The Cumberland Throw

Post Game Grades – Round 11 vs Warriors

Parramatta_Eels_logo.svg  Parramatta Eels 14

 New Zealand Warriors 24

The Good:
Large parts of the second half reminded the 9000 or so fans in attendance that the Parramatta Eels can still play good football.

Other than that, at least you’ve got the weekend ahead of you.

The Bad:
To be brutally honest, the entire first half was hot garbage from the Blue & Gold. Completing only 13 from 19 sets (68%) and making 8 errors do not provide a platform for any sort of footballing success. However even more concerning was the lack of intent and pride shown by a number of players at even the hint of misfortune, whether it be a dropped ball or conceded penalty.

There were parts of that opening 40 where team looked about as interested in this game as the NRL public are about kickoff 6pm on a Friday.

If you can stomach watching any sort of replay or highlight, watch the Eels first half defence completely shut off their interest in the play whenever the ball shifts to the other side of the field. To me it screamed of a collection of 17 individuals, rather than a team.

Also, do you hear that? It’s the sound of yet another mid field bomb from the Eels. I don’t want to come across as overly negative, but on those occasions in many ways it would probably be easier for all involved if we simply handed the ball to the nearest opposition player.  Kick. To. The. Corners.

X-Factor:
I won’t lie to you, it was pretty empty at old ANZ tonight.

I know I keep harping on about it but our halves inability or refusal (I’m not sure which one’s worse) to engage the line leaves our attacking structures as either one off settlers (with no support play) or a sideways run pattern on a bridge to nowhere. When our halves engage the line we suddenly find a lot more space to exploit on the edges. It’s not rocket science, but it does require getting hit, and right now the only hits we’re absorbing are on the scoreboard.

So here we are at 2-9 for the season. Sure, we won’t win the premiership this season, but maybe the real premiership is the friends we made along the way.

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The MVP:

 

Gutho was everywhere once again, David Gower was outstanding, Manu Ma’u was excellent but tonight’s MVP is Peni Terepo.

First time winner too, I believe; so he’ll no doubt be stoked.

You the MVP, Peni, you the MVP.

1- Clint Gutherson (c)

Fullback, Parramatta Eels

Out there tonight (and most nights for that matter) Gutho just seems like the Parramatta fan base personified; passionate, desperate and seemingly out of ideas on where to from here. Good on him getting a nice little try early in the second half, leading the lead the team in yardage (177 metres), linebreaks (1) and unfortunately errant passes (2).

2- Bevan French

Left Wing, Parramatta Eels

You see I don’t actually have that much of a problem with Bevan’s involvement tonight, but rather that there simply wasn’t enough of it. In a team with a frequently struggling forward pack, I don’t see how we can carry a winger whose 80 minute body of work only produces 3 runs for 29 metres – I mean he would have walked further making his way into the ground. He also broke a tackle, but that’s basically it.

3- Michael Jennings

Right Centre, Parramatta Eels

Some are calling it his worst ever game in the Blue & Gold, but I think that’s a couple of steps too far. Sure he made mistakes (3 of them) and missed tackles (2 with 1 more ineffective), but he also ran for 117 metres (from 12 hit ups) and that’s not bad.

To be clear, it was not a good game from the Jet, (at all) but I also don’t want to completely ignore the things he actually did do right.

4- Brad Takairangi

Left Centre, Parramatta Eels

Other than the worst grubber kick option you’ll likely ever see, Taka was his regular solid self out there tonight. Always there for the much maligned second hit up, not the sexiest talent out there, but a Taka remains a bit of a glue guy for the Eels in 2018, and his 14 runs for 111 metres were very necessary (see French, Bevan).

5- George Jennings

Right Wing, Parramatta Eels

What a deadset embarrassing miss for Hiku’s try in the 20th minute. With that said, that was his only miss and George’s 14 runs for 118 metres were good, as were his 4 tackle breaks. I’m still a member of his fan club, but tonight’s performance isn’t going to be written about in our monthly newsletter.

6- Corey Norman

Five-Eighth, Parramatta Eels

I know this debate tends to divide a lot of Eels fans, but tonight I grew even more confident in my assertion that I would have Mitch Moses in control of my football team over Corey Norman every day of the week. I know Corey is a laid back character, but it shouldn’t translate to his attacking intensity. Tonight Corey could once again be found meandering into the Warriors defensive line at maybe half pace, constantly swinging somewhere between mildly confused and completely clueless in our attacking 20. For goodness sake Corey you didn’t even kick the ball into touch and missed a team high 4 tackles. I mean I love the bloke, but his body language throughout tonight’s game was dreadful and his lack of impact in recent weeks has been astounding.

At first I thought he did well to almost deny David Fusitu’a’s opening try, but as noted in the comments below, apparently even that was half assed. His only saving grace is apparently he ran for 94 metres tonight.

He is a very, very good footballer when he’s on, but right now he looks borderline apathetic out there.

7- Mitchell Moses

Halfback, Parramatta Eels

Outside of our two tries, the cheer that went up when Moses successfully kicked for touch rivalled any other moment of fan engagement on the night, on par with the 65th entrance of Marata Niukore.

Mitchell tries hard, and is an infinitely more effective player when he straightens the attack, threatening the opposition line with his running game. He wasn’t great tonight, but he’s not giving up, either.

8- Daniel Alvaro

Prop, Parramatta Eels

I thought Alvaro’s attacking intent was much improved this week (11 runs for 106 metres, 2 tackle breaks), and when you take into account his regularly incredible defensive workload, he is the least of our worries. He was a whisker of an angle away from breaking the line open a couple of times. I just hope he can pump out more of these 100m+ running games.

9- Cameron King

Hooker, Parramatta Eels

Once again Kingy provided clean, no-nonsense service to his forwards and halves, but he only really got game time in the opening stanza. Subsequently, Cameron didn’t really have that big an impact on the game, other than the fact I’m pretty sure it was he who kicked the ball out on the full. Ouch.

