The Cumberland Throw

Post Game Grades – Round 22 vs Rabbitohs

 

Parramatta Eels 0

Souths 26

I was lucky enough to watch this game from the Legends Lounge, where it was chicken wing night. Four different styles of wings, sensational stuff. Unfortunately it was also “flog off your lounge tickets to whoever will go” night (as evidenced by my presence) and there were an awful lot of Rabbitohs fans getting a free ride and I’ve apparently got a head that screams “I’d love to engage with opposition fans while my team is playing like crap”. I would not love that.

Another Rabbitohs match, another gutless capitulation by Parramatta that you could tell was on the cards from the third minute of the game. At this point you just have to hope that whatever mental malaise Parramatta suffers in regular season games (regardless of their importance) will magically disappear in finals footy. That’s if they even make it that far.

I’ve left writing this for two days and I still have nothing to say about that performance. Like watching a bad kids movie for the sixth time I know the plot off by heart but I still lose a piece of my soul every time it comes back on the TV. 

For the numbers inclined:

Run metres: Rabbitohs 2,270, Eels 1,827
Line breaks: Rabbitohs 8, Eels 2
Tackle breaks: Rabbitohs 32, Eels 15
Tackles made: Eels 399, Rabbitohs 340
Errors: Eels 13, Rabbitohs 11


I’d hate to have seen what the score would be without Clint Gutherson, so he can add another “MVP in a disgusting loss” to his resume. You da MVP, Clint.

 

 

 

 

Clint Gutherson

1 – Fullback

I’ll be honest, I don’t remember a lot of this game and I’d sooner re-live that Bulldogs semi as Paul Carige than watch it again. This is mostly going to be rants about what annoys me from all of these players. For what it’s worth, I didn’t think Clint Gutherson was too bad.


 

Maika Sivo

2 – Left Wing

Sivo has made a solid recovery from his ACL tear, better than I’d expected or hoped. In games like this though, he’s terribly ineffective. For a man who steals souls with fends he doesn’t add a lot of X-factor to a team, his moments come as a finisher, not a game changer.


 

Will Penisini

3 – Right Centre

Earlier in the year I called Penisini the player everybody thinks Joseph Suaalii is. As a married man I’m used to being wrong, but takes like that one could book me a spot on NRL 360 if I wouldn’t melt in shame if ever in the same room as Paul Kent.


 

Tom Opacic

4 – Left Centre

I’m not even going back and watching the highlights for this, which leaves me very little to say about Tom Opacic.


 

Waqa Blake

5 – Right Wing

I’m sure glad Penrith are still paying a chunk of his salary, because seeing Waqa Blake in the top 100 paid players in the NRL is like when your mate sneaks into the corporate at Randwick and gets in the celebration photo with Lonhro’s owners.


 

Dylan Brown

6 – Five Eighth

I heard somebody say this week that you can tell if Dylan is on by his first touch. On that grade, I should have just walked out when he dropped that ball. 


 

Jake Arthur

7 – Halfback

It’s hard for a halfback when the platform laid by his middles is so shaky, and Jake Arthur is not experienced enough to turn that around.


 

RCG

8 – Front Row

If anybody was going to take the recent Rabbitohs dominance of the Eels forwards personal, it was RCG. Instead he had one of his least effective running games for the season, which wasn’t made up for by throwing a few offloads. He also managed to miss four tackles. 


 

Reed Mahoney

9 – Hooker

Maybe I’m just blaming the guy who’s leaving because I’m stuck with the rest of this mob, but Reed sucks this year. His service compared to Damien Cook gave a crystal clear representation of the difference between the two sides, and huge tackle counts don’t make up for putting our forwards at a disadvantage with slow passing. If I got a dollar every time he’s dropped a ball trying to pick up kicks I could afford to pay his ridiculous Bulldogs contract.  


 

Junior Paulo

10 – Front Row

Junior and RCG had to do a lot more defence than we are used to, but when you have 1.5 million bucks locked up in front rowers you expect them to lead the team in games like this, where a lot of the issues have started with a poor middle platform. Instead we got whatever that was.


 

Shaun Lane

11 – Second Row

Lane’s numbers were again sensational, and his emergence as a representative quality back rower is one of the highlights in this otherwise lousy season.


 

Isaiah Papali’i

12 – Second Row

If this is how he plays without Mitch Moses then Tigers fans shouldn’t be so fired up about his potential backflip.


