Somewhat inclement weather prevailed for today’s field work, though I’m sure the players much prefer such conditions over the extreme heat.
Some warm ups and skills preceded the match simulations which was controlled by NRL referees. My comments will focus on the simulation.
Foran Stays On Conditioning
Keiran Foran has commenced the week on an individual conditioning program. We have all heard some recent media reports about the extra kilos of muscle and the extra yard of pace, and the conditioning program has been the key. Having watched our marquee recruit in recent match simulations, I’ll testify to the impact that he will have for the Eels. It would be an understatement to declare that Eels fans are eagerly awaiting his first match in the Blue and Gold.
Pauli – Still Here, Still Working Hard
Parramatta fans need to feel proud of this bloke. With the rumours about a contract at Newcastle doing the rounds in the media, Pauli is training just as hard as any of his team mates and looks to be in great shape. Today, Pauli was running for the “purple” team and causing problems with some strong running in the middle and the fringes of the ruck.
A fit Pauli can be a real handful for opposition defences. Another to look strong for the “purple” team today was Kelepi Tanginoa. I really like the lines that Kelepi runs and he has the pace to cause damage any time he breaks the line.
Along with Pauli, Kelepi’s form at training could see him push for NRL selection.
Mitch Cornish Continues to Shine
Although his signature was not considered to be high profile, securing Mitch Cornish might be one of the most astute decisions of the year.
Playing for the “purple” team today, Cornish confidently directed the play and combined nicely with Pauli. One such play brought the big bloke charging through the defence with memorable impact.
If the classy half continues this form into the trials and the early season, the pressure will be placed on Brad Arthur to find a place in the 17 for him.
Left or Right – It Won’t Matter
It has become clear that the combinations will be Taka and Gutho on the right, with Semi and Jenko together on the left. The value of these combinations is already evident on the training paddock. The pace of Jennings attracts the attention of the opposition centre and winger, opening up opportunities from either a Jennings pass or a cut out directly to Semi.
On the other side of the park, Gutherson is going to be the beneficiary of a fully fit Takairangi. To me, Taka on two legs is a revelation. His pace and footwork will create space for Gutherson on the wing. Think back to the try assists from Taka for Semi last year – these were done whilst carrying a leg injury. We will now be dangerous on both sides of the park.
It won’t just be Semi that defences will be watching.
Tim Mannah – Fitter Than Ever
Last year we saw the best from Tim Mannah. At least it appeared that way because he had an outstanding year. However, maybe it wasn’t his best because I believe that he has now reached a new level of fitness and determination. Today we watched the captain run multiple hit ups and decoys within the same set. Outstanding work.
Michael Gordon – Goal Kicker and Play Maker
The injection of Michael Gordon into the Eels attack will not just be as a support player. Firstly, our new fullback returns the kicks at pace, looking to create opportunities against the kick chase. Furthermore, when hitting the line, “Flash” can ball play – we saw such play create a try for Semi today.
As for his goal kicking, we can feel more confident about earning 6 points per try this year. Given the close games that Parra lost last year due to missed conversions, he could be the most vital addition to the team.
Is it Perfection at Training?
Not at all. Passes are dropped. Plays aren’t executed. Today we watched the “purple” team drop out of the game to allow a try scoring Gutherson to bring the ball closer to the posts for the conversion. This, of course, did not go down well. The key to the team lies in the body language and the “reload”. Every team will make mistakes but the Eels intend aiming up and “reloading” any time the play breaks down. You can hear the calls from the players as they remind each other about their focus.
Author’s Note
Great to catch up with a couple of newcomers to training today – Mark and Peter. Hope it gave you an insight into the work going on.
I’ll provide a training report for The Cumberland Throw tomorrow, then it’s back to work on Wednesday. As mentioned before, I’ll aim to provide a weekly update through our “friends of the Throw” correspondents.
Sixties
#Parra2K16
All photos courtesy of the Parramatta Eels.
Another great read and you’re done an outstanding job keeping us updated over the entire off season.
Can you please tell me what are the different teams at training? Eg Purple team.
The Blue team will often contain many of the first team squad whereas the purple team will contain many Wenty players. However, players will move between these “teams” on any day, and the dummy halves can swap between during the same session.
Excellent read again, you will be sorely missed once you go back to your job.
Is Junior Paulo still training?
I will be devastated if we lose any of these two talents, the other obviously being Pauli Pauli.
Cheers.
Yes, Junior is still there. He is contracted for the year and hasn’t signed anywhere else.
Thanks Sixtiesboy, great insight. from Ecniv in NZ
Not a bad place to be Vince!
Sixties, great read mate. Ryan will be back from the west next week for a course so we will sneak in the odd training session.
I haven’t seen you on 1eyed for a while? People are asking for you. haha!
Junior told me last week that he wanted to stay at the club next year in response to my querry and encouragement. I was rather shocked by the enthusiasm in his voice. Looks like it will get down to form and money…his and ours?!
Once again, I’d like to thank you for your diligent reporting and serious application to the task. Quite unique in this space.
Cheers Rowdy. I’ve popped in to 1eyed but this site is virtually a full time task during the pre-season. I too hope that things can be worked out with Junior. Money is important in a players career, but it’s not everything. If it comes down to the best club for Junior, it will be Parra.
As I mentioned before, Steven Edge recalled your time in his group with fondness. Hope to catch up with you during the season mate.
Thanks Sixties, I too recall our time with fondness. I might surprise you tomorrow about 0900. Now that’s spoilt the suprise.
Terrific update Sixties. Feels like I was there. Thanks for your commitment.
Cheers Jim and Rowdy. Thanks for the comments.
Great work sixties, I’m starting to get a little excited for the season ahead.
I’m trying to keep a lid on it (though you’d never guess from my reports!!!).
How’s the dummy half battle going sixties? Is Peats still the front runner? Have they been training for the Nines yet?
So many questions …sorry.
Also, thanks for all your reports this off season and previous years. Love your work.
Badge we haven’t seen any 9’s training yet. As for the hooker battle, it is fair to say that Peats is in pole position. IDG, King and Kaysa are all neck and neck for a bench spot if BA goes with a back up. Kaysa has inpressed with his speed, King with his attack and IDG with his all round efforts. Depth a plenty in the hooking role this year.
To add to Chris’ comments, I reckon that Cornish has also put his name forward in a utility bench role.
Sixties, love your work mate. I thought I would ask you for your opinion or whether you have heard anything, I have been told by whom I call a reliable source that Semi has been offered around a million$ to go play French rugby, this person also states that semi is not happy with what the Eels are paying him and is also looking at getting a new manager. All I can tell you is that my source works for the Titans and was told this by a certain manager (I don’t know who). Have you heard anything? Cheers.