It was strange feeling making my way into the stands last Friday night.

My family was in attendance because we wanted to support our club and players, but I was extremely apprehensive about what was about to unfold.

However, the opportunity to be there and show my appreciation for Gutho and his efforts across 200 games was something I did not want to miss.

A milestone like that is massive for any player. It’s even more special for a player that has overcome significant injuries to take his place as one of the most dedicated and passionate to ever pull on an Eels jersey.

Over recent weeks we’ve been subjected to noise suggesting that Gutho is replaceable in our team. I couldn’t disagree more.

This team needs a heartbeat and as far as I can see, Gutho is that heartbeat.

All players, even the absolute champions, have weaknesses. But sometimes there is not enough credit given to strengths. Gutherson does not just have a list of strengths, he’s a player who has worked hard to turn weaknesses into strengths.

Gutho under the high ball against the Panthers

I remember watching a younger Gutho at fullback being really uneasy under the high ball. Now when the high ball goes up I have no doubt or apprehension. I can only imagine the copious hours he has spent developing his craft.

So, as I have sat and listened to talk about the team composition over the last few weeks, I have often commented that we need to be careful because the grass is not always greener. Gutho doesn’t have the explosive pace of a fullback like Tabuai-Fidow, but then again, the Hammer isn’t the King. He doesn’t drive his team or save tries like Gutherson.

Much the same thoughts have gone through my head when I have heard similar talk around Dylan Brown.

We support a team sport and that means the performance of a player can be impacted by those beside them.

Synergy between players is often the uncredited key to success. How many different players have lined up beside Dylan Brown this year, either directly to his right or his left? How many different halves, or dummy halves has he had? How often has he changed his role or his side of the field?

Dylan Brown in run mode

Despite these regular changes, Brown has given his all on a weekly basis. Some weeks he is more effective than others, but there should never be a question about his effort or commitment.

Last Friday, people were reminded of what we have in Brown – a quick, dangerous ball runner who will be instrumental in future successes when there is greater stability around him.

The rest of the year will be hard and I doubt there will be much to smile about. That’s the reality.

On that note, I just hope those in power make smart decisions that are grounded in reality. Any thinking that Parra would be better without Gutherson or Brown should be immediately dismissed.

Because whenever these two players take to the field for the Eels, we can be confident that we have stars who care.

Shelley

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