 

Ryan Matterson

13 – Lock

Well that run of six weeks where he was the best forward in the game was fun while it lasted.


 

Ofahiki Ogden

14 – Interchange

This F is as much for Brad Arthur, who left Ogden on the bench until the final eight minutes despite an impact prop being the kind of player who could have made a difference in that first half. Why bother naming him if this was how you were going to use him? It’s not like we were in a tight contest and it just wasn’t the time to blood the guy, we were getting belted. In saying that, he had nearly as many missed and ineffective tackles (3) as makes (4), and that’s as a fresh man in the closing stages.


 

Bryce Cartwright

15 – Interchange

We saw more of the Carty Party than expected, and while he didn’t exactly spark an Eels revival, he was okay.


 

Oregon Kaufusi

16 – Interchange

This might have been the best game from the bench all year, if only because the starters were such a trash fire. Still, we got beaten to nil so there is only so much credit I’m giving here.


 

Marata Niukore

17 – Interchange

I promised some of my short fiction when I can’t think of anything to write in grades, so here it is: “Parramatta is a worthy premiership contender this season.”


Whatever.

Until next time, stay slippery Eels fans.

Gol

Stats and images provided by NRL

If you liked this article, you might consider supporting The Cumberland Throw.

74 thoughts on “Post Game Grades – Round 22 vs Rabbitohs

  1. Poppa

    Hardly fair that you gave Ogden an F when he was on for only eight minutes and his colleagues were disgraceful. I am surprised you found time to watch him and seeing he was the only F in a total team failure I have to also give you an F on your grades.

    1. Poppa

      Giving Junior a D was very generous and if ever a player needed to be made an example of it was him on Friday night….I would drop him from the bench and do something about his fitness. None of the other highly paid props in the competition seem to have the inconsistancy that Junior is now delivering (and yes I am a fan of his).

  2. Chef

    Ok how can Jake be our first chosen back up half or 5/8;when he is very slow and not athletic in how a 7 needs to be ?

    Also ogden a F. BA spoke about the lack of intensity from the 1st minute yet didn’t give ogden a chance to replace whoever wasn’t putting the effort that was needed in.

  3. BDon

    Tks Gol, just for showing up. Yeah, Lane and Gutho looked passable. I’d give Penisini some slack, if Suaalii was in this team he’d be just as confused. You could see the 3 wide defenders on the right looking to work in unison, no jamming, but it was like this focus caused other problems, indecision, do nothing and back pedalling waiting for Souths’ signature money ball. We run out of numbers far too easily, I watched Storm, Roosters and Sharks, they all looked like they had 15 on the field when defending in red zone. Effort, attitude, accountability.

  4. Offside

    Sooner this dumbstruck fire of a season is done with the better.

    One good thing about all those players leaving is we are not going to be loosing any premiership winning players.

    I know that everytime I say sack BA here I get the thumbs down and a lecture from sixties but it’s time for a overhaul of this whole team and that starts with BA this is his strongest squad of his 9 years and they have gone backwards and could well miss the 8.

    I gave away my season tickets after 20 years the other week and Friday I was at home and I turned off the TV and took the dog for a walk no more 90mins driving home dissecting the game the eels and BA have broken me unfortunately they have broken my 7 year old who asked me if he can support another team I said maybe
    I bought him a Liverpool jersey just in case

    1. sixties

      Don’t bring me into this Offside. Yeah, I back the coach and I give my reasons for that or on any occasions I disagree with you, That as valid as critics giving reasons for having shots at him.I hardly lecture you. Anyway, there’s no shortage of replies criticising him here despite some claiming that we delete that stuff. We only delete name calling and/or abusive garbage. People that don’t agree with that stance have many other options out there.

      1. Offside

        Mate I said that tongue in cheek. I stand by it this should be that line in the sand moment but the management of this club have shown they don’t have it in them to make the tough calls

