Parramatta Eels – Season 2017 

The Good of 2017:

In 2016 we recorded enough wins to sit inside the Top 8, we uncovered Bevan French and Clint Gutherson and we beat Manly and the Bulldogs twice in a season. 2016 also saw us lock in Brad Arthur, we finally found the path to a stable board and front office and it became apparent to even to the most pessimistic Blue & Gold fans that the dark days might soon be over.

With that said, 2017 still probably exceeded even the most optimistic of expectations. Not only did the Eels make the Finals, we finished Top 4 – a target many scoffed at when our boys started publicly stating it in late July.

Despite the well intentioned efforts by all our boys, it wasn’t until the mid season addition of Mitchell Moses that we truly stamped our authority, winning 11 of 14 regular season games with him in the side (more on this below). In short, the arrival of The Prince of Egypt was a godsend for our season.

Clint Gutherson became the best utility player in the NRL (don’t @ me), Daniel Alvaro took the next step towards becoming a starting, workhorse prop, Matagi and Vave gave us some memorable moments and Nathan Brown deadset went nuclear. 

We continue to be in awe of Brad Arthur as he showed in 2017 that he is one of the best coaches in the NRL (similar credit needs to go to Paul Green and Craig Bellamy), as those games that often previously ended in heartbreak are finally being converted to wins.

In regards to specifics, my favourite wins were the borderline immoral destruction of the Broncos; twice (Rounds 21 and 25, although 21 was maybe our best game of the season). Then again, our Round 2 win over the Dragons was pretty spectacular, the comeback win over the Tigers in Round 7 was pretty important, as was the Round 13 comeback win over the Warriors. I also always love beating the Dogs (Round 17 and 22), and Manly (Round 1). It’s too hard to choose, and that’s always a good sign.

Despite a painful exit to the Cows in Week 2 of the Finals, 2017 was a very, very good year to be an Eels fan, particularly considering the almost decade of ineptitude that preceded it.

The Bad of 2017:

Just when you started to believe this team had turned over a new leaf, each of these games just rekindled those dark, tragic memories of the many flimsy, unfocused, inconsistent Eels teams of yesteryear. Thankfully, in a season where we won twice as many games as we lost, such reminders were relatively few and far between.

As mentioned above, our final game of the year against the Cows was also pretty gutting, but to be honest I was realistic regarding our chances this season (2018 is a different matter), and was just so proud of our Top 4 finish. Feel free to vehemently disagree with this assessment in the comments below, you jerks.

As your mate Bernie highlighted in our interview (listen to it here), losing Bevan French and Clint Gutherson to season ending injuries obviously had huge impact on our team’s chances, not to mention the retirement of IDG, and long sideline spells for Corey, Hoff, Fritchard, Scott, Kaysa, Kenny (suspension) and Peni (both suspension and injury). When you put it like that, our Top 4 finish was actually pretty miraculous. As I said, despite all of the above points and moment, Season 2017 has been something to cherish.

The MVP for 2017:

Still, the winner this season, without a shadow of a doubt, without a moment of hesitation; the Ken Thornett Medalist and best value buy in the NRL. 

Ladies and Gentlemen, the Cyborg – Nathan Brown.

You the MVP, Cyborg. You the MVP.

Key Questions for 2018:

* What will Kane Evans bring to the table?

* How much will the loss of Semi affect our attacking potency?

* Who are the candidate/s to replace one of the greatest wingers the game has ever seen?

* Can Mitchell Moses and Corey Norman’s combination go to another level?

* Who else (if anyone) will join the Eels for Season 2018?

* Will any of those rumoured signings (Rona, Hayne, Paulo, Napa) eventuate?

* Isn’t it funny how we have a little voice in our head? Like the one you’re using to read this?

* What’s next for Bevan French?

* Will Clint Gutherson return the same player?

* Who is the best candidate for the Number 1 jersey?

* Who will The Cumberland Throw interview next? Peter Sterling?The Prime Minister? The Beatles? Jesus?

Daniel Alvaro

The Polar Bear/Polar Express/Danny Boy

Middle Forward – Parramatta Eels

A huge leap in the level of play from the Polar Express this year, particularly in the back half of the season. The consistency that eluded his game (and the game of many young NRL players, particularly forwards), was finally achieved in the latter half of 2017. Remember when his selection in the final Country Rep side raised your eyebrow? Half a season later, it shouldn’t. Danny Boy can now be counted on game in, game out for his efficient work in the middle, on both sides of the ball. This year, Polar became a lock in our starting 17 for 2018, and likely many more years to come.