 

10- Peni Terepo

Prop, Parramatta Eels

Other than a set in the first half where it took Peni 4 tackles into the Eels set to find his way onside, The Butcher was our best player tonight. Even with a strange propensity to run almost directly across field (doubt him at your own peril, it lead to our second try), Terepo’s 13 runs for 145 metres is crazy good output from a starting prop, particularly when you throw in 3 tackle breaks, a try assist and 27 tackles without a miss.

11- Beau Scott

Back Row, Parramatta Eels

It is honestly sad to think that Beau Scott’s brilliant career will be possibly ended by an ACL injury in a mostly rubbish team performance in front of about 3 people. He deserved to go out in much finer fashion, but it evidently wasn’t meant to be.

With that said, I’m not certain whether he’d be even in the team without our slew of injuries. I mean, if it’s experience you require of Beau Scott, surely a less risky option would be to simply sit him next to the bench and get him to tell old war stories about the better times of yesteryear. Whatever happens I’ll miss making up creepy facts about his murderous life away from football.

12- Tepai Moroea

Back Row, Parramatta Eels

Tep’s 8 runs for 77 metres again seemed to have moments of excitement and half breaks, but ultimately stayed under than magic 100 metre mark. I must say I am also a little concerned that one of the guys we consider a defensive presence (another 30 tackles tonight) continues to miss so many (3 missed, a further 3 ineffective). Food for thought, Mr. Moroea.

13- Manu Ma’u

Lock, Parramatta Eels

Monster Mash is 6 kinds of crazy, and they were all out in force tonight. His 17 runs and 154 metres were very impressive, as was his go ahead try in the 62nd minute. Throw in a line break, 4 tackle breaks and 38 tackles, baby you got a stew goin’.

Both Peni and Manu started the game relatively poorly (Manu will a couple of errors, Peni with a lack of aggression), but that second Eels try, thy name is ‘redemption’. Not only was it set up and scored by the aforementioned pair, it was made possible by Gennings knocking Peta Hiku into touch, the very same thing he should have done to prevent Hiku’s try in the first half.

Interchange

14- Will Smith

Interchange, Parramatta Eels

I’ve frequently been a big fan of Cameron King, but even I thought we looked better tonight when Smith was on the park. William got through 5 runs for 47 running metres, 26 tackles and only 1 miss.

Will’s pass into Isaac Luke was cheeky to say the least, and that is the first time I can remember Parra ever taking advantage of this odd little ruck rule.

Not bad, Will.

 

15- Suaia Matagi

Interchange, Parramatta Eels

Hate on him if you want, but Suaia ran 15 times for 148 metres off the bench – that’s good eating from the man they (well, me) call The Bear.

Unfortunately for his band of faithful followers, Matagi only seems to put in an above average performance on a semi-regular basis. I prefer to see him off the bench so let’s he and I agree on him giving us more of this, and I’ll make less inappropriate references about his worth as a lover.

16- David Gower

Interchange, Parramatta Eels

With all due respect to the good doctor, when David Gower is one of your more dangerous hole runners, you either have a horrendous injury toll, or the need for a dramatic roster revamp. The Eels have both.

A quietly monster game from David, with 14 runs, 135 metres, 2 tackle breaks and 25 tackles without a miss. With so many experienced players’ talents falling off a cliff this season, it’s nice to see Gowie’s form stay so lush and evergreen.

 

17- Marata Niukore

Interchange, Parramatta Eels

After many, many days petitioning for his release, it was good to see the young bloke finally run onto the park in his 1st NRL game. His 4 runs for 38 metres (and a tackle break) is a good opening hit out, too. However, I can’t help feel a little sorry for Marata, knowing that his first foray into first grade was often such a rubbish team performance. I suspect he’ll remember that game like a bad, first kiss; on one hand it was exciting and new, but on the other hand it was equal measures awkward, unfamiliar and sloppy.

 

We still sit in 16th on the ladder, and next week we’re off to see the wizard Suncorp Stadium. Prepare thyself.

See you then, sports fans.

 

Thanks for reading, and it’s definitely ‘laurel’.

 

Go you Eels,

Mitch.

 

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99 thoughts on “Post Game Grades – Round 11 vs Warriors

  1. Gem KM

    I’m just sadly used to this numb feeling. I love Gowie and I’m growing tired of Corey looking like he doesn’t know what the hell to do.

    1. The Crow

      I love Gowie too. He footwork at the line is very deceptive. I’d keep him. As for some of the others tonight….

  2. Offside

    Well it was more if the same from this bunch. More of the same from the super coach and at his press conference still not showingany signs of accountability.
    Im flat out at a loss about where to next i guess we try to avoid the spoon but i fail to see how thats possible we don’t look likely to win at all.

    The one up side is after doing the 4hour round trip from the coast every week for the last 4 weeks straight i decided to give up my membership after 10years of going up and down the freeway and just stayed home and watched it on tv I’ve always said if i can go to a game the ill go but after last week i simply didn’t want to go anymore so i handed my season tickets to a family member and it still hurt loosing but not nearly as much as before as emotionally I’m just not invested anymore.

    1. mitch Post author

      I was very surprised just how good his stats were, as he did have quite a few across field runs (one of which leading to Manu’s try, of course). Outstanding game from The Butcher.

  3. Salty Pete

    Wow. That first half was horrendous. No chance building any sort of pressure or platform. Problem for Moses is that with lack of possession and completions, he doesn’t have the luxury of mixing up his game – passing, taking on the line, just getting tackled, etc. It has come to the time where continual mistakes by the same players can’t be tolerated. It’s killing the team. Some players – not many – have to be dropped. The team needs a reset. Not a drastic one, but something needs to give. As awful as it sounds, the season is gone. Time to focus on next year and start shaping another team.

