Well, what an afternoon that was.

In case you missed it, here’s how Jimmy Hooper broke the story.

I’d like to think the The Cumberland Throw is abreast of most things coming out of Eels Central, but I must admit this bombshell was very, very surprising news. We knew the Eels were serious about Moses, but it sort of got lost in Cronkgate from yesterday.

A few of the guys I speak to about Eels related matters knew ‘something big was about to happen‘, but that’s seriously as close as any of my sources were to knowing. In short, it either happened very quickly or both camps kept an incredibly tight lid on it all. Probably a combination of both.

Nonetheless, to dissect all things Moses – The Throw has called together an emergency round table discussion. Let’s get down to it.

First question, Mitch Moses to Parra for two (maybe two and a half) years – is that a good thing?

Mitch: Yes. Very, very good news for Parra. Sure, Cronk would have been out of this world, but Moses is a very good acquisition for the Eels.

Sixties: A talented Eels junior rep returning to the fold – of course. His decision isn’t just about the money, so that gets a huge thumbs up from me.

Chris: I rate him, he is young, has speed and a kicking game. Also comes for less than he could have got elsewhere and wants to improve his game. That’s BA’s speciality.

Forty:

Is there anything you’re worried about regarding Moses’ signing?

M: Obviously his defence is the biggest concern, but I’m also a little concerned with how we’ll go employing two run-first halves (not dissimilar to our current set up). Still, let me be clear – I’m stoked.

S: With my own doubts over his defence, perhaps I can find the answer in his team mates. How often is he left posted during Tigers matches? A selling point was the Eels “enforcers”. I have no doubts about his courage in putting himself in front of the big boppers.

C: I think his defence improved last year. I remember he took Bryce Cartwright in a fantastic 1 on 1 tackle that made me sit up and take notice. He will be a lot better in the Eels team with experience around him under a different game plan.

F:

How do you think he’ll work with Corey?

M: As I touched on above, I think there are some reservations, but I think he’ll be great. Worst case scenario I think we’ve just purchased Corey-lite.

S: He wants to develop his game as a half. To that end he’ll need to become more direct in his play. He’s had to be the dominant half at the Tigers, so taking on responsibility won’t be an issue. His decision to seek development ahead of coin speaks volumes about his desire.

C: He will go great with Corey. Left and right foot kickers, and while he is a runner, he is coming to be a dominant half back. I think he will get there.

F:

What do you do with Clint Gutherson?

M: I’m of the opinion Clint is actually a centre, who happens to do an excellent job at 6. I’d move him back out wide, and I’d LOVE to see Taka come off the bench in a Mr Fix It role.

S: Gutho can play anywhere. He’s that good, he’s that versatile. He’ll be in first grade, and that’s all that matters to me.

C: After a very rocky start last year on the wing, he had a really solid year. He is an amazing athlete, smashes everyone in pre season fitness regime. He has played well this year, his defence is very solid. He will replace Semi on the wing and cover Taka in the centres.

F:

What do you think the chances are that Moses comes over to us this season?

M: I think the Tigers will play hard ball, but it will be awkward at the very least. I’m hoping they cave.

S: The public declaration seeking an immediate release could make life difficult for Cleary. I don’t expect any moves before we play the Tigers.

C: He will play Round 8 for the Eels. There is no way Cleary will have him in first grade after his public declaration as per Sixties’ comment.

F: 

Take off your blue and gold glasses for a moment, what do you think this does for Parra’s Premiership chances?

M: I’d put us in the Top 6 for 2018, which is in the mix. Melbourne have just taken a big hit, but the Roosters, Penrith, Raiders and maybe even Manly will be there when the dust settles in 2018.  I think we’re right up there now, but we have plenty more additions to come yet.

S: Ever the optimist, I still rated our best footy as finals worthy. We’ve lost our way recently, so we have to get the basics right, no matter who lines up in the jersey. In the long run, you will always benefit from adding a talented playmaker to the roster.

C: He is a quality player and balances the team out, probably better than it is today. We are an improving team but not a premiership contender in my opinion – yet. Next year, with another couple of signings you will see further improvement and a top four finish. We are no longer a club that pays overs, but a club that players will come to and stay for less. One thing that concerns me is all these players with contracts ending in 2019, same year as the coach. Don’t think that is a great situation for the club – is for BA though!

F:

It’s another fun time to be an Eels fan, and you can bet there’ll be more news to come soon.

Go you Eels,

Mitch

Ps: Forty20 would like to note the GIFs are his way of protesting Mitch’s word count restrictions.

Pps: Noted. -M

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