There is nothing like a win to send the optimists into overdrive. It must be admitted that the fans deserved a win--as did the players--because there have been so few this year.There appeared to be a good contingent of Eels fans at Penrith last night--great to see the young girls there, all excited and urging our boys on. A good crowd there too. In the circumstances it was a good win. A cold night at Penrith is no laughing matter. A local derby with the crowd against the Eels.The Penrith fullback said in the media that "we hate Parramatta." Sorry you busted a leg mate, but stick that defeat right up your nostrils. Eels facing five losses in a row. The referees did their usual demolition job on Parramatta, particularly in the second half. A good win up there last night.
I think Semi is the most natural footballer in the Eels. Give him the option and he will deliver. He needs good players inside of him. I thought Norman had his best attacking game since joining the Eels. Its not easy these days for 5/8 to make the breaks they once did years ago. That is because the defence is so much better these days and has the pattern to neutralise 5/8`s generally. Norman made two or three good breaks last night against a good defensive side. His defence was also acceptable. It will be interesting to see how Foran copes with the 1/2 back position to-night against the Cowboys given that some are saying that Foran/Norman will be 1/2, 5/8 next year.
Tepai had his best game for quiet some time. He was good late in the second half with one bust and nearly another and came up with some good hits just when they were needed. He could be regaining his confidence.
Reece Robinson had his best game to date as fullback. He too suggested he is more comfortable and more confident at full back. Wing ,however, is still his best position. Mau is my favourite player and did not disappoint. Other good performers too, Timmy, Crissy and Taka who carried an injury. All did well. I will take the glasses off when we front up to the Cowboys!
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Who would be your fullback daRKz?
yep almost had our pants pulled down with that soward kick in behind the line. The changing of Hoppa to wing in defence really isn't working as well as it should with that right edge being ripped to shreds last night.
I thought it's been pretty good. Of course it's going to be much harder to defend on your line when you have Sandow inside of you and you have Lewis Brown running at him and then Bryce Cartwright. Panthers looked a lot more dangerous with Cartwright in the halves than Soward.