      1. Salty Pete

        Mitch, I’d move Gutho to 5/8, bring up Josh Hoffman, relegate Norman to either the bench or ISP, and/or bring Salmon to the bench. I’m not suggesting anything drastic but something has to happen around the playmaking department. I think Moses has been working hard.

        1. mitch Post author

          I don’t mind the Norman in ISP idea at all, but I’d probably just shift Smith to 6 (or Taka) and bring Salmon in on the bench as you suggested. Minimise the disruption as much as possible.

          With that said, Kingy didn’t seem to get much time, so I wonder if we’ll see his name Tuesday.

          1. The Captain

            If Norman doesn’t get dropped after that performance he’ll never be dropped. Time to give Norman a spell in reserve grade and give Moses a crack at the dominant half role.

            We have the rest of this season to try to fix some issues for next season, the time to start trying them is now.

  4. Shelley

    I have criticised them often so praise I will tonight. Well done to our forwards. This is not our best forward pack and not the one I want going into the end of the year and certainly not next year but every single one tried their guts out. They took on a big pack and held their own. Apart from Manu they did not threaten the Warriors but they showed passion and commitment. They gave our backs a chance to win it, they simply could not.

    Sorry but I really think Michael Jennings was dreadful. Normally so reliable in defense but not tonight. I kept begging him during the game please pass the ball to your unmarked brother outside you. He bombed at least 2 simple tries in the first half by not even looking like passing the ball. Blind Freddy can see the step back on the inside every single time fools no one in the crowd and certainly not well trained professional first grade players and it is actually becoming infuriating for the fans or at least the fans around me. All I will say on his refusal to pass outside is that there is a reason Semi started scoring again last year when Taka went back to partner him, because he actually got the ball.

    Norman played in a dinner suit tonight. I normally am a fierce defender of his but I can’t tonight. Effort, commitment and desire are non negotiables for me and everything about his game showed very little of that. I give everyone chances and I hope just like some forwards who proved me wrong tonight and showed me they really care Norman wants to do the same next week. I really really want and the team needs him to be that cheeky, arrogant, confident playmaker again. Personally if Hayne is back next week I would put Taka into the pack, to give some offloading threat and Hayne outside Norman. I think this could spark Norman. I guess it all depends on Norman and how badly he wants it to work.

    1. mitch Post author

      Either way, results like this really highlight the competitors from the sooks. Mitch Moses has constantly been labelled a sook, but I don’t see him giving up at all. His halves partner on the other hand looks like he’s just waiting for his shift to end.

      1. The Captain

        The Moses experiment is far from over, I still see him as the long term future half for the Eels. He’s got work to do but he’s shown a lot of heart and passion and definitely has the talent as long as it can be matured and refined.

        The Norman experiment, on the other hand, I’m about 2 seconds away from calling that “done and dusted”. He hasn’t matured, his game hasn’t really grown, his passion seems like warm at best and he still feels like he’s always going to be a bit of a liability off the field.

        Gutho and Moses are a passionate and talented part of our spine – the other half of the spine feels up-for-grabs still. I don’t think Kaysa or Norman are the answers.

        1. Colin Hussey

          Cap, there is no way that the Moses and Norms combo is working now and the reality is it is failed. Thing is what to do with them.

          Certainly if one is to go then it would have to be Norms, meaning MM at 7 and Salmon to 6, sooner the better.

          I will stick by my view re Kaysa, we miss his enthusiasm and energy, also missing Timmy and Brown, I stick also to my view is for Mahoney and Kaysa to battle for the 9 spot whoever runs on, then the other one, on the bench.

    2. The rev aka Snedden

      Sorry Shelley but there is no way that you can partner Norman n Hayne in the halfs there both lazy n will only make the side go worse.

      1. Rowdy

        G’day Rev, I think you actually missed what Shelley was saying mate. She didn’t pair them together in the Halves, Shelley said put Hayne in Taka’s centre spot outside Norman mate. Prompting Taka’s move back into the backrow to create 2nd faze.

  5. Hearndo

    Absolutely gutted for Beau Scott. It looks like that was his last ever NRL game and to go out like that just isn’t fair. The way he pushed the trainers away to let him walk off the field by himself with a suspected ACL tear summerises the type of player he has been – a tough, relentless player. “How the hell does he play like that, throwing his body on the line every week and reach the amount of NRL games he has” – a remark my dad and I constantly exchange regarding Beau Scott. Although his performances this year have been below his previous standard, I believe Scott has brought so much to this football team since arriving. The renound aggression of the eels forward pack in 16 & 17 coincidently coincide with Beau Scott’s arrival to the B&G. A player who has 100% delivered on his paycheck, purely through hardwork.

    1. mitch Post author

      Despite my sentiments above reflecting mostly on his form this season, I completely agree Hearndo. He was a huge addition to our team.

  6. Trouser Eel

    David Gower is a class player. I can’t remember a time that I’ve been disappointed with his effort. He was my MVP tonight.
    In a night where we seemed to drop the ball at will (and there’s an intentional dark undertone in that statement) Peni’s grasp on the ball was one for the books.
    Thanks again Mitch for your continued efforts in bringing these grades out. They truly are a beacon of good humour & intelligent comment about our team, who would otherwise only have sad & disappointing things said about them.

    1. Chief man

      Every side needs onr player like David Gower. Although he’s almost at retirement he still goes ok.

      The problem with Parramatta is that we have 6 David Gowers all in semi retirement

    2. mitch Post author

      Agreed mate, Gower was outstanding this evening. Thanks for your kind words too, mate; appreciate you reading.

