Eels’ terrible performance attributed to a single decision
Unbelievably, there are those on the internet boldly asserting that Parramatta was a key player in last year’s Grand Final.
And shockingly, they’re correct.
Considering their regression to a state of agony, it would be easy to forget that the Eels were the runners-up last season.
But it requires remembering: regardless of how believable Parramatta’s success might feel in the moment, it’s a deviation from the norm.
The premiership drought has now entered its 37th year for the team, leaving many questioning the Eels‘ motivation.
The way the team has regressed from 2022 to 2023 has been spot on thus far.
Just when it appears the club has tapped into its vast potential, reality strikes, and they swiftly and clumsily tumble down the ranks, much like a clumsy RCG knee.
More often than not, Parramatta’s problems are ingrained and physiological, rooted far deeper than Gutho’s diligent efforts can combat.
These issues usually originate from mismanagement at the administrative level or the retirement of Sterlo. However, this time, they have undermined their hard-fought confidence from within.
The decision to let go of Reed Mahoney and Isaiah Papali’i, which was followed by the costly acquisition of the older and less sturdy Josh Hodgson, was the catalyst for this unfortunate turn of events.
Dylan Brown‘s extended suspension and the prolonged negotiation of Mitchell Moses‘ contract, which became so drawn out it needed a countdown clock, aggravated the situation.
In this dismal season of self-imposed obstacles for the Eels, nothing comes close to Ryan Matterson‘s suspension as one of the most unexpected blunders.
A deeply religious man, Matterson chose suspension over a trivial $3000 fine in his first month.
With the Eels losing their first five games by narrow margins, not only did Matterson’s decision seem an utter mistake in retrospect, it also hinted that perhaps God didn’t get the memo or is a secret Dogs fan.
The state of disarray exemplified by Matterson’s decision perfectly symbolises the Eels‘ overall condition.
A brighter future was within reach before last year’s Grand Final, but a crushing defeat within 80 minutes sent them spiralling, and they have yet to bounce back.
This continues the club’s existential decline, having weathered two international financial crises, numerous prime ministers, and seven waves of feminism without a single trophy.
Despite its financial might and allure, the club is engulfed in deep distress.
Parramatta hasn’t celebrated a premiership since 1986, the longest dry spell of any NRL team.
Hence, Eels fans cling to the past, longing for the days when the squad’s superstars ruled roost, and not just Sterling or Brett Kenny.
Replies
I think we are going to see a lot exactly like this mate. We are about to become bait, for the journalists. Not much else comes out of the Eels these days, through management or coaches so the journalists are going to have a field day at our expense.
I just read Green Eels article written by Dane Elderidge, its nearly exactly the same as this one with some differing words but similar sentiment. One in the same writer or plagerism.
You can blame Muttman for his blog from last week, which covered what's been written in these articles today LOL.
But to be fair, do you honnestly think these journos would write anything about the other Sydney clubs. Parra stories sell more papers and create more clicks than any other. I would do the same to be honnest.
Sorry 😬