With the competition so tight and the Eels sitting so close to the top 8, Parramatta should go into this game like it's a grand final.
Last time we met the Bulldogs we had players dropping like flies.
We had injuries to Watmough, Radradra, Takarangi, Sandow, Meoroa.
We are very much the outsiders and I think based on form deservedly so.
If we can clinch a win against the Dogs I think our confidence would receive a massive boost and our chances of making the top 8 will quadruple.
Amazing that such a pivotal game has fallen between the two traditional rivals.
If we can win the contact we'll win this game.
Smart play is required to limit the amount of ball in our half.In recent times it has been our desperation defence that has got us the wins.
I don't think this game will be any different.
Eels by 1. (Sandow field goal)
Replies
The first 20mins is the key. We saw in Origin what can happen. The Dogs played below standard on Saturday so will no doubt turn up ready for a big game, they love getting an early roll on with their pack and they have plenty of pace out wide. If we can be level, or no more than 6 down after 20mins, we will be in good position. The other key is the CROWD. This is OUR home game, we need a huge turnout of Eels fans for this one. I see no reason for there not being 40,000 there, considering there was 28K in Round 2, and both teams have been going well recently? We need to make it feel like a home game, it will definitely help the boys, but will the fans buy in to it is the question? Already pumped for this one
Only the ghosts of ANZ could keep parra fans away from this one.
Parramatta
Premiership: were $151, now $67
Top 4: were $67, now $34
Top 8: were $13, now $5
Just nice to see we are being noticed for positive things.
As discussed so far, the game plan for this vital match is pretty straight forward. It is about matching the Bulldogs forwards early on in terms of aggression and limiting the roll on they get. We need to have our completion rates 80+ and Sandows kicking game needs to be turning the doggies forwards around and keeping them pinned down in their own half. Also we need quick play the balls to tire out their forwards, this is where hopefully Peats is back because IDG is not up to it atm.The Titans appear to have worked out how to beat them and they have followed this structure
As noted the Doggies really gave it to us last time with a lot of injuries and this is because they hit harder when they play us so the forwards will know they are in a real battle. This is their acid test.
I believe BA will have the Boys mentally prepared for this battle and the forwards need to lay the foundation for Norman, Sandow and Semi to take advantage of it.
Go the Eels. Think Big. We can do it
If we can beat the Dogs forward pack, then we can beat any team.
The 1986 Grand Final Re-Live broadcast will be available on the Parramatta Eels website with commentary added by Dan Ginnane and Peter Sterling.
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