  7. Yaya

    I can’t tell if your statement about Norman’s effort on fusitua is sarcastic ? He was dreadful all night. That particular tackle even the commentators pointed out he had time to do more than a little half shove. He looks uninterested which is what kills me most when players like Gower and Mau are out there busting gut. No doubt in my mind if he actually used his brain and had a dig we would’ve won that game. Never known a half in first grade nrl to catch a ball and look so lost all to just run in a circle or throw stand still dummy’s. If I’m BA I’m giving him the hook next week and running will smith at 5/8 to send a message.

    1. mitch Post author

      Admittedly I just knew he was there and it was close. If it looked half assed on TV, it fits in better with his body of work for the rest of the night. Consider it sarcastic.

  8. Chief man

    Can we please have rating on what Brad Arthur has achieved in his five year tenure.

    I’ll rank it from most important to least

    Recruitment D
    Too many older experienced forwards who are all getting towards the end. Gutherson Brown and Moses have done well but Brown is the only decent forward ba has purchased in 5 years

    .

    Retention D

    Lost Paulo and now wants him back. Matto Aloia & Twal would have been handy. Semi should have been retained long before the Rugby came knocking.

    Development F

    Alvaro was the last forward debutant (2015) before tonight. French (2016) the last back

    On field structure ability C

    Arthur has done well in previous years without the cattle we needed.

    Culture F

    One of the highest incident rates per club. This club certainly hasn’t adhered to the no dickheads policy.
    What do the club do – sign another two bad boys in Meehan & Tamata

    Overall D

    1. Trouser Eel

      Hey chief, thanks for your post. I don’t need to read them, I just see your name and assume all the little words under it are a criticism of the coach. It saves me time and reminds me why I don’t go to one eyed eel anymore.

      1. Ray

        You’re totally correct Trouser, you only have to read one of Choofy’s posts & you’ve read them all.

        1. Offside

          Chief has every right to his opinion why is it so hard to except that BA needs to held accountable and that finishing 4th last years means nothing this year

          1. Rowdy

            How about some responses to Chiefy’s dribble.
            BA’s previous 4 years? Better than anyone else who’s coached the side long enough to get his own roster.
            Recruitment D? When BA arrived, a) we had no tough experienced forwards left to teach the young blokes how to win tough! b) BA had lost Hindy and had to let Fui go to reserve grade so he could give 2 young local juniors Jnr Paulo and Pauli Poorly a go in first grade. Result? 1 good’un and 1 not so good’ who actually played some very good impressive games until he was found out by opposing forwards. Manu Mau was also elevated from Wenty permanently & under BA’s tutelage has become another outstanding success along with Gutho. Retention? We lost Junior because of the amount of money he was offered by Canberra during a time when it was becoming apparent we could have the likes of Watmough who was great for us and Foran who was great for Keiran only but still taught these young fellas how to play tough and busted just like Watmough!
            Finally, Chief, your constant negative dribble is also incorrect dribble about what our coach has achieved and hopefully he will again achieve when he leads us/ our team out of the current fall.

  9. June

    I think you were a little kind on Norman, he looks disinterested most of the time, I’d have given him a F. He’s been with us a while now and the amount of average games he’s had far outweighs the good ones. I thought the forewards aimed up last night. I know it was 6pm Friday but it gets very cold and lonely st ANZ with such a small crowd. ANZ has no soul.

    1. mitch Post author

      Yeah I’m getting that vibe from a few of the comments. I think his running game still made 94 metres, so I can’t see everything he did was poor. I (and a number of others it seems) can see what you mean though.

  10. Chris

    I have long defended Norman but he lost me for good last night. Not too many people left in that boat now. We should try to get what we can for him, a swap with someone from the Bulldogs, Titans or Canberra because his trade value is decreasing every week.

    Moses isn’t getting anywhere near enough ball. BA has obviously instructed Corey to run the team and be the dominate half. This decision needs to be reversed. Moses always has a go and while you are doing that, things might just turn. I cant say that about Norman anymore. Our halves are now stuck on the left and right which is the opposite of how we were successful last year.

    We can’t afford to carry Bevan any longer. Unless he is doing summersaults, he is ineffective and offers a struggling team very little. Hopefully Hayne can replace him next week. I like the kid but we can’t afford luxuries at the moment. I don’t understand why he doesn’t ‘scoot’ more out of dummy half. He is meant to be quick so push King out of the way, get in behind the markers and have a go. Your grade was very very generous Mitch. He had an F against Canberra and a D- last night.

  11. Emtee

    Personally think that rating flattered our 5/8. Play seemed to stop when he got the ball. Took wrong options. Failed to find touch from a penalty. Inneffrctive grubber leading to a penalty for tackling the player off the ball. Its not a good look after his social media video last weekend when the players were hurting. Im not saying it had anything to do with his performance, but I could forgive anyone thinking he is phoning it in when they see him out having a good time followed by that performance.

    1. mitch Post author

      Yeah, I just gave him a D- (only one from the lowest mark of F) because of his running metres. Nonetheless, I could barely agree with this comment any more. Well said.

      1. Emtee

        If BA really wants to send a message to the playing group, I would honestly tell Corey to introduce himself to Caylo for a couple of weeks. Use Smith, Salmon or Taka at 6. Show that no matter who you are, the team comes first and if you aren’t performing, we will find someone who will

        1. mitch Post author

          I agree mate. My only concern is that our injury crisis won’t allow us to drop anyone (I assume Salmon and Stone are only eligible to play if actual Top 30 players are injured).

          To completely contradict myself, they were named in the 21 ahead of Nathan Davis, so the sentence above could be off the mark.

          1. Salty Pete

            Mitch, I watched Wenty today. Salmon’s defense was first class, saved a certain try with a copy book tackle. His time is coming soon. BA must be thinking this too by naming him on the extended bench.

          2. Emtee

            The other option is to put Taka at 6 for a couple of weeks, and play either Kirisome or Davis in the centres

          3. Offside

            Id go with that i mean in fairness we dont have much of a chance of beating the Broncos with him do might aswell send him a message wont happen BA doesn’t drop his favorites

          4. mitch Post author

            Yeah I admit I didn’t see today, but did watch with interest last week. Thought he looked very good last week (admittedly against pretty soft opposition), but he did have defensive lapses. Good to hear these were addressed to some extent this week.