      2. Danny Crnkovich

        Is your support of BA because he opens the gates to you & your mates at training sessions? The club has given you great seats on halfway at Comm Bank as thanks for all of your positive spin. Don’t worry I’m not jealous, I don’t need need to go to training to talk about players like world beaters because they had a good session running through a tackle pad.
        Why is the only negative about the coach on this site in the comments section? Never from the feature writers. We all know the reason why.
        Feel free to abuse me, ban me, I love this club & I am so sick of this total denial of anyone within the club to question this coach’s methods & waste of a 3 year premiership window?
        Questions to be asked to Arthur;
        Where is our variation in attack? The boring power play & Moses kick can’t be it.
        Why have you burned out our forwards every year playing too many minutes?
        Where’s Moses running game? Why does he always run sideways & not want to take a hit?
        Why hasn’t Mahoney been given the freedom to scoop from dummy half off a quick play the ball like he did in Under 20s?
        Why can’t our edge defence, especially our right side ever seem to get it right?
        Cartwright, one of the best ball players in the NRL, yes he’ll make a few mistakes & miss a few tackles, why have you turned him into a battering ram who’s lucky to get 5 mins off the bench? Surely his creativity with the ball can be used somehow?
        Why does Nathan Brown get the Mannah treatment?
        Why haven’t you ever hired high quality assistant coaches (former head coaches) who might actually bring some fresh ideas? And I don’t mean Mary, Ennis & Joey in cameo roles.
        9 years of chase the collision, front load our effort areas, play to our identity, we didn’t turn up, Molly coddle the players like mates & be loyal despite terrible performances. Why? Why? Why?

        1. Trapped in the 1970"s

          You can also attend the training sessions if you want to Danny.
          I’ve got good seats at CommBank which I pay for and I’m sure Sixties pays for his as well. To suggest some kind of pay for comment arrangement is ridiculous and you mightn’t realise it but those sorts of statements just dilutes the credibility of your overall comments.

          1. Danny Crnkovich

            Let’s be clear, I didn’t mention money & in fact I didn’t even think about it until you mentioned it. And to question the credibility of my other comments….you know my statements/questions about the coach are true, you just can’t see it through your “front load our effort area tinted glasses”.
            I hope I am wrong & we win the comp under Arthur, I’ll come on here & personally apologise to all of you….gladly.
            I just feel as though we have totally wasted the last 3 seasons with a coach who is good for rebuilding but not for going that extra step. This is our best squad since 2005, if Brian Smith of old had this squad we’d be challenging for a GF spot & playing a much smarter brand of footy. And I was one of the ones calling for his sacking from 2002 onwards, so it’s nothing personal against Arthur, it’s about recognising when someone’s time is up. You guys who run this site are the closest link between the fans & management, they read your articles, yet every time I open this site I am frustrated by your total refusal to call it as it is because you worry about offending & being shunned at training or access to do your podcast.
            You guys are no different to Paul Kent who will never criticise Rick Stuart, or Ennis who suddenly this season tips Parra every week to win.
            Again I hope I am wrong but in the meantime start writing without your BA is my mate glasses on!!!!

  5. Paul taylor

    This team is perhaps the worst parramatta team in a decade despite the wooden spoon years . Difference is those wooden spoon teams had no where near the playing talent this team has and the competition in 2022 is there to be taken Imo . Melb are not as good , penrith starting to struggle and one of the emerging teams will win it imo. Should have could have been us.

    Mentally weak and piss poor coaching from top to bottom. Courage comes when you finally accept you aren’t good enough and that you contributed that and get someone in who can turn it around .

    1. Prometheus

      Gutho said ” we didn’t show up” BA said ” we got bashed up” This is from our leaders. I’m at the stage where I don’t give a shit if they get ” bashed up” or ” don’t show up”

    2. Gol Post author

      Worst is a bit much, but probably the most disappointing. The gap between expectation and reality is horrible. It is worse because nearly every loss is a train wreck. We’ve lost 8 games and in only two of those was the effort half decent, the rest were towel ups.

      Like you say, it hurts even more because the competition is very winnable, Penrith and Melbourne are down a bit and we’ve got their number, but we’ll be lucky to make it at all at this rate.

  6. pete

    Well said Gol. I cannot disagree.
    We should have shown up to honour Paul Green – just embarrassing. It seems any time that calls for honouring something we capitulate.
    Junior 6 runs for 69m in 38 minutes. He could be injured or he just catted out. I think I could have done better at a fraction of the price.
    Our soft underbelly exposed yet again.
    South’s are a better team especially in the forwards. Tatola and Nichols we seem to have the knock off Bali version. Cook and Murray humiliated Mahoney and Matterson. Lane did well. But that’s it. If you see how Cook controls the ruck while Mahoney seems just to wing it in attack. His tackles are just for stats. Third man in just locking up the legs unnecessarily instead of getting back into the defencive line. Going the wrong way or just sitting on his butt and allowing them to score. He just leaves room up the middle and lacks dominance in every tackle. We should have taken JMK as a swap this year. Maybe Mahoney’s shoulder is worse than we know… But I doubt it.
    It’s the first time our bench outplayed our starters (except Lane). We looked better without Reg and Junior we seemed to make more ground. But it was just that our starters were inept (except Lane).
    We need to win our last 3 games!!