Notable Statistics – Your mate Daniel made a heap of tackles this year (29.1 per game, or 728 in total – second to only Nathan Brown), and only missed 32. Despite the very heavy workload, that leaves him with a very impressive 95.6% effective tackle rate; good enough for 4th in the side (making more tackles than the 3 blokes ahead of him combined). To sum up – Danny makes lots of tackles, and doesn’t miss many. 

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Relentless effort. Round 22, ANZ Stadium: 

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – With the addition of Kane Evans, this is particularly risky, but I’m going to say Daniel Alvaro will start more games in 2018 than he plays off the bench.

Kirisome Auva’a

Somi/Triple A

Centre/Wing – The Parramatta Eels

Another bad boy redemption story graced the Blue & Gold with the arrival of Kirisome Auva’a in 2018. Known more for his Premiership winning talents as a centre, injuries to Hoffy, Bevan and Gutho meant the Eels were very short on the right wing, and Triple A’s terrific kick return potential seemed to get him the nod. It wasn’t all roses once teams figured out his bomb catching kryptonite, but his incredible leg drive and bullocking runs seemed to keep him in BA’s good graces and starting side for a good chunk of the season.

Notable Statistics – As the Rugby League world already knows, Kirisome is the proud owner of the fastest try in NRL history, scoring after only 11 seconds in our Round 25 clash with the Broncos. Triple A also averaged the 5th most metres (106.7) of any Eel in 2017. Not bad.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – The easy answer would be his game sealing try against the Broncos in Round 21, that was a truly sublime moment. But no, I’ve narrowed it down to two different options: the first is the aforementioned fastest try in NRL history – a timely result of pressure. The second takes us back to Round 7, Easter Monday against the Tigers at ANZ where, after already scoring a barge over, go-ahead try in the 23rd minute, Kirisome’s chase on a Taka’s chip kick in the 59th minute reignited the Eels hopes for both the game and the season. Put himself in the position to benefit from good fortune.

If I had to choose between the two moments I would say “I don’t have to choose because this question is entirely my design and I will not take creative direction from the likes of you.“

I would probably choose that Tigers try, though.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – No starting wing spots for Somi in 2018. I love his tough carries, but he’s not made for catching either bombs or speeding, elusive wingers. 

Nathan Brown

The Cyborg/Browny/Shut It Down/Ken Thornett Medalist 

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

Forget Season 2017, is Nathan Brown the best value buy in the history of the NRL? On a contract you could barely trade in for a new car, we’re told Browny just wanted a chance to prove himself in a full time NRL role. Prove himself he did. Whether it was timing, Brad Arthur’s coaching, or sheer determination, Browny was far and away our best player this season, and a very worthy recipient of the Ken Thornett Medal.

Notable Statistics – Where do I begin? Not only did Nathan lead the team with 857 tackles (34.3 a game), he also had the 3rd most hit ups in the team. Sorry, that should read 3rd most hit ups in the NRL. He also had the 3rd most hit up metres in the NRL, the 9th most offloads, and 14th most tackles. I present to you, The Cyborg, Nathan Brown.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 10, Allianz Stadium:

There were 120,689 tackles made across the 2017 NRL regular season, but this tackle was deemed the best of the lot, winning the Dally M Tackle of the Year. Brutal, machine like force.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – The Cyborg will be upgraded to liquid metal anatomy in 2018, like the T-1000 from Terminator 2. Assuming he doesn’t turn against mankind and attempt to destroy our civilisation, it should be pretty cool.

Nathan Davis

That big bloke on the wing, that one time

Wing – The Parramatta Eels

Season 2017 probably didn’t present the debut (and only appearance) Nathan Davis was hoping for.