            If the NRL allows him to play and Norman to be dropped, what have we got to lose?

    1. mitch Post author

      That’s strange thing to say seeing your first two comments are still up. It’s just a repeating the same comment over and over free zone.

      We get it, you think BA has failed at recruitment and our forward pack is too old, that’s fine; but no one wants to read the same comment in the same post again and again.

      1. Chief man

        Miatch, the posts on here are repetitive too –
        Players undisciplined
        Players not taking training to the game
        BA made the top four and has brought this club through hell

        What’ new ?

        1. Salty Pete

          Chief Man, you’re on the wrong site. This is about constructive criticisms and positive actions, not your continual negativity with no solutions.

    2. Lady Eel

      Putting out the bait and waiting for the bites! It’s very boring and goes nowhere towards any constructive criticism or intelligent discussion or debate. This season is not going well sure, but hanging the coach ôut to dry is not the solution. We have been through the revolving door of coaches era thank you.

  12. Colin Hussey

    Something in me last night had me not even thinking of even listening to the match on the radio call. I tipped an 8 point win for the eels but, as I am having a bummer of a year in the tipping arena I just remain an eels supporter but I think I need to go to a shrink this week to get my marbles polished or replaced.

    I am happy that Marata got a run and at least did some good but seems he played a bit better than some of the higher paid and regular squad.

    I know my loyalty is still there but I am really believing that some serious mid term changes have to happen. Norms needs time back at ISP, he may then want to leave – Bye Bye. Bev needs some sort of an injection to get him back to looking for the ball and show us what he really has. I would have Dane Akafolou up in his place.

    Beau whether its season ending or not injury, seriously he should really look at retirement and go out with dignity, It will open up a place for another player, import or elevation,

    Import, the club needs to hit Canterbury up for Klemmer and do so quickly make him an offer that shows the club wants him and while he says he wants to stay at the dogs, he could come to the club and be a huge fan favourite, If not him Napa. I would also look at getting Farah for the rest of the year.

    Small changes but strategic ones. One other thing that the club needs to eat humble pie on is to perhaps approach Luke Burt and have him back at the club as an assistant or development manager.

    1. Trouser Eel

      If you’re going to the shrink to get your marbles polished, you’re going to the wrong place. I normally have to pay for dinner and a movie for that kind of service.

      1. Colin Hussey

        I’m talking of different marbles to what your mind is perceiving. Not everything is rated in the same area as your mind sits.

    2. Milo

      Col,
      I am similar in thoughts mate and have been cranky as for a week or ten now.
      Its actually quite depressing tbh. Some people dont get it.
      Ive never played grade footy and only club; and wish I could have played reps as a kid etc like many. I can’t believe some of the perceived lack of efforts i saw last night and am not sure what to make of it. Our fwds did well as whole and know we were under strength but should have won.
      I do think we need to adjust the halves in some way; our no.6 should always be one of the best players on the field and isn’t living up to it; Moses has done ok for me and imo I’d prefer a younger half to give it a shot.
      I noticed 60’s mentioned W Smith but i am not sure if he is long term or a spare parts? I cannot question his commitment though.
      V sad for B Scott; a warrior of many yrs and was sad to see this.
      I am not one of the ones calling for BA head and think the footy dept need to provide some help. Good qualified help tbh; and i assume BA and the coaching staff have been busy or should be planning for the next few yrs and more.

      1. Colin Hussey

        Milo, While I am not in a position to speak based on seeing Friday nights game but have read enough to wade through the comments and form a personal opinion and what I believe is that some of the past rumours and subsequent denials must have some weight to them. What I am talking about is regarding one player in the team causing the problem. The more I see his play and hear about his play, there’s little doubt in my mind that he is on the field, taking up a spot, getting his pay, generally under false pretences.

        If he and any others want out, then let them out, if they want a release then open the door, and go. It may mean that we have to bring up and rely on more of the younger players to fit in, at least if we lose its because of lack of experience.

        I am of course talking of our #6, rather than the player we know he can and has been, he is now reminding me of Chris Sandow in his last outings with us and wanting things his way. Difference is its happening early in the season rather than later,

        Smith is fine off the bench to rest others. To me, I have said a player to chase is Farah, Souths will let him go and have indicated they will contribute to his contract if needed. He is playing ok, but in ISP, he and MM know each others play and they did well with Lebanon last year, I see him being a player that can help Kaysa and Mahoney, achieve their abilities. In fact I believe the eels miss 3 players, Brown, Mannah and Kaysa, each for different reasons, Kaysa for his energy and enthusiasm.

        We need to chase Napa or Klemmer, if possible for this season to replace Edwards, convincing Klemmer to come might be hard but once here he would add heaps to the team..

        What I would look at if we got Farah and norms went dozing elsewhere. I would put Farah to 6 and Salmon to the bench. MM stays at 7 and Kaysa at 9, Farah to be the primary playmaker WITH MM working with him.
        If Klemmer could come then that’s huge if not. Stone to come into the top side/bench. Beau to retire allowing Marata to develop into a NRL player. A year in positive transition,?????

        1. Milo

          Some good points there Col, as i watch Harry and Meghan tie the knot.
          If we got Farah he’d be hooker for me. I’d prefer to throw salmon in the spot than have Farah but i see your view.
          I just hope BA and coaches have or are planning as we speak. They say we are fighting each week and that’s right but we are also in need of fwds for the season next and imo a hooker. IMO we either throw Mahoney up there next season and give him a chance this yr or we clear decks with King and Pritchard and get someone else.