    1. Parra Matters

      Did anyone else who was at the game think there was something wrong with Papali’i? He stood and moved like someone with a bad back. Not making excuses for his performance but he just didnt look right.

      1. pete

        ICE was humbled. Not sure if he’s injured. But they were all dominated except Lane who tried but was well controlled.
        We really need a defensive coach and a psychologist next year. We cannot continue with this defence issues.
        I strongly suggest BA gets the coach whisperer that the Roosters used.
        We can’t keep living off the fact we beat Panthers.

  7. Zero58

    Of late every good win turns out to be a false dawn. This is almost the same team that nearly rolled Penrith in the playoffs last year and losing it to cheating by the trainer. Could the Eels be suffering from a hangover from last year? Losing Moses again at the business end does hurt the team. I watched the game on Kayo and Parra gave me the impression they were like a deer stuck in headlights not really knowing what to do. I can’t understand why having the two best prop forwards in the game and yet South’s players were standing in “held” tackles and allowed to offload at will. Parra just did not seem to have the ability to put them on the ground. Paulo and RCG should hammer those blokes so they don’t get up in a hurry. That’s what South’s did to us And, this solo running one out is so predictable – they should have adjusted and ran in pairs for a late pass to the other.
    Let’s be honest about this without being cruel. Jake is not ready for the business end of the season. Walker made mincemeat of him which was the same last year when they played South’s and got flogged. Jake has the speed over a distance but it’s his acceleration that is badly lacking. In the off season he needs to work on his speed of the mark and bulk his shoulders up. And he could not pick out the decoy runner. I don’t understand why they gave most of the kicking to Jake and they seem to ignore Dylan. Reed Mahoney is the culprit because it is himwho wants to be the general and lead the team – only to disaster.
    South’s are almost unforgiving against Parra and this attitude goes back to the days of Fitzgerald who was most vocal against South’s return to the fold.
    Reed Mahoney last year was almost rated the best QLD hooker but, this year he was not even considered and still would not be considered. He is no where near the form of last year before getting injured. BA has to make some hard decisions concerning Reed, Jake and Paulo. And his use of the bench still defies and serious explanation.
    Parra is the new North Sydney when it comes to consistency. They can win big games but, can’t hold it together for others. South’s are not that good.
    They are really a heartbreak team and this offered so much but, I am afraid it will again lead to disappointment. Someone should tell them it is okay to have a killer instinct – it’s okay to flog a team to death – it’s okay to win every week.
    What next – we can only hope it’s better.

    1. Colin Hussey

      Agree, but I do recollect that the eels had 3 tries disallowed by the Ref which could have a difference.

      1. Zero58

        I do believe Atkins is somewhat hard on Parra and in some way think he is worse than Sutton
        Souths definitely have the wood on Parra and I belive it’s more than just a game to them. Parra has to learn to hate other teams because too many teams lift against the Eels.

        By the way Colin I read you go back to the early sixties. I go back as far as 1958 as a pre-teen watching the games on those wooden seafs. Dad was a founding member I think badge 69.

        1. Colin Hussey

          When my dad was released from RAAF training at Holbrock at WW’2’s end, he went back to the Lithgow small arms factory to finish off trades. he would travel as much as possible from Lithgow to the Eels area where he continued in helping those on various stands and working to get the eels accepted into the then Sydney competition. That part went on and the eels started as a team in 1947 IIRC, my year of birth. Dad continued working with those members in the beginnings.

          I have a number of badges that include my membership at the Leagues club and Football club, dad got a number of badges that I still have, including my own, there was a meeting in the 60’s IIRC where new membership badges were handed out that had a number of older members lose out with their old badges & the membership number being given to many members was based on new members, and it meant that long time members actually lost those original allocations. Other aspect was that one had to be 21 or over to be a member of the PLC & the Leagues club itself, my late Godfather who was a prisoner in Changi during the war, he joined also at a time when he had recovered from the guest house treatment.

          I am thankful of having only a few splinters in my butt from those glorious seats around the ground.

          I understand that the Ref named Atkins is the son of former eels full back Graeme Atkins. No favours for dad or followers.