Notable Statistics – It’s funny his picture to the right shows him holding the ball, because in his sole game for the Eels in the top grade this season, Big Dave dropped it an unfortunate 3 times. On the other hand, he didn’t miss a single tackle all season …

I’m not sure if this counts as a statistic, but he is 192 cm tall (6’3″ in the old language) and 105 kg. I’m just saying that’s a great foundation for a Rugby League winger, and his 117 metres run in Darwin (in a game where we barely had the ball) shows a flash of his potential. I, for one, hope he gets more than a second shot in 2018.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 14, TIO Stadium: In the 52nd minute, Johnathan Thurston put up a midfield-ish bomb that came down 15 metres out on Nathan Davis’ wing which crucially would have landed about a metre from the sideline. A well intentioned but inexperienced Nathan Davis positioned himself to catch the bomb, only to be immediately bundled into touch by Antonio Winterstein and Kane Linnett. Coen Hess scored on the resulting set, taking the Cowboys to a 22-0 lead. It just wasn’t Nate Dog’s night. 

Well intentioned, but ultimately ineffective. 

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – He’s a much better player than we saw in Round 14 this year. Nathan Davis will string together at least 5 NRL games in 2018, and will show us some class doing it.

Kenny Edwards

Kramps/Kuddles/Kewards

Edge Forward – The Parramatta Eels

I don’t care what they say, as an Eels fan, I absolutely love the bloke. Opposition fans might not like him, but that’s just fine with me. As long as he’s able to stay out of trouble, he is an absolute integral part of our team’s future success.

Notable Statistics – Not a single meat pie for Kenny in Season 2017 – for the sake of all things holy let’s hope he didn’t cramp up during his nudie run.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – I guess it depends which Kenny Edwards you remember from 2017. The tear-your-hair-out Kenny reared his head in games against the Dogs (Round 17), and as mentioned above, the Cowboys (Round 9).

The rest of the NRL world were also outraged about his aggression in Round 21 vs the Broncs, but if I’m honest, seeing he didn’t make contact with the opposition player’s head, I thought he was more than entitled to do what he did. 

Still, the brilliant, energetic, ferocious Kenny Edwards showed up much more frequently than the headline grabbing moments of madness, so I continue to wave Kenny’s flag until further notice.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Kenny Edwards avoids negative press for at least the first half of the season, until his energy and aggression get taken out of context. Again.

Bevan French

French Fries/Air France/Champagne 

Fullback/Wing – The Parramatta Eels

When you listen to Anthony Field’s interview with TCT (available here), it becomes evident just how lucky we are that Bevan chose to become an Eel. I say this not only due to his commendable character and obvious playing ability; but also since so many other clubs were chasing him, with many offering substantially more money than us. I thought he started becoming too reliant on the dummy (as opposed to actually passing it) this season, as defences started wising up to his tactics, but I’m sure he and the coaching staff will find the right balance. With his combination of speed and natural footballing instinct, French Fries has the ability to be absolutely anything, and can score four pointers from absolutely anywhere on the park – I’m talking long range tries, line running tries, chip and chase tries, tries in a box, tries with a fox, you get the idea.

Notable Statistics – Although once again Bevan’s defence wasn’t outstanding (78.1% effective tackle rate – 2nd worst on the team), he did lead the team in defused kicks (78) and was 3rd in the team for line breaks (13), which puts him 17th in the NRL despite only playing 16 games. Not bad.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 2, WIN Stadium:

I can’t work out whether there’s four or five dummies in this play. Maybe why he’s so keen on them, because this try was something else. Brilliant, fast and elusive. 

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Bevan tops the 20 try mark in 2018. 

David Gower

The Good Dr. Gower

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

I was pretty pleased when it came through the wireless that Dr. Dave was committing to us for another season. He’s a very, very serviceable back up forward, and an excellent contributor to our Wenty side otherwise. 

Notable Statistics – Doctor, Doctor, give me the news. He’s got a bad case of effective tackling technique. Of all players who played at least 5 games this season, Gower had the highest effective tackle rate at 97.5%. The boy doesn’t miss – think of him as a sniper, but with, like .. tackles.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – It mightn’t describe his 2017, but remember that 72nd minute kick chase try he scored against the Broncos in Round 25? That was wild.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – It will be front page news when the secret is finally out – David Gower isn’t actually a doctor at all.

Clinton Gutherson

The King/Gutho/Lemon/The Guthbus

Fullback/Utility – The Parramatta Eels

After the past 12 months, it might be easy to forget that Clint Gutherson was only a pretty good player coming into 2017. He had played pretty well at fullback and centre, and had been unexpectedly shifted to five-eighth prior to the start of this season. Although his few first rounds were pretty good, from about Round 8 onwards, Clint’s form went deadset berserk. This meteoric rise of the GuthBus was something to behold; he was creating plays, line breaks, tackle breaks, passes and tries from just about any point on the field. He even dislodged fellow superfreak Bevan French from the number 1 jersey in the process. Clinton was all on track for the unlikeliest of Dally M contentions (which Sixties had money on at 100-1, mind you), until Round 20 when a season ending knee injury put a immediate stop to the dream run. Irrespective of how it ended, Lemon’s salivating run of form is something to cherish for 2017, and something to dream about toward 2018.