          1. Colin Hussey

            Milo, I guess unless we win next week against the horses, I thing its perhaps time to through caution to the wind in a bit. However, even with a win the team needs to be told to play things as they see it and take chances, cannot do any worse than we have been.

            That would mean some drastic changes in direction, and it will cost coin and paying overs, there’s been no news come out about the signing of Paulo or others for some time now, the last being Alvaro,Brown & Smith.

            Trouble with fighting each week as it is now, even with a team of fairly experienced players they are more akin to newbies out of school, and have not been up to the fight at least as far as seen in the results. Heavyweight boxers will always beat featherweights.

            My thinking with Farah is the experience and cunningness he brings to the team. But I don’t disagree with the idea of Salmon coming in early at 6. He reads the game well and moves quick. The only question is in regard to whether he can play the 80 in the top squad, but Norms hardly seems to doing that anyway.

            So without Farah, and if the players drop out which we might find out this week regarding Scott’s future, and if he retires, then we have 3 openings in the 30, to me they would Salmon, Mahoney and hopefully a quality Prop.

            I would keep Kaysa and have him and Mahoney interchange. in effect Mahoney takes the utility role in place of Smith. While I admit to King taking his chance last year with Kaysa’s injury, and had some good moments, he is below Kaysa as far as consistency is concerned and King would be the one to go with Kaysa and Mahoney contesting the 9 and bench spots.

            Going forward we need Jnr and one other, Klemmer of Napa. I believe we have enough in our system now to cover the rest of the team,

          2. John Eel

            Colin I am not sold on Napa. Whilst it is hard to argue that when he is playing SOO, I just think that he drifts in and out of games. Better judges than me are talking him up though.

            Klemmer is a long shot can’t see him leaving the Dogs but he really gets thru the work. I would settle for him. He has a big motor and plenty of aggression.

          3. Colin Hussey

            John, I agree with you up to a point with Napa, as he does drift in and out of a game, in SOO he is a mongrel, but in what I’ve seen of him this year he’s been pretty well consistent and playing good minutes and hard minutes, he’s probably on notice though from Robbo.

            What Klemmer is putting out it would be a hard call that he would come to the eels, I read this morning that the dogs have said they would not have to release any of their players, I think that’s likely blurb but I see it more likely that he would stay, but he would need some convincing to come here, especially as he was on the verge of signing straight from the juniors but the dogs got under the eels and signed him.

          4. John Eel

            I agree with your comments on Klemmer. However it is fanciful for the dogs to think that they will not have to release players.

            They will need to recruit to cover for injury and loss of form for a start. They have $500,000 to cover 5 positions that they need to fill on minimum contracts next season. They can’t do it. They will have to release players to get by. The other issue is that unless they release good players the new club will expect them to pay some of the freight.

            This is the same problem that we have in getting rid of Corey

  13. Realistic Eel

    Here’s my grading of our squad:
    Gutherson: Champion player just needs to work on his passing under pressure.
    French: Needs the ball in open space not in heavy traffic.
    M.Jennings: Time to retire.
    Takairangi: Clumsy player. Too slow for centre. Better off a a utility on the bench.
    G.Jennings: Tries hard but not a first grader.
    Norman: Very sad…..so much ability yet lazy, party boy, too casual, runs across field, gets on awful positions to get his kicks away, Auckland 9s specialist.
    Moses: Shows glimpses of being a decent 7 & looks dangerous when he straightens our attack. Question his temperament.
    Scott: Time to retire
    Mau: Flat track bully. Dumb decisions under pressure & tends to go missing.
    Tepai: Good player needs to hit holes instead of crashing through heavy traffic.
    Terepo: Too many errors, can’t afford to have a player like this making the same dumb errors every week despite how well he played last night.
    King: Steady but a back up at best.
    Alvaro: Good player but lacks size. More suited to 13.
    Smith: Good squad player
    Marata: Too early to judge. Looks to have good leg drive.
    Matagi: One good game every 5 weeks.
    Gower: Mr reliable would probably offer him a 1yr deal.
    Brown: Great player to build our pack around.
    Hayne: Says a lot about our culture that we sign a guy that walked out on us & hasn’t played a decent game in 4yrs.
    Kaysa: Worst hooker I’ve seen. Yes he’s aggressive & gives 100% but he has no vision, no kicking game & passing game is very ordinary.
    Mannah: Time to retire. If he went on the open market would be lucky to get an offer.
    Brad Arthur: Got to go! Our attack is so boring & predictable, same shape every week, no set plays around the ruck, forwards have not developed any skill with the ball. Coaches effort but that doesn’t get you far when your attack is eaten up easily by good defences. The loss of Semi has exposed lots of cracks. Not to mention the players he has let go Twal, Aloiaia, Kelepi, Matterson & Keppie. The emotion of 2016 has run dry.

    1. BDon

      Your comment on Marata. I thought last night he reminded me a bit of Taniela Lasalo, who Kearney tried to develop. He was a sound defender but I never saw a bloke get pushed backwards so much. Big difference was you could see Marata had some go forward/leg drive. Also liked the way he defused an Isaac Luke sledging session, assured and confident.

  14. The rev aka Snedden

    It’s yarrny Mitch god has spoken its both depends on your age group.

    Brother Mitch as you know I’m not one to hammer the coach.
    But what I will say some ppl will think I’m mad.
    I IMO n MO only I think it’s time we release brad n bring in Jason Taylor as head coach n Brian smith as coaching director. We have always been a very poor attacking unit n our defence is not much better.

    Look at brad in the press conference it’s the same old stuff like we had effet n energy. We just have to keep on improving. Like hello … how long do you need brad. This season is over with.

    Things must be bad if a 33 yr old player is best on field n what makes it worse his coming off the bench.

    Looking at the players we have we should be in the top 4 if not top 8.
    We can’t be blaming the players all the time. After all it’s brad who selects them n they go n do as he says.