          1. Colin Hussey

            Where did I imply anywhere that the ref was the cause of the defeat? I was only making the point that the opposition was let off in a number of areas. The other side of the coin though shows we had 3 tries dissalowed by both the ref, and referral’s to the bunker.

            Having seen more than a few ref’s over the years, I see him as no better nor worse than many others, often those who do give a fair run, also hand out penalties nearer to the end of the game and at the end of the field. So, I mentioned his dad, it was not aimed at his dad either. I also wonder what the sideline refs do during a game.

  8. Colin Hussey

    I suppose the best I could think of the eels Friday night failure is— I’ve seen worse” I really wonder about the weakness in the eels first grade squad, also the players on the bench, have they got super glue spread along it?

    If I am glad of one thing its I’m glad I was not at the game, it really had a smell of death, the players moving on end of season have done nothing really in more than enough games this year. If there is any hope of a win this year I would put those leaving to be put back to reggies and get some of the players there up into the top side.

    Hooker is one area of dire need, Mahoney to cup level and give Hands a shot at hooker, that is/was his favored spot, and goes well there. The bench itself has to have players who are going to be with the eels going forward, and want to stay. Those going elsewhere can go now or latter.

    There is one huge issue that has been with the eels for some years now and that is the wingers that constantly leave their wings to come inside and get caught out in no mans land along with his usual close up ally in with the centers.

    The other aspect with that issue is that the players not following the opposition who carry the ball to the sideline and our wingers are not following that player leaving a huge gap for the other team to score from, they should be following with eyes wide open who has the ball and be marking him, our two primary outside backs, also need to stay in their positions and mark the opposition players.

    I am sure that the players do not train as has been’s but very much different on the field..

  9. Parra Pete

    This was the team’s WORST effort of the season..BUT, I know, as we all know, that this team can produce an outstanding performance….as it has done on many occasions this year. Just when it is needed. Just when it is least expected.
    Be disappointed, but not disillusioned. It comes down to what happens on the day. It ain’t over until it’s over.

    1. Offside

      They will need to win 1 out of the last 3 to guarantee a 7th or 8th finish then need to win 4 games in a row to win a grand final nothing this year had shown that winning 5 out of 7 games is remotely possible

      1. Parra Pete

        It depends on the DAY with this team. An ON day and anything is possible. To me….Grand Final day is an anti-climax to a season. Win, YOU BEAUTY, euphoria last until midnight…LOSE, meh, another 3 months waiting for it to start up again..watching Clubs plunder the best players to add to their strengths.
        I take every game as it comes. I don’t pre-judge any result. All teams are so close, that it depends on the day, and interpretation by referees. It ain’t over until its over..Que sera, sera.

    2. ST123

      Eels had everything to play for. The result had nothing o do with effort. The team is clueless how to deal with souths

  10. Anonymous

    Paulo, Campbell Gillard, Mahoney, and Papali’i were garbage. Matterson not much better.
    Thank goodness for Gutho and Lane. Cartwright looked the most enthusiastic forward besides Lane

    1. Lucky Lyn

      I agree Carty tried to change the game when he went across field several times waiting for someone to run into a gap for him or turn the ball under to them but no takers still think Cartys ball skills could be a X Factor for us moving forward thoughts Anonymous

  11. Hinto

    You sure have got it in for Mahoney haven’t you. 64 tackles and you give a D-.
    Every week you smash this bloke.
    Just be careful as you crawl outta gurtherson arse it’s a big world out there .
    Sure it is was a bad game I’m not disagreeing.
    See YOU in the run on side next week mate and we’ll see how you go.

    1. Anonymous

      Most of reeds tackles are third man in with little to no actual effectiveness. Last week’s game was probably a season highlight for him other than that it’s been sub standard shite.

    2. Wilhelmina

      Errr, did you watch his offence? He’s taking the wrong option more often than not, and worse, doing it slowly. That’s a major reason we aren’t getting over the advantage line. If I’m yelling at him in the first ten, I kinda know we’re in for a bad night. And boy, were we.

      As for defence, the opposition target him, knowing he’s not gunna pull off a 1:1 and the offload chance is high. In comparison, Gutho pulled off three or four try-saving plays in the first 20 minutes.

      Your last comment is utterly irrelevant.

      1. Zero58

        Mahoney is hurting our attack with wrong options. Too many times he went the wrong way. I know it’s late in the season but I think he should be dropped. Actually I think Jake would be better there than at seven We really miss Ray Stone.and he wouldn’t leave anyone standing to offload.