Notable Statistics – Do you ever find yourself wondering if Gutho is as good as you remember? Well despite only playing 18 games, the Guthbus still finished 14th in the NRL for linebreaks (with 14 – also 2nd in the team). He was also 2nd in the team for dummy half runs (37), 3rd in the team for long kicks (11) and 4th in the team for try assists (6).

One Moment to Describe 2017 – I could easily highlight his many linebreaks and runaway tries. I could propose his match sealing try against the Warriors in Round 13 or him singing Eye of the Tiger (the opposition’s team song) before kick off in Round 20. Instead I’m going to Round 8, ANZ Stadium: 

He doesn’t always look pretty doing it, in fact it’s often kinda funny. But what he does often works really, really well. Clint Gutherson in a nutshell. What a legend.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Clint Gutherson comes back like he never left and plays every one of our games in 2018.

Josh Hoffman

The Hoff/Hoffdog

Wing – The Parramatta Eels

Only suiting up in 13 of our 26 games really skews the top line of statistics above. However, his unusually high missed tackle rate (with a team low 70.7% effective tackle rate) both stands out and sours the per game bottom line.

Notable Statistics – No offloads Hoffy? Really? Then again, Josh also avoided conceding a single penalty. Swings and roundabouts, I guess. Interestingly, despite only playing those 13 games, Hoff led the team in dummy half runs (40), beating out another injured back Clint Gutherson (37). That’s more than 3 a game from Hoffy, compared to say 0.5 from Semi Radradra. 

One Moment to Describe 2017 – It’s a split between a forward pass from Bevan for a disallowed try against Manly in Round 1, and the brilliant break from the back field to Will Smith under the posts, only for it to be also (this time questionably) called a forward pass against Souths in Round 12. Josh Hoffman’s season had flashes of a lot of things, but not a great deal of it came off – often through no fault of his own.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Josh Hoffman plays at least 18 games next season, with at least 1 of those not on the wing.

Michael Jennings

The Jet/Jenko

Centre – The Parramatta Eels

It feels like we saw a necessary evolution to Jenko’s game (and beard) in 2017. Although he is still lightning off the mark and as elusive as ever (2nd in the team for tackle breaks with 44), Jenko’s 29th trip around the sun marked his transition to defensive specialist, showing leadership with both an inexperienced winger in Auva’a on one side and the once-a-turnstile Moses on the other. The defence of each player significantly improved defenders with Jenko alongside them.

Notable Statistics – The Jet’s experienced defence really came to the fore in 2017, leading the team in one-on-one tackles (35). Jenko was also 3rd in the team for tries (10) and 4th in line breaks (11). 

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 2, WIN Stadium:

“He’s still got it” is an understatement.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Michael Jennings will once again prove that this old dog has a couple of new tricks. Although he won’t star every week, The Jet will show up younger, more faniced opponent centres on several different occasions.

Cameron King

Kingy/The Other King/Return of the King

Hooker – The Parramatta Eels

Called in replace Kaysa Pritchard, who was already being supported by Will Smith, and who was replacing first choice hooker Isaac DeGois; it didn’t seem that Cameron King was going to worth a lot of interest as basically our fourth string rake option. Sorry if you’re reading this Kingy (never leave us), but I remember watching Cameron in the preseason trial at Penrith, thinking he looked a little slow and disinterested.

How very wrong many of us were. Thankfully the Kingy in first grade was nothing of the sort.

Kingy not only filled in admirably, but in many ways took our hooking position in a different direction. A workhorse rake with precision passing, Cameron King’s inclusion did wonders for our attacking structure and provided a terrific foil for Mitch Moses’ game. 

Notable Statistics – Kingy averaged a team high 40.2 tackles and 1.3 missed tackles a game, in front of Kaysa’s 35.8 and 2.6 respectively. Kingy also had 92.4 passes a game; compared with Kaysa’s 70.5 (adjusted for his final game).

