Soward, in his weekly The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup preview “Short Side” on the NSWRL.com.au website, was glowing in his praise of Arthur’s skills – showing one of the halfback’s two tries in the 40-8 thumping over the Dragons in Round five last weekend.
“It’s their variation that I’m excited about. A silky pass from Arthur creates the space for (Jordan) Rankin, who puts the fullback (Sean Russel) straight through the middle,” Soward said.
Arthur is then one of three Eels players in support to finish off the move.
“For me that’s a classy play because everyone knows their role; does it at the right time at speed; and passes out the front of them for a great try to Jakob Arthur.”
Arthur’s figures for the match were nothing short of impressive: a line-break, two line-break assists, a try assist, four tackle-busts and he scored two tries himself.
“He had quite a game against the St George Illawarra Dragons … he is actually putting pressure on Mitch Moses and Dylan Brown,” Soward said.
“If (NRL coach) Brad Arthur thinks they can’t get the job done, or haven’t improved their attack in the next couple of weeks, I can see Jakob Arthur potentially forcing himself into that side – maybe coming off the bench – as a bit of a shot over the bow of the halves in the NRL team.
“Parramatta Eels are becoming a real force under coach Ryan Carr. They were impressive last weekend and have got forwards trying to put themselves into contention for first grade.
“They are slowly becoming favourites to win this competition and maybe challenge (ladder leaders) Penrith.”
The Eels, currently in fourth spot, take on the fifth-placed Raiders at GIO Stadium at 5.15pm on Saturday.
The Raiders lost to the Panthers 24-10 in round five so will be eager to get back in the winner’s circle.
Replies
Jacob Arthur could easily be the future 7 at parra. Looks very composed and has plenty of time with the ball
That'd be interesting because Arthur isn't on a top tier contract. He's a development player. And anyone watching NSW Cup would know it's been Rankin really directing the team around. Arthur has been playing a really simple role.
Rankin for sure! I have been watching these matches, Arthur is by no means making up the numbers, takes the ball directly to the line and doesn't mind copping a whack in doing so .
However , Rankin should be used as cover in my opinion.
W Smith needs a better than solid game v Raiders
And yet Rankin doesn't even get a look in for the NRL side. In my opinion he should have been selected against the Raiders for tomorrow's clash.
Agreed Monto.
Rankin should be the 5/8 against Canberra.
No offence to Will but he offers nothing.
From what I have seen of him, he is very fit, technically sound and can create. He has the perfect foil in RANKIN who I am very impressed with. Similar player to Blake GREEN. Knows his job and does it. Steers the team around. Arthurs will be better the longer he adapts to the men and collisions in the reggies. More he getting known, more defence he will be doing and greater speed of his development. Bit rich to suggest MOSES is under threat.
Arthur is not ready for NRL this year.
Next year would be the earliest to expect some game time
I would let Jake work through his game in second tier comp this season, however he does look like he has what it takes to make it in the NRL. I have been watching him play since the under 11's and he is certainly becoming a good player. Too much pressure putting him in the NRL this season but who knows after another pre season. I wish him all the best and hope he lives up to his potential.
Seems a chick wrote this article, so its invalid for mine.
Arthur is miles off firstgrade.
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