    To be out of finals contention after just 10/11 rounds in is not good. Personally I can’t see we’re our next win is coming from.

    We lost to a under strength sharks. A out of sorts doggies. A warriors side coming of a 32 point hiding minus Johnson n RTS. We should have seen the signs in the semi last year to the storm.

    We had won every game after leading at HT. I think it’s time we had a new coach with fresh ideas leading into a new stadium.

    #Eels4life#

    1. sixties

      Rev, normally love your work but the Taylor and Smith combination would be a disaster. There is a reason why Taylor and clubs part ways and Smiths last 5 years at Parra were a disaster (2005 excepted) with a success rate of 45% and a dismantling of the rampant 2001 team in record breaking time.
      Brad is a loyal coach, but selecting a bloke in a key position like 5/8 who is a massive liability on current form is making a rod for his own back. It’s time to give Corey a rest.

      1. Shelley

        Sixties it has taken a while to come around to this view but even I can’t and won’t defend what I saw last night. The difference between Norman and Moses was so obvious- one cared and tried really hard, probably too hard and the other one was in uniform and on the field. We all know who was who and in all honesty so must the other players in our team. For me it is very disappointing to say but I know what I saw last night and I really disliked it.

      2. Tad

        I think Corey is playing to his potential and not a great deal more improvement with him..Maybe he would be helped with a more dominant pack.I think we have lost out a bit without Mannah. Disappointing thing for me is our persistence with one out plays against bigger forward packs. Once again very few offloads and very little with support. I noticed in the last couple of minutes we started to throw the ball around a lot and that was probably the most fluid part of the game for us.I would like to see alot more of that type of play now that we are in a position to take more risks. Amazed that we were in a genuine winning position considering how poorly we played.Has happened a few games now

        1. Colin Hussey

          So we have to wait for the last few minutes for him to wake up. I think the only wake up call that he needs is to go back to ISP or ask for a release. If he went back to Wenty what would that do to them?

        1. Colin Hussey

          Why just a week Mitch. He would more than likely know he will get a recall but that has to not happen and somehow or another we need a new player that can direct play and work with Moses. I believe offer Farah a shot for the rest of this year and option for next, he could help our current lot but I would also suggest that somehow we can get permission for Stone and Salmon to come up perhaps even Mahoney.

          If we are going to see the primary players that are not producing the goods, then I would rather seen young developing players lifted and even if we still lose some games at least we are blooding for the future.

      3. The rev aka Snedden

        Sixties my son I will have to agree on Norman. What i don’t get with him is why has he stopped going down that left edge with mua n takarangi. Something tells me his of to Canberra next year n only hanging around for the money. It’s time to bring in salmon.

        With the smith n Taylor combo it was just a thought because if you notice with Jason Taylor every team his been at they are free flowing of point in there favour.

        Maybe someone need to give brad some fresh ideas who knows but from what I see on tv what ever his trying its just not working and we can’t blame injuries that would be lame ….look at Penrith heaps of injuries yet sit in 2nd

      4. Gazzamatta

        Possibly swap Corey and Gutho might freshen him up 60s. Seems to have helped Morgan. Corey can be so good. Its very dissappointing.

      5. John Eel

        Smith’s time has gone. He had many years and good rosters without a GF win. That is not going to change now.

        1. Colin Hussey

          Totally agree John. Many may look back at the Smith years with envy, but in reality they were years that topped up our 80’s when we won premierships, & each one was a continuation of a RL utopia for the eels.

          Yet, with the players we had and even his smarts, the only thing that he brought to the club, was consistency and no more trophies, his final couple of years culminating in his resigning was not going to take us forward. The dumb coaching appointments that caused issues also need to be put in the vault, and locked up forever, never forget the titans? I can.

          Whether we realise it or not, especially some out there BA has brought us further than they care to realise or accept. While I am not sure about playing in the end of the years matches I am sure that with some key and strategic signings that the successes of last few years under the cloud of uncertainty as it was, will be seen as our launching pad.

      6. Poppa

        I think you are looking at Norman wrongly…the problem is his style of play not being complimentary to Moses, maybe no ones fault as much as different styles not working….a way to explain this is Moses is a playmaker and Norms a playtaker (short kicking aside, Norms leads stats for the comp on forced line drops).
        It seems to me the judgements of his not trying are harsh, I watched the game and saw no lack of effort only ability to create vision in the upcoming plays.
        I would move him to centre and let Salmon play as a direct 5/8 come half, something Norms is not. This means moving Taka back to the bench so be it. Hayne will come in for GJennings and we will have a different backline with Norms out wider with a bit more room. Not much more we can do for the forwards but supporting each other would be a good start.
        Our line defence is also ordinary and the talk of Farah has been coming from my lips since the beginning when it was obvious he wasn’t going to see time with Souths. You will be amazed what a forward organiser like Farah will do for that goal line defence.
        Now if I can see this, the question has to be asked….why can’t the coaching staff…..they are like deer’s in the headlights as well.
        PS. Cowboys have exactly the same malady!
        It is all about playing with confidence, I was horrified by that start last Friday and my way of thinking is blow them of the park early, then you don’t have to worry about taking the gas later! We started like the nursing home group does on Melbourne Cup day with a 9.30 start…..all wind and no piiss.

        1. Tad

          Hi Poppa what do you and others think about how we played in the last minute of so when we threw the ball around all over the place –must have touches at least 7 different hands in a one tackle segment– We rarely see that type of flow..I thought it worked really well and would like to see that type of play more often rather than the one out stuff without an offload. Norman to centre? Norman to fullback?

          1. Poppa

            Its all about risk management Tad, every side in the comp plays that way when their 10 down and 5 minutes to play.
            It is a game about discipline and making less errors, if you can drop the discipline and drop the error rate, you will get the answer you are looking for.
            Unfortunately that usually only works when you are desperate at the end of a game.
            Emphasises again the need to play with confidence and belief in yourselves…..easier said than done.