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Rising to the occasion. Round 17, ANZ Stadium: In his first ever game in the Blue & Gold, and first in the NRL for 733 days, Cameron King finds himself under pressure in extra time, yet still delivers an absolute perfectly placed, spiral pass for Mitchell Moses to win the game.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Cameron King plays at least 20 games in the Blue & Gold, and continues to provide exceptional value for money.

Tim Mannah

Captain Courageous/Mannah Time/Mannah From Heaven

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

Notable Statistics – Tim Mannah didn’t pass or run from dummy half even once in 2017. Pick up your game ‘Captain’.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 9, Townsville: Kenny Edwards has been sent to the bin, and the Eels have opened the door for a Thurstonless Cowboys to come back into the game. Instead, Captain Mannah takes an inside pass from Kaysa Pritchard, runs 10 metres straight into Kalyn Ponga’s helpless face, plants the ball down and sighs in the satisfaction of victory.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Although they will continue to show their worth as leaders, injury will mean someone other than Mannah and Scott will wear the (c) next to their name on at least one occasion in 2018.

Suaia Matagi

Poke. The. Bear.

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

I hear Suaia cheered during the bear attack scene in The Revenant.

Notable Statistics – The Bear was one of only two players to play all 26 Eels games in 2017 (for those playing along at home, Semi was the other).

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 1, Brookvale (I’m not calling it Lottoland):

Uncompromising aggression.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – After the North Sydney Bears bid for the Gold Coast Titans fails, Suaia realises his dream will never be fulfilled and extends his contract with the Eels.

Manu Ma’u

Monster Mash

Edge Forward – The Parramatta Eels

Coming down from the heights of his 2016 Ken Thornett Medalist season, Manu had a comparatively quiet season in 2017. He was still frequently excellent, known to be running over 150 metres and making over 30 tackles in single games, but this was dispersed with the odd quiet game; something not often seen from Monster Mash in the previous year. Still, his form still deserves demands his spot in the 11 jersey, and we are not the same team when he is not around.

Notable Statistics – Manu was second in the team for offloads (27), behind the Ken Thornett Medalist. He is also now only behind heart disease as the leading preventable cause of fatalities in Australia.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 1, Brookvale:

He might have only got across the stripe once this year, but he provided the foundation for a lot of other Eels’ tries. This one above just happens to be the fanciest. 

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Pennywise the Clown checks under his bed and finds Manu Ma’u. As a result, there is no “It” sequel. 

Tepai Moeroa

Tep/Moer or Less/Junior

Edge Forward – The Parramatta Eels

When was the last time you looked in the mirror and reminded yourself that Tepai Moeroa is only 22 years old? Tep did have a much better back end to the year, particularly seeing the last couple of years have shown him tire after about Round 20. Let’s hope that momentum can continue into 2018. We already love his 27 tackles a game, particularly with the ferocity in which Tep hits; however, I suspect the 8.3 metres per run is something Tepai will circle to improve on for Season 2018. If he manages to do so – look out world.

Notable Statistics – In other news, Tep had as many linebreaks (3) as Brad Takairangi and Will Smith, and only one less than Josh Hoffman (4). You might also be surprised to learn Moer or Less scored 4 tries this season, which places him at equal 7th in the side. Unless of course you already knew that, in which case you wouldn’t be surprised at all.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 12, ANZ Stadium:

A scary combination of power and speed.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – It all just clicks. Tepai Moeroa has one of those seasons that makes fans and journos take note. Tep joins Ma’u and Brown to complete a truly terrifying back row trinity. 

Mitchell Moses

The Prophet/The Prince of Egypt

Halfback – The Wests Tigers Parramatta Eels

I could barely be more pleased with our acquisition of Mitchell Moses. I suspect the scepticism I and many other Eels fans had regarding his defensive liability have been allayed to some extent, so credit to both Mitch and the coaching staff for the necessary work and amendments done there. The Prophet has stayed true to form, already leading us to our (and his) first Finals series in Year Number 1, and I thought it is also a nice little sidenote that Mitch was an Eels fan growing up. Welcome home mate, hope you’re here for many years to come.

Notable Statistics – Mitch was a more effective defender than Josh Hoffman (70.7%), Bevan French (78.1%) and Semi Radradra (80.7%) with a 81.3% effective tackle rate. Interestingly, Mitch still led the team in total missed tackles (in only 16 games), due to the amount of work opposition teams asked him to do.

