It was equally wonderful and brutal being in the Accor Stadium stands last Monday.

The “wonderful” was that atmosphere that is always present at Eels v Dogs games, and the huge crowd on the Kings Birthday holiday brought the big match noise that the traditional clash deserved.

If you’re an Eels fan, you fully understand what I mean by “brutal”. Once more the Eels couldn’t get the job done, and once more injury has exposed the lack of depth in the Eels backline.

This column could dedicate thousands of words to the frustration of Eels supporters who are struggling to understand what has happened to the Parramatta roster.

But, this week I want to focus on something positive – the undeniable talent of Blaize Talagi.

The emergence of Talagi has created much debate about how to accommodate both the young gun, and the veteran Gutherson, in the same team.

If we consider Talagi to be undertaking a form of apprenticeship, then best practice would involve a master tradesman or mentor. This is something that we’ve seen time and again with some of rugby league’s great players. In recent timed, Reece Walsh has regularly credited the influence that Billy Slater has had on his game.

Blaize does have something special about him. You can already see his natural skills are rare. We had more glimpses of that on Monday.

Talagi celebrates his first NRL try

But like all young players Blaize has much to learn. Positioning in defence is possibly the greatest priority for him.critical. But there are two sides to the game, and when it comes to attack, even a naturally gifted player like Talagi requires plenty of input. When to run, hold the ball or pass are all crucial for the fullback and centre positions as both are frequently involved in line break assists or try assists.

At the moment, I don’t think it matters whether Talagi should be developed as a fullback or centre. His growth in key skills will benefit either position.

When it comes to mentors at the Eels, few compare to Gutherson.

Blaize would have learned plenty from Gutherson on the training track. Spending a full preseason alongside the King exposed Blaize to the intensity and professionalism of Gutho’s preparation. The King’s work ethic is second to none, and he sets the standards for young players and experienced peers alike.

The competitiveness that drives Gutherson’s preparation is one of the greatest qualities that the Eels Captain brings on match days. It’s unquestionably beneficial to have a role model when it comes to attitude and professionalism. But through Gutho, Talagi can also learn some of the finer points of backline play.

The King’s defensive prowess is renowned across the NRL. By being in the line in front of Gutho, Blaize is gaining first hand experience in how to read an opposition attack. And when it comes to game smarts, there are few in the game better than Gutho.

Gutherson

Will Blaize be with the Eels over the long term?

This question shouldn’t need to be asked, and yet in his debut season, supporters fear that the Eels will lose yet another talented pathways player.

In keeping with the positive theme of this post, let’s assume that he’s not going anywhere. And given that he’s only just celebrated his 19th birthday, there’s plenty of time for him to learn from one of the best – Clint Gutherson.

Looking ahead to Saturday night, the task for our team, and our backline, will be tougher than what they faced against the Bulldogs. The Roosters boast stars right across the back five.

I don’t know whether the Eels can get it done, but I can guarantee that my family and I will be there in the stands cheering as usual.

Shelley

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