    3. pete

      Third man in and locking up the legs unnecessarily. He’s just doing that for his stats instead of getting back to the defensive line. His tackles made look good but if you watch him most of his tackles could have been left to the other guys in the tackle. He should be getting back in line. The stats also don’t include him being out of position or on the ground or running the wrong side of the play.
      How many times did South’s go in behind the ruck it’s really obvious to other teams. He is a liability.
      He provides Zero dominant tackles. He is basically a speed bump at best. His service is probably the worst in the NRL. He has deteriorated from last year.
      I was a big fan last year but I can see he is not cutting it!

  12. MickB

    Some people clearly don’t understand the satire in this article each week. Very odd.

    This season has produced a handful of good highs. But the lows, when considering the theoretical strength and consistent make up of our squad, are just awful.

    On the plus side, we are now due for a win against the dogs ….. nothing worse than losing to them.

  13. Anonymous

    Gutho and Lane tried so hard, thanks boys. The rest really E-F level. JA has a bit of an excuse he is so new and learning, but others and the coaching? So bad. We were losing the middle, so BA puts Carty on, now while Carty showed some attacking promise he is not a dominant middle style player, why no put on Ogden and see if his size and enthusiasm could win back some of the physicality the coach loves, I would love to have someone explain this coaching.

    Clearly the coach told JA it is your side to run as the first half was very different to the Manly game where JA was eased in and Brown did the kicking, this first half Brown was nowhere while JA had control, unfortunately the coach expects too much from the young man, a couple of 7 tackle set kicks didn’t help the team or the kids confidence.

    Put a red line through the Eels for 2022, we are done, we are dusted.
    Who is coming out for the cricket tests this year?

  14. Atticus

    Can you have a go at grading the coach each week? I appreciate it is a little more difficult than grading a player, but some calm, objective and constructive (still humorous) attempt at accountability for coach as well as players might be interesting. Emphasise the constructive and objective.

    1. Gol Post author

      Everyone wants the boot to be put into Brad Arthur, but other than the terrible bench management we just don’t see enough of how the team prepares and whether players stick to the plan or not to give any kind of fair assessment.

      For every week like this where you want to blame the coach for not getting the team up for the game (and I don’t know if that is the coach, the playing group, the culture or whatever else) remember how we tore Manly to pieces with those early short side raids or how we beat the Roosters consistently on the inside ball, both tactical coaching plays. Look at the development of just about every player on the roster, almost all who are better now than they were when they arrived, and how much of that is the coach.

      There’s definitely a question to be asked about coaching, specifically the mental and preparation side of the game, but I reckon the solution is support and assistants around Arthur rather than replacing him.

      1. Lucky Lyn

        Well said Gol I am sick to death of Coaches getting blamed when losses occur when is Players going to be held responsible they take wrong options on field make errors miss tackles once on field do you believe Carty could still be our X Factor he tried to change the game by running across field waiting for someone to run into a gap for him or turn a ball under but no takers he has quality ball skills but has been used more as a running forward he can be erratic with off loads at times but we need something different come Finals Time thoughts

        1. Wilhelmina

          I think we all know he’s capable in attack, but his defence is the problem for me – he was so often ineffective in his tackle attempts, hitting the chest and not wrapping up the ball or stopping momentum. He is strong enough to be far more effective than he is. That’s really on him – we’ve seen Moses improve enormously in defence and you know you get 100% effort from him, even when he needs help to get the man down. I’m just not seeing the same desire from Carty.

      2. Chef

        Yes and look at how the titans tore Manly to peices aswell. Puts our win into perspective as manly are a shell of a club since the rainbow jersey saga.
        Also the assistants around Arthur are his hand picked meaning he has to take the blame especially our line defensive tactics.
        Cmon, the coach is the common denominator. 9 years is a long enough period on which to draw conclusion

      3. Atticus

        Gol … this a great site and my comment was constructive … I did not “blame” Brad Arthur. I object to your implicit assumption/suggestion that I eas doing so.
        I like the way you, in your own style, aim for some accountability for the players. Why not do that for the coach?
        In your response above, you attribute various successes to the coach (in the Manly and Easts games). So I take it you agree that it is possible to attribute responsibility to the coach, for the good and bad.
        Hence my suggestion you give a grade to the coach.
        By the way … I dont accept the coach is free from blame if players keep ignoring the game plan. There comes a time when the coach is responsible for picking a player who continues to do that.
        Finally … and to be clear … no reasonable person could attribute all of the success or failure to the coach … there are others who must also be accountable including management and players … but I think it is possible to attribute some of the responsibility (both ways) to the coach on game day … that is all I am suggesting.