Mitch also kicked at 82% (27 from 33), which a great relief for a team which came into Season 2016 without a recognised kicker. With that said, Gutho certainly proved his worth so now we have two great options. Go figure.

Mitch also led the team in try assists (15) and line break assists (also 15), creating more holes in opposition defensive lines than there are in the flat earth theory. Mitch was also second in total kicks (149), behind Corey’s 215. Here’s some bonus statistics below, comparing the play of The Prince of Egypt, both before and after he moved across to the Eels.

I included the above passing stat to show that he did have a similar amount of touches at both clubs, but there was a dramatic increase in his try assist and line break (LBs) numbers in particular after switching clubs. There were also modest increases in his tackle breaks per game (TBkPG) and forced drop outs (FDOs). He also dramatically reduced his missed tackle numbers once he donned the Blue & Gold, from 4.5 at the Tigers, down to a touch under 3 at Parra; take that how you will.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Finals Week 1, AAMI Park: 

Crafty and surprisingly effective.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Mitchell Moses finishes in the Top 5 in the league for either try or line break assists, and takes some serious steps towards shedding the ‘potential’ from his millstone ‘potential superstar’ tag.

Corey Norman

Normy/Normz/Yeah Nah

Halfback/Five Eighth – The Parramatta Eels

Corey came out of the blocks brilliantly in 2017, not only scoring our maiden try against Manly, but steering the sides to victory in Rounds 1 and 2 in particular. In the games BM (Before Moses), Corey was often the be all and end all of our attacking options, so times where he was tackled on the fourth were compounded, and the games where he didn’t play well often meant a loss for the side. Once Mitchell arrived however, you sensed Corey’s demeanour and game relax a little, and this was obviously beneficial for the team (even if it wasn’t necessarily better for Corey’s individual numbers or accolades). Hopefully Corey continues to feel comfortable either playing with a sidekick or playing sidekick himself with a specialised halves partner, however it happens to shake out.

Notable Statistics – Everyone’s mate Corey was 9th in the NRL in total kicks, and 19th in try assists. Team wise he led the team in kicks, was 2nd in try assists, 2nd in line break assists, 4th in tackle breaks and a partridge in a pear tree.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 26, ANZ Stadium:

I don’t know if it was rose coloured glasses, but I remember thinking at the time that this pass was one of the prettiest plays I have ever seen. Natural talent, made better with practice and good coaching. 

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Corey Norman makes his long awaited State of Origin debut. 

Rory O’Brien

The Woolly Mammoth

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

Games	LBs	OLs	PC	Tries
3	0	2	0	0
RPG	MPR	TkPG	MTkPG	TkBPG
6.0	7.6	7.3	1.3	0.7
Last Year’s Fearless Prediction for Season 2017 – Sadly Rory O’Brien’s dream of becoming a world class ballet dancer will remained unfulfilled.
Accuracy –  Above: Not Rory O’Brien.                 Score: 5 out of 5.

I heard Rory played 3 good games, I heard he had a style. And so I came to see him and watch him for a while. There he was, this gigantic uber boy, stranger to my eyes.

Notable Statistics – It’s a small sample size but Rory missed 4 tackles in his 3 games, relegating him to our 4th least effective tackler. His 45 metres per game contribution as a prop doesn’t really endear him, either.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – You know that time at the game, when he did that thing? You know what I mean. That was a good time.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – This part of the post has been about as brief as Rory’s 2017 contributions. Sadly, we won’t see Rory O’Brien in the Blue & Gold again.

Frank Pritchard

The Tank

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

I must say it was nice to have a bloke I considered an enemy for so many years rocking up in the Blue & Gold. I’m glad he’s not so much an integral cog to our success, but rather a wise, supporting, experienced head to have around at training, and occasionally on game day. Good to have you, Mr. Tank.

Notable Statistics – Remembering his miss on Kieran Foran in Round 6 against the Warriors, and his miss on Herman Ese’ese in Round 25 against the Broncos, I was surprised to read that Frank actually has a pretty impressive effective tackle rate of 93.5%, missing only 8 tackles the season. I was wrong, Frank, but you gotta make those big time tackles, mate.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Frank’s 19 minute debut for the Eels was not only his return to the NRL, it was the first top class NRL game he’d ever played with his brother, Kaysa. Despite his aggressive style and huge frame, Frank’s a big old softy. He’s also a brilliant ambassador for ‘Try Time’, a rugby league program for people with an intellectual disability, which you can read more about here. Hat offs to you, big Frankie.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Frank will likely play less than 5 games in the top grade for the Eels in 2018. His experience and community contributions, however, will grow ever more valuable.

