Since 2018, the year Parra finished last and celebrated when they were only beaten by single figures, I have endeavoured to tell my stories and experiences sitting in the stands, watching our team play. Like all of you, I am…
From The Stands – September 19, 2022: Proud To Be Blue And Gold
Four teams are left, and after a wonderful night at our home ground last Friday I have to say that I am so proud that we are one of them. Every one of the remaining four teams plays a slightly…
From The Stands – September 11, 2022: Supporters Deserve Better
Whether I’m sitting in the stands at Penrith, or squeezed onto the hill, I hate the experience. There is nothing romantic or nostalgic about sub-standard facilities. It is unacceptable to have to queue for over ten minutes to use a…
From The Stands – September 4, 2022: Sivo, Moses And The Attacking Options
What a magnificent night at our wonderful home, CommBank Stadium. How was your journey through Thursday and Friday? I’m normally excited when going to the footy, but lastThursday I was so nervous; ridiculously nervous. I was nervous all day at…
From The Stands – August 28, 2022: Time To Level The Playing Field
There was so much to like about our game against the Broncos. Parra’s forwards were brutal, yet skilful. Gutherson’s support play returned to the elite level we know and love. Sivo’s involvement was first class. He wasn’t just a weapon…
From The Stands – August 22, 2022: More Afternoon Footy
Being at the footy on a sunny Saturday arvo was brilliant. And my message from the stands is simple. Thank you! Thank you to the Eels and Bulldogs fans who turned up, cheered and made for a wonderful atmosphere. I…
From The Stands – August 16, 2022: Old Rival, Same Threats
Our players and coaches have trained and made sacrifices since last November to try to again qualify for finals footy and to go a few steps further. Anyone watching From The Stands last Friday night could write a list of…
From The Stands – August 8, 2022: Integrity, Respect, Excellence And Honesty Revisited
Back on the 21st March 2018, after watching Parra’s painful and embarrassing Round 2 loss to Manly at Brookie, I wrote the following: “ Integrity, Respect, Excellence (and Honesty) – find this in your performance, restore the pride – and we’ll…
From The Stands – August 2, 2022: A Return To Positivity
It was a welcome return to the positive when reflecting on my experience in the stands last Friday night. The packed stadium provided a genuine hum of anticipation that could be heard and felt before the start of play. All…
From The Stands – July 24, 2022: Calling Out Those Who Would Divide Us
From The Stands is written about my weekly experience as an Eels supporter. It is normally full of praise for match days at CommBank Stadium, even in defeat. Home games provide a sense of togetherness and pride, with supporters united…