        1. sixties

          Hi Atticus, we discussed this through the Instagram account. I think Gol pretty much provided the same rationale about weekly grading of a coach. Anyway, from Day 1 Grades has always been about the on-field performances of the players and most weeks it’s meant to mix fun with assessment. Weeks like this one make it tough to find a smile.

  15. Brett Allen

    The truly depressing thing is the constant repeat of the same old problems. I am so sick of hearing BA say “We need to be better” or words to that effect.
    After nine seasons, when can we expect that improvement BA ?
    When can we expect our right edge defence to improve ?
    When can we expect to turn up to a game utterly confident that our team will be ready to go ?
    When can we expect to see improvement in the one percenters, the attention to detail ?
    When can we expect to see a ruthless Eels team that gives the opposition absolutely nothing ?
    It’s been 9 years Brad, when can we expect even one of these things ?

    1. Spark

      BA has done a wonderful job but there must be a time when the Board or BA himself, looking in the mirror, must just ask themselves if the lemon is absolutely completely dry? Brad can’t stay here forever without the team improving and there must be a time when a conversation is had. I would guess though that BA still believes that he is the best man for the job and due to the fact that he loves the club, really wants the job forever. Therefore it will be up to the board to make a professional decision…. Don’t get your hopes up.

  16. AlanR

    The South’s forwards played the Eels forwards off the paddock in the first half Eels had absolutely no field position – there was no aggression in the tackles – no commitment – Eels forwards should have watch the Wiremu Gregg tackle in the late part of the NSw Cup what a hit the injury to the South’s player was unfortunate however.

    1. pete

      I know BA won’t, he’s been too loyal for too long and that’s how you lose respect. Loyalty has an expiration date. But after that performance it would be a good time to “rest” a few.
      I’d never be a coach but. Ogden, Rein and Greig to replace the front row. Rodwell for Matto. Rein and Jake at least have a better combination. BA needs to show what accountability means. It’s not good enough to ‘not turn up’ we have people that have lost jobs and businesses because of covid. We have had people lose everything in floods and yet we have players on $600k not putting in!!
      I said in another comment they’d be hitting the Kurnell sandhills at 4am the next 2 days after that performance.
      South’s have proven over the last few years they are the better team. That’s not to say we can’t beat them. It’s just getting harder to believe.

      1. sixties

        Pete, you’d know that no coach ever makes that many changes to a team based on a bad game. No coach would drop around 3 million of their team’s cap, from the same part of the field, to reggies. Replacing the starting middles and dummy half with the reggies starting middles would not be seen anywhere. And in Wiremu‘s case, he was coming off the bench in NSW Cup the week before.
        The middles produced by far their worst game of the season in a game that was meant to mean a lot. I’d give them the chance to rectify it. If they can’t, I’d start at least one off the bench.
        I’ll concede a couple of things. BA is too loyal at times. Secondly, Reed’s service (as distinct from his effort) is not good in 2022. I’d be biting the bullet and either including Rein or Hand in the bench and giving Reed a spell. But that’s just my opinion.

        1. pete

          I know Sixties you are spot on. That’s why I’d never be a good coach LoL. Because I would definitely lose the dressing room. They would be suffering in more ways than one after a loss like that. Not if it was a close loss with good efforts but like that game where we were pea-hearted. I’d be ripping the doors of the hinges and they’d be hitting the. Kurnell sandhills at 4am…
          I think you are right about Rein as well.
          The Broncos knew they had to win so they had 3 big middles start. We should have started the same against South’s and sent a message….
          Anyway

        2. Colin Hussey

          One can only hope that Mitch will be right for next game, he will at least tighten both defense and attack, & not forgetting his goal kicks either.

          With Mahoney moving on for next season, I would be looking at replacements for next year now. We do have 2 experienced 9’s for next year in Rein and Hodgson both age 32, so there is two easy replacements, in what I have seen of Rein so far is not anything great. Hodgson an ex Pom who usually have VG halves, either may take the spot next year Hodgson only on 1 year deal with a CO for him beyond 2023.

          From what I have seen of Hand, and its not a lot but he has been getting good time and playing well in the Knock on cup. From my perspective I would be looking at Hand being on the bench for the rest of the year and see how he goes and could be the best option. I cannot though,see his name mentioned in any of the team lists that would imply he has a contract (of sorts) with the eels. We need a fast good skilled rake and one that can take the team on with good skills of a hooker.