Kaysa Pritchard

Kayssss/Kamakaze

Hooker – The Parramatta Eels

Not unlike his hooking counterpart, Kaysa had to overcome plenty of injury clouds to even be able to suit up for the Eels in 2017. And just when you thought one bloke wouldn’t have to prove his ability to come back from serious injury again, in rolled those clouds during our Round 15 clash with the Dragons. However, if there was a silver lining, it would be the fact that as a result of Kingy’s baptism of fire, we now have two legitimate starting rakes competing for that 9 jersey come Round 1. 

Notable Statistics – Comparing defensive workload, Kaysa interestingly is still second on the team in tackles per game (37.2), even once you minus his 11 minute return stint (and 14 tackles) in Week 2 of the Finals. However, Kaysa ran for more average metres than Kingy (10.5 to King’s 8.1).

One Moment to Describe 2017 – It would be easy nominate the gut wrenching injury as Kaysa’s key moment, but his gutsy determination wouldn’t have it. Week 2 of the Finals, ANZ Stadium: Kaysa Pritchard returns to the field for the Blue & Gold 12 weeks after tearing his lateral collateral and posterior cruciate ligaments – an injury some thought might have ended his career. Courageous and determined.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – I’m sorry Kaysa, I love your game, but I’m doing the old copy paste from last year. It won’t be Kaysa who wears the 9 jersey in 2018 (I just think he’s a perfect 14).

Semi Radradra

Bula/The Trailer/The Giantic Fijian

Winger – The Parramatta Eels

After starting the year hot and cold (hot; Round 2 vs Dragons; cold: the other 8 or so games), Semi found a serious run of form in the back half of the year. These subsequent fond memories will be particularly important when mere mortal wingers man our edges in future seasons.

Notable Statistics – Let’s start with the not so good. As mentioned above, Semi’s effective tackle rate (80.7%) rank was concerning, good bad enough for third worst in the side. He also had the 4th most errors in the league, which caught me off guard. For no other reason than its comical value, Semi also apparently put in 2 kicks this season for a total of 7 kicking metres. A Fijian Tony Lockett he is not. 

With that said, it’s fair to say Semi still very much earns his keep. Semi was 1st in our team for try saving tackles, Semi ranked 3rd in the league for line breaks (22), 7th for all run metres (3777) 14th for kick return metres (777), and 17th for tackle breaks (74). His 22 tries were also good enough for equal 3rd in the league, behind the two Storm wingers. Those stats are going to be very difficult to replace in 2018.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – One moment? How about 3 of my favourite Semi tries for 2017? Yeah, I thought so.

Round 25, Suncorp Stadium:

and …

and lastly, Finals Week 2, ANZ Stadium:

It feels fitting that Semi’s last try in the Blue & Gold for a while is a length-of-the-field cracker.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Semi won’t be back for 2018, but he will be back at the end of his 2 year deal in Toulon, in time for mid way through Season 2019.

You better come back soon Semi, before the media completely forgets who you are.

Regardless, the Blue & Gold Army, will not forget you mate.

Jeff Robson

That Zombie Thing from I Am Legend/Robbo

Halfback – The Parramatta Eels

A credit to one of the nicest blokes to ever lace up a boot. Robbo made his way through 177 games, 4 different clubs and two stays at the Eels. 

Notable Statistics – Jeff Robson had a 1.00 try scoring rate in 2017, scoring a try from his only NRL game this year (Round 3 vs Titans). Stick that in your pipe, Vunivalu.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Just the fact that the wiley veteran showed up for Season 2017 is credit enough for a 35 year old whose face has seen prettier days. Robbo was a great servant to 4 different clubs (Manly, Sharks, Warriors), but Eels fans will always remember him in the Blue & Gold.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Jeff Robson will excel in retirement and become a very competitive Mahjong player.

Beau Scott

Killer/Milat/Mister Beau Scott, sir

The Punisher – The Parramatta Eels

Big bad, Beau Scott was still as bad as ever. Not even a torn pec muscle could keep him down, although not that a soulless, emotionless machine has a pec, per se. 

