In the days leading up to last weekend there were many words spoken.
There were the reports of Dylan Brown apparently making himself available to the biggest offer.
Then there was the backlash from supporters taking the reports at face value, accusing the young man of arrogance and a lack of loyalty.
Of course, when words are written in this great game of ours, the intent is always a reaction.
Mission accomplished. Welcome to the NRL Dylan.
Watching the game on Sunday, the phrase that kept popping into my head was actions really do speak louder than words.
From the stands I saw no arrogance, greed or selfishness from Dylan.
Dylan Brown
Instead I saw a young man who set up teammates, pushed himself to make cover tackles, showed composure beyond his years and kept fronting up to make his tackles every time the play and a big forward was directed his way.
Just as importantly I saw teammates who showed real emotion and excitement when he scored his first try in the top grade. I may be wrong but I will trust the reactions from teammates as being the true testament to the character of our young half over that of journalists who create, not simply cover stories.
We have heard all summer about the strong bonds forged by our team, the building of relationships. On Sunday I saw these words acted out so many times.
When Gutherson went down injured teammates came over to see if he was okay. When a kick was put in behind our line, multiple players converged trying to defuse it. Even with the Bulldogs first try, Dylan Brown was there trying to help Gutherson clean it up, just as Ferguson was there earlier in the game.
How sweet it is!
From the stands our support for each other was fantastic and constant. What a difference an off season can make.
The comparison between us and the Bulldogs on Sunday was stark. The Dogs reminded me so much of us last year; a team full of individuals trying really hard but at times working against one another.
From the stands it is apparent that our team is back together and the crowd responded in fine form. It was so wonderful to hear an authentic Parra chant at the footy again, especially against the Bulldogs.
This week presents another challenge.
As a fan I dread the Roosters game each year as we always seem to be on the end of a belting. But I have renewed hope with this team.
The Roosters are incredibly well coached and drilled, with some outstanding naturally gifted players. They will be hard to beat. However, I believe that our team will turn up with the right attitude and composure.
From the stands this game will show us how far we have come from the depths of last year and give us a clear indication as to what we need to improve, because whatever weaknesses are there the Roosters, and Cooper Cronk in particular, will find them.
I know our forwards will stand up and show the right balance between brute hard work and skill. I want our backs to once again show composure and chance their arm when the play is on.
Ultimately I have faith the boys will turn up this week and have a real go with a clear and well defined game plan. At this point of the year that will suffice, although a win is not out of the question at all.
This new, or should I revisited and improved attitude, has the potential to take this team far in the coming years. The talent is there and the teamwork will only improve as the year progresses.
But of course, actions will ultimately speak louder than words.
Shelley
Great summation Shelley. I too dread this game especially of recent times. You are right in saying we seem to get a drubbing against the Roosters.
This week is a great litmus test for Parra and for the likes of Dylan Brown and Mitchell Moses. If our forwards hold the Roosters then it will be up to these young guys to spearhead our attack against arguably the best half combination in the game.
Too play the Roosters early in the year is a blessing in disguise cause we can see where we are at and if necessary, have the time to improve on any issues that may surface.
Regards,
Eel Nut
I’ll echo your sentiments Eel Nut. I reckon the fellas are to it too!
It is will be interesting to watch. Good players always appear to have more time, the game almost slows down for them. Dylan Brown seems to be like that. He will have some inconsistency but I feel the other experienced players know this and will pick him up. It is exciting to have a young playmaker come through.
It’s interesting that you say that about Brown Anon. We were discussing the same thing at training today.
What a wonderful perspective Shelley, and an equally enjoyable read. No BS just the simple truth as seen “from the stands” by a genuine Eels fan.
I liked your analysis of the scorn thrown at Dylan Brown when compared with the reality of a very young man bursting with enthusiasm in how he plays the game and how he is received by his peers.
I hope you have many more enjoyable drives home from Parramatta games this year with family and friends Shelley. I have a biased instinct that tells me your/our team is about to reward you for your loyalty and passion.
Thank you. My family and I watch rain, hail or shine, coming first or last. The drive home is more enjoyable after a win. On Friday as long as they have a dig and play with some composure I will be happy.
I think we all feel similarly Shelley
Unfortunately, or fortunately from my perspective I have to break ranks here. As long as we start well as we had in the trials and again against Penrith? Then I believe we will be too strong through the middle for the Chooks and will run away with the game in the second half.
I’ve made Parra favourites with Beat Easy, having backed them off scratch yesterday and again today. Then was unable to stop my urge to exploit what I saw as money for jam by having another $5 bet. This time I took Parra 13+.