The Dyldam Parramatta Eels will host the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in tomorrow night’s do-or-die clash at Pirtek Stadium.
Parramatta are looking to bring their finals football hopes back into contention after suffering a nail-biting loss at the hands of the Canterbury Bulldogs last week.
On the other hand, the competition leaders have had a short turn around from their Sunday afternoon win over the Titans, finishing the match with a narrow 15-12 win over the Gold Coast.
The Eels are currently in 9th position on the NRL ladder with 26 points and have the opportunity to move into the top 8 with a win over Manly, whilst their counterparts look to hold onto their minor premiership spot.
Parramatta coach Brad Arthur has stressed the importance of tomorrow night’s match, though insists their controversial last-minute Round 3 loss at Brookvale won’t be an undermining factor.
“With every loss there is something that sticks in your mind but we can’t dwell on the past,” he said.
“We just need to work on a few areas to get our game right and move forward.”
The Blue and Gold will be welcoming back forwards Junior Paulo and Peni Terepo, with the players returning from a one week suspension and a knee injury, respectively.
Manly’s only change will be the return of centre Steve Matai after he missed last week through a shoulder injury.
The Sea Eagles have the second best defensive record so far this season and will be looking to shutdown the attacking prowess of Sandow, Hayne and Radradra in an atmosphere where they usually flourish.
Semi Radradra and Jarryd Hayne are in hot try-scoring form, with both of the Parramatta players leading the NRL for most tries scored at 18 a piece.
Manly’s last four victories have been won by 12 points or less, so expect a tightly-contested match that the Eels are desperate to win.
Parramatta will need a big turnout from the Blue and Gold Army who are an influential factor in helping the boys to get over the line against one of their traditional rivals.
The Eels kick off against the Sea Eagles at 7.45pm on Friday, August 22, at Pirtek Stadium. Gates open at 5.15pm, with the first 3,000 Eels fans into the ground receiving a Blue and Gold Army flag, so arrive early! Click through to get your tickets to the game.