Notable Statistics – Although he didn’t have any line breaks in 2017, he did break a lot of opposition spirits. In his typical aggressive fashion, he also conceded the equal most penalties for anyone in our side (14), despite only playing 14 games.  I believe a few of those were for being found on the field in the possession of a shiv.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – [details suppressed until the outcome of his current criminal trial]

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Beau will threaten the lives of Father Time’s family. As a result we should expect to see Beau back to his evergreen self by the start of the preseason.

William Smith

The Fresh Prince

Fullback/Utility – The Parramatta Eels

Will came into the top grade with a utility tag, playing support to Kaysa, and providing a fill in for every position in the back line. However, injury meant Will ended up deputising at the fullback position; showing a safe set of hands and some piercing eyes runs. 

Notable Statistics – Will is the equal team leader for sin bin appearances (1) with your mate Kenny Edwards. This isn’t exactly a statistic, but he’s also incredibly good looking.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 24, ANZ Stadium:

It might not have been the most memorable game proper (there were only 6000 of us there), but Will Smith tore the Titans apart on two occasions that night, this being the first. If you look close he actually beat Kane Elgey twice in one run. Too fast, too good. 

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Despite BA having huge wraps on him, a glut of backline options returning means it’ll be the second half of the season before we see The Fresh Prince back in the top grade, and even then it’ll be as back up hooker, rather than fullback.

Brad Takairangi

Taka/Tuck It

Centre – The Parramatta Eels

I’m not sure if he’ll always be a centre, but I just love Big Brad’s versatility, playing both centre and five-eighth at different times this season. In short, I’m very glad Brad plays for the Blue & Gold (thanks Jason Taylor!)

Notable Statistics – Taka was 3rd in the team for try assists (7), a respectable 4th in the team for both offloads (20) and total kicks (18). On the other side of the coin, Taka was equal 5th in team for errors (tied with Kenny on 17).

One Moment to Describe 2017 – The aforementioned kick for Somi’s try in Round 7, and the key pass to set up Hoffy’s try minutes later catapulted the Eels back into a game they were well out of, and eventually towards an unlikely victory (whereas a loss would have been our fifth in a row). These 3 or so game changing minutes show the incredible value of Taka’s versatility. We would not have won that game without his contributions.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – This is big call but I think there’s a chance Taka will play less games at centre than he does in other positions next season.

Peni Terepo

The Butcher

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

It was a stop start season for The Butcher, losing the first 4 rounds to suspension, and then facing an extended spell on the sidelines with a pec injury for almost the rest of the year. He’ll come back better in 2018, but it’s a shame he could never really develop the sort of momentum he had at the end of 2016.

Notable Statistics – Peni only exceeded 100 running metres once in Season 2017 (Round 6 vs Warriors). With that said, he went as close as you can get in our final game vs the Cows with 99. On the other side of the ball, Peni once again proved his worth with the 5th best effective tackle rate in the team with 95.6% of his attempted tackles sticking.

One Moment to Describe 2017 – Round 7, ANZ Stadium: In the 77th minute, Peni saved the game for the Eels by tackling a would-be runaway James Tedesco, only to tear his pectoral muscle in the process. That one moment allowed Parra’s season to rekindle, but subsequently derailed the momentum of Mr Terepo’s. 

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Sadly, I predict that Peni Terepo is in that perennial 18th man position for the Eels in 2018, and it will be injury to another forward that provides his opportunity back in the top grade.

Siosaia Vave

Viva la Vave/Seniōre Vave

Middle Forward – The Parramatta Eels

Notable Statistics – Siosaia amazingly only missed 9 tackles the whole season, giving him a remarkable (surprising?) 96.7% effective tackle rate; good enough for second on the team (for those who played at least 5 games).

One Moment to Describe 2017 – I could have chosen Viva la Vave’s lone try for the season; it was Round 11 against the Raiders, (and on his birthday, mind you). But Vave’s value isn’t often seen in highlight reels. You won’t get those flashy, beat three defenders, chip and chase try moments with blokes the size of Siosaia. What you can hope for is a solid cart up the middle and the opportunity provided by a quick play the ball. Round 8, ANZ Stadium:

… and then on the following play …

Back stage honour, but front of stage contribution.

Fearless Prediction for Season 2018 – Vave scores his second try in the Blue & Gold, this time in a winning side. 

Viva la Vave!