          Three NRL games to go, dogs, mules & storm. I believe that the dogs will be pumped with the acquisition of new coach, so wont be a roll over. Mules are beatable and won both of our last two games against them. Storm will be seeking revenge for the early losses.

  17. JonBoy

    I was at the game and could see before kick off we were not present. It was the most lack lustre warm up I’ve ever witnessed. Not one player looked like they wanted to be there.

    1. Rocket

      I’ve missed one home game this season.
      This is the first time I recall the entire team warming up on the park.

      1. Parra Matters

        Yes, we also commented on that. Souths did a mini run and then went in, the game was almost ready to start before Parra went in. No time for a last minute coach’s words.

  18. Sec50

    I have asked this question previously but yet to get an answer. Do we have a full time sports psychologist involved with the team and individuals? We know physically our team can compete with anyone but mentally we are dubious to say the least. Mental preparation is paramount for good performance.

    1. sixties

      Sec, I have answered you every time but you obviously haven’t seen the answer. See the screenshot I think Andrew May might still be involved but not 100% sure.

      1. Sec50

        Thanks 60s. Sorry I did miss it. Herein lies the problem 60s – you are extremely knowledgeable about Parra and don’t know much about the psychology of performance happening in the club because it is either behind the scenes or more likely not happening. Attitude has a lot to do with mental state and it is barkingly obvious that our best and our worst does not reconcile with a great mental coach. Time to address it. It’s not too late!

    2. pete

      If we do they should be sacked. But in all honesty.
      We need;
      1. A proven defensive coach ex storm/Roosters (wrestling included)
      2. A kicking coach
      3. full time psychologist and hypnotist.
      4. BA needs to work with the coach whisperer that the Roosters used Bradley Stubbs.
      5. A new HOF Daniel Anderson is working for the Roosters? How?

    3. BDon

      Ive been interested in this and I know sixties has offered information.What we can’t seem to know is exactly what sort of program is being utilised. It is not a simple process to properly use these techniques. A quick blog can’t do it justice, but here’s just one random. Different coaches need different approaches, let me offer Jack Gibson and Roy Masters. JG was street-wise, fully tried and tested, you’d better take the death stare than the alternative. RM was an intellectual who wished he was street-wise but had a glint in his eye and a feel for the game. The psychology capability of each is different so likely different consultants and programs would best suit. But it’s not only the coach, it’s the club, officials, players and supporters that have to be recognised.My guess is that BA does not utilise a fully integrated approach.

  19. Johnno

    Hi guys,
    The real issue for me is the defence, if your getting beaten by any team let alone repeatedly, your not adjusting your defensive strategies simple. Now either we aren’t being taught that or the players arent listening . Either way it’s incumbent on the coach to address either issue. Not rocket science

  20. Longfin Eel

    Well everyone has completely written us off now for 2022. I am assuming that was the cunning plan and we will build back into ruthless mode from here on?? If that was not part of any cunning plan and Parra were truly trying to get that win to secure a top 4 spot, well they have also lost most of their own fans for this season as well.

    I think it’s clear that we play one way only, and when oppositions thrown something different at us we can’t adapt. That calls into question player skills, on-field leadership, adaptability, and coaching. How can we possibly win a premiership, or at least go deep into the finals when those things are still being questioned? The club needs a drastic change to fix this, it’s not something that a meeting and hard work during the off season is going to fix.

  21. Offside

    I don’t pay attention to how the board structure works I gave up on that along tine ago but how do the board get held accountable?
    They extended BA despite clear signs he had reached his limit
    They over see the questionable recruitment and retention.

    Not saying sack the board or start up that in fighting stuff again but just curious will there be any accountability to those who make these calls?

    Anyway Dogs this week a genuine danger game based on what happened last time and what just happened

  22. Mr controversy aka rev

    If we think we will get past the 1st week we are kidding ourselves.

    Imo i think we miss the 8. Canberra will finish in 8th spot. Eels in 9th n brad will be punted in the off season.

    Surely we can’t have a coach for this long with out winning a premiership.

    Not going to comment on the player’s ratings.

    The team know’s they can play better. Just piss poor vs south’s.

    I will say something about brad Arthur.

    He hates the number 14 because who ever plays in.that jumper get’s about 5 minutes of game time.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

%d bloggers like this: