EELS’ BROWN REPLACEMENT?
Parramatta will toy with the idea of giving exciting young prospect Joash Papalii a crack at Dylan Brown’s vacant no.6 jersey. With Lachie Galvin-Belmore bound the Eels will consider a host of options as they work out who will be Mitch Moses’ long-term halves partner. There is support for Papalii to be given a shot given how quick and skillful he is. Papalii rose through the ranks as a fullback and finally made his NRL debut last week off the bench against the Sea Eagles.The other options include Sandon Smith and Jonah Pezet. Papalii, 20, has spent some time in the halves in NSW Cup this year and may get a crack at some point in first grade this year.
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Yeah I can't comment on him defensively, Ryles doesn't seem shy to take a risk or two and as you say the playing group have belief in what's going on. I realise it's a big call and there's risks involved but the payoff could be huge over the next year or two if all goes to plan.
I also think what Kenny Power said on page 1 is important, if this is going to be something that is ongoing there has to be a pathway, a succession plan, short term contracts and incentives for young players to stay with us.
Absolutely, could be huge.
Considering how involved Papalli was from the wing last week, completely out of position on debut, you get the feeling he wouldn't die wondering with more opportunities at 6.
One advantage of trying while Dylan Brown is still here is he could be defending at centre next to Papalli - which helps Joash & nullifies some of that concern defensively.
Thats a very good point, it will be hard to keep talent like Papalli if there isnt a genuine plan for him.
As you said Adam, Ryles isn't one to shy from a big call, you wouldnt put it past him.
It's going to be interesting whoever takes up the new role at 6 I think teams will definitely look to have a go in that area.DB can be left isolated defensively and he's proven it year in year out when tackles are needed to be made on hard running and bigger back rowers he's upto the task.
These 6s being mentioned are smaller and more slight in frame better strap it up because they'll get tested without a doubt.
Whenever this change takes place, if it's next week or next year, you're going to really struggle with it.
I heard on the grapevine that Sandon Smith has asked for a "change" in his management. Things may be cooking
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