          2. Tad

            Thats what maybe the problem Poppa–when you tighten up you get get too cautious about making errors and the focus changes to a style with less confidence and flow. When you have a nothing to lose attitude sometimes the creative talents emerge. A balance between high risk and creative flair

  15. West Coast Eel

    Really disappointed in Norman at the moment. Sure Moses wasn’t great, but he’s having a dig. Thoughts on Hayne or French at fullback next week, Gutherson to 6. Norman to Wenty. I can’t see Norman being at Parra for much longer.

    1. sixties

      I think I’d be tempted to run Smith at 5/8. Hayne still isn’t ready and when he is, I doubt he could immediately handle fullback.

        1. Poppa

          Hayne is not a centre, Salmon is the obvious 5/8 if we are preparing this side for next year. Taka goes to the bench for mine and the centre spot can be worked between Guth and Norman. As stated elsewhere I would prefer to see Norms given a chance in centres.
          He is down in confidence, I reckon his effort is better than suggested.

      1. West Coast Eel

        I like smith on the bench. Not sure how he’d go a 5/8. I don’t think king is an 80 min hooker. Agree on hayne. He’s probably not fit enough for fullback. Man, I just want things to turn. A few wins would be nice. I’m sick of the sleepless nights after a loss!

      2. John Eel

        I guess that you never know what is going on behind closed doors but they are still to sign the 30th player yet. Given that we need to sign someone by June 30 they could do worse than upgrade Salmon’s contract

  16. Anonymous

    I think that play by Will’s a disgrace. I hate it when other clubs do it. That’s a Cronk special and not at all in the spirit of the game. It needs to be discouraged if not banned.

    1. Chris

      The Milford one was worse. If it didn’t hit the rooster the pass would have ended up in the stands !! The bloke wasn’t even in the ruck.

    2. mitch Post author

      I rate it with the “hold the ball in the scrum” play, hate it when it’s done against us, would be happy for the rule to change, but whilst the rules are as they are, more than happy to get a penalty for it.

      We’re not really in a position to take the high ground here, gotta take what we can get.

      1. Colin Hussey

        Not related to last nights game but this has been put up on the eels webb site

        parraeels.com.au Timestamp Sat 19 May 2018, 02:59 PM
        The Parramatta Eels Club today issued a statement on behalf of Bernie Gurr:

        ” Today Kenny Edwards, through his management company, requested a release from his NRL Playing Contract with Parramatta National Rugby League Club Pty Limited. This release was granted by the Club effective immediately.

        We thank Kenny for his on field contribution during his time with our Club and we wish Kenny and his family all the very best in the future.”

        Bernie Gurr
        Chief Executive Officer

        A sad news release but I guess its better than being sacked. I hope that Kenny gets himself sorted out very soon and is not lost to the game, I feel for his family and for Kenny himself.

        Hate to say it owing to this development but we now have another space for a player to be lifted from the Juniors.

        1. Tad

          Hi Colin I am not quite sure how this site works –maybe you can help me out. Is there a process where you get automatic feed back from posts made..Does that have something to do with Word Press what ever it is–excuse my ignorance

          1. Colin Hussey

            Tad

            I think this latest blog site that is used is not as good as the old one, as I have issues loading posts by Mitch such as this one using Internet Explorer as it does not load the details re the players and the ratings, also the replies are mixed with some going into the junk folder and others into the normal inbox, neither of those things happened in the past.

            Anyway to answer your question, underneath the main section that comprises the post there is the box where you add comments in the join the discussion. to the left of that there is another bit that has Subscribe and a small downward pointing arrow. Simply go in there and enter your EMAIL Address

          2. Tad

            Hi Colin I just noticed Norman is playng FB this week some of us have been talking about this for a few weeks now–Interesting to see how it works out

  17. JonBoy

    I can’t agree enough about the calls for Corey to go and find himself in the ISP for a week or two. Maybe there is some substance behind the earlier rumours about Canberra and this is his way of getting out of the last year of his contract…makes it much easier to say goodbye?

    I lost count of the times I threw my hands in the air last night screaming at our lack of support play. There was soooo many missed opportunities for offloads with half breaks being made but NO ONE in support.

    I think Bevan has lost interest too. Very ordinary performances of late and it hurts me to say that unless he is in a race for the ball or open space he doesn’t seem to have much else on offer.

    I’m really upset about Beau Scott bowing out like he has because I think he has really done a lot of good things for us while here.

    1. The rev aka Snedden

      I agree about beau his done very well wile at parra.
      On bevan as far as I know his playing injured. What you have to understand with French his our josh addo-car as semi was our vanivuli n by not having semi French has had no room to move our halfs are not running to or thru the line n our pack is being bashed up week after week.

  18. Rowdy

    Great grades Mitch.
    I don’t see much humor in there though (unlike your clandestine lovers comments) Separating Peni and Manu for MVP must have been a trial?
    All the comments supporting your Norman D- grade speak for themselves and I have been Corey fan since he came to the club. I don’t believe anyone in the top 17 would be the answer at 5/8 without weakening another position though. Therefore I would have to proffer the suggestion I heard from Parrathruanthru yesterday as we braved the elements at Leichhardt. If Hayne is available? Play him outside Mitch! I would support that only if Mitch was given sole playmaking responsibility by playing Hayne as a running 5/8 not another playmeker who would over-call MM and create the same problem we have at the moment with Corey there.

    1. Poppa

      Hayne has never been a 5/8 even at the peak of his career, he is too lazy and would never work enough. At present he is soley a winger and if he ever regains full match fitness then fullback.
      This romance with Hayne in the halves is just that!

      1. Chris

        I agree. Hayne is a winger these days and nothing wrong with that. He will swap with the centre on occassion as he did when he threw the last pass for the try when he injured himself. He should have a roaming commission.

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