Parra fans are already eagerly looking towards next year, the final game of the year showed just how much improvement Parramatta will need to find to become Premiership contenders again.
The game started ominously with the Roosters scoring in the opening minutes but the Eels got back into the contest when a Michael Witt bomb again produced a try to the Eels with Luke O’Dwyer scoring.
However, it was another heart-breaking mistake that turned the game. Having competed well for 25 minutes Matt Petersen picked up a grubber kick in-goal and fired off a sharp-pass to Wade McKinnon just as the fullback slipped. He had no chance of grasping the ball and it fell to the ground for Chris Walker to score.
Not long after, Michael Crocker brushed aside an attempted Daniel Wagon tackle, to score and from there on, it was a procession of tries to the Roosters. The Eels could not keep up with the pace set by the Sydney City and they were continuously struggling to get back the ten and gave away a litany of penalties for that offence. With the Roosters enjoying a mountain of possession and field position, the Eels defence was unable to hold the quick, strong and skillful Roosters outfit who totally dominated the game.
The Eels only got their second try in the dying minutes when some good work by Ashley Graham and some nice offloading led to a Petersen try outwide.
The result was perhaps fitting. A disappointing end to a disappointing season. Goodbye NRL 2004 and good riddance.
The Eels were thrashed today 48 to 10 by a Roosters outfit that was too strong, too committed, too willing, too fast and too skillful for their opponents.
Although, Parra fans are already eagerly looking towards next year, the final game of the year showed just how much improvement Parramatta will need to find to become Premiership contenders again.
The game started ominously with the Roosters scoring in the opening minutes but the Eels got back into the contest when a Michael Witt bomb again produced a try to the Eels with Luke O’Dwyer scoring.
However, it was another heart-breaking mistake that turned the game. Having competed well for 25 minutes Matt Petersen picked up a grubber kick in-goal and fired off a sharp-pass to Wade McKinnon just as the fullback slipped. He had no chance of grasping the ball and it fell to the ground for Chris Walker to score.
Not long after, Michael Crocker brushed aside an attempted Daniel Wagon tackle, to score and from there on, it was a procession of tries to the Roosters. The Eels could not keep up with the pace set by the Sydney City and they were continuously struggling to get back the ten and gave away a litany of penalties for that offence. With the Roosters enjoying a mountain of possession and field position, the Eels defence was unable to hold the quick, strong and skillful Roosters outfit who totally dominated the game.
The Eels only got their second try in the dying minutes when some good work by Ashley Graham and some nice offloading led to a Petersen try outwide.
The result was perhaps fitting. A disappointing end to a disappointing season. Goodbye NRL 2004 and good riddance.
Thursday, September 02, 2004
Cast your vote in 1Eyed Awards
Following the end of the Eels 2004 campaign, 1Eyed Eel will name our Player of the Year based on points aggregated during our Player Ratings over the course of the season.
However, we'd also like to give out some additional plaudits so we'd like you to let us know who you think is worthy in the following category:
Click here to cast your vote in any of these categories of follow the comments link below. Player with the most votes will be awarded the honour.
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
PJ return confirmed
Subject to passing a final medical test, PJ Marsh will be returning to Parramatta next year after signing a two year deal with the Eels.
The signing has been perhaps the worst kept secret in League for some time now and the timing was foreshadowed by a 1Eyed Eel reader today in a user comment. The reader also said Nathan Cayless would re-sign on Thursday, news confirmed by AAP later in the day.
Marsh has not played for more than a year after suffering a serious neck injury, ironically against the Eels in Round 14 last year. He previously played for the Eels and after rising through its lower grades was a key member of the highly successful 2001 squad.
Coach Brian Smith was quoted in a media release as saying: "“PJ left us at the end of the 2001 season as a player with great potential, and he has certainly fulfilled that. He will be a tremendous asset to our Club in 2005 and can play halfback, five eighth or hooker."
Also quoted in the release was CEO Denis Fitzgerald who said: “This is great news for the Club. PJ has established himself as one of the best halfbacks in the game, and adds to the tremendous depth in our playing roster for 2005. PJ will play a vital role in the Parramatta resurgence".
Eels football manager Tony Zappia told AAP that the signing was subject to a final medical clearance.
"All our offers are subject to medical clearances. He's got one more clearance to get through but so far everything has been positive and he's three quarters of the way through it. Probably next week (he'll receive a clearance)."
When asked by AAP if the Eels were concerned about the injury, Zappia said: "I'm not a medical person but everything looks okay, he's got one more set of tests but everything seems to be positive."
Meanwhile, captain Nathan Cayless said in a separate AAP report that the Parramatta recruitment drive augured well for next year.
"It is one of the strongest on paper, but we've got to get out there and play as a team, do a lot of work in the off-season, bring everyone together. We want to get back into the top eight next year and give it a good shake."
Cayless confirmed he would sign for a further two-years on Thursday and also said he wanted to be an Eel for life. "That would be a great honour, something that I aspire to. But it doesn't always turn out the way you want it. If I am playing good enough footy the club will want to keep me."
The return of Marsh, as well as reports that the Eels have signed the Perenara brothers, have led to suggestions that former Warriors coach Daniel Anderson may be involved with the Eels in 2005. It has been speculated in some circles that Brian Smith may move into a role as coaching director with Anderson being made NRL coach. It was announced in the last week that Peter Sharp was already returning to Parramatta as assistant coach.
The signing has been perhaps the worst kept secret in League for some time now and the timing was foreshadowed by a 1Eyed Eel reader today in a user comment. The reader also said Nathan Cayless would re-sign on Thursday, news confirmed by AAP later in the day.
Marsh has not played for more than a year after suffering a serious neck injury, ironically against the Eels in Round 14 last year. He previously played for the Eels and after rising through its lower grades was a key member of the highly successful 2001 squad.
Coach Brian Smith was quoted in a media release as saying: "“PJ left us at the end of the 2001 season as a player with great potential, and he has certainly fulfilled that. He will be a tremendous asset to our Club in 2005 and can play halfback, five eighth or hooker."
Also quoted in the release was CEO Denis Fitzgerald who said: “This is great news for the Club. PJ has established himself as one of the best halfbacks in the game, and adds to the tremendous depth in our playing roster for 2005. PJ will play a vital role in the Parramatta resurgence".
Eels football manager Tony Zappia told AAP that the signing was subject to a final medical clearance.
"All our offers are subject to medical clearances. He's got one more clearance to get through but so far everything has been positive and he's three quarters of the way through it. Probably next week (he'll receive a clearance)."
When asked by AAP if the Eels were concerned about the injury, Zappia said: "I'm not a medical person but everything looks okay, he's got one more set of tests but everything seems to be positive."
Meanwhile, captain Nathan Cayless said in a separate AAP report that the Parramatta recruitment drive augured well for next year.
"It is one of the strongest on paper, but we've got to get out there and play as a team, do a lot of work in the off-season, bring everyone together. We want to get back into the top eight next year and give it a good shake."
Cayless confirmed he would sign for a further two-years on Thursday and also said he wanted to be an Eel for life. "That would be a great honour, something that I aspire to. But it doesn't always turn out the way you want it. If I am playing good enough footy the club will want to keep me."
The return of Marsh, as well as reports that the Eels have signed the Perenara brothers, have led to suggestions that former Warriors coach Daniel Anderson may be involved with the Eels in 2005. It has been speculated in some circles that Brian Smith may move into a role as coaching director with Anderson being made NRL coach. It was announced in the last week that Peter Sharp was already returning to Parramatta as assistant coach.
