The Dyldam Parramatta Eels take on the Cronulla Sharks at Pirtek Stadium on Saturday 29 August for their Round 25 clash, with the two sides playing for the third annual Johnny Mannah Cup.
Previewing the game thanks to Unibet, Eels Assistant Coach Pete Gentle says the Blue and Gold will be looking forward to returning home and aiming up in a big challenge against an experienced Sharks forward pack.
“We are excited to be back at Pirtek Stadium. It has been a long time since we have been here so we are looking forward to,” Gentle said.
“We are looking forward to returning to the action in front of the Blue and Gold army. It has been a good week and we have been looking forward to coming back home, it feels like we have been on the road forever.”
With the Sharks boasting a tough and experienced forward pack, Gentle says that whilst the clash will be a big test for the young Blue and Gold, they have been up for the challenge on weekly basis.
“We had done a pretty good job in the forwards for most of the year, it doesn’t matter whom we come up against, the boys aim up so it will be another big challenge,” Gentle said.
“They have a lot of experience and we do have a few players out but the guys we are putting in, everyone is contributing and pulling their weight and they know what is expected of them,” Gentle added.
“It doesn’t matter who we come up against, it doesn’t change.”
The annual fixture honours former Eels and Sharks player Jon Mannah, and supports the work of the Mannah Foundation, assisting young people from all walks of life and Gentle said the Blue and Gold will be looking to keep the Johnny Mannah Cup in the special occasion for all involved.
“With all the players, the club, the supporters, everyone, it is something we would love to win again. We are the current holders and we intend on keeping it.”
Get Tickets to the Game
We are excited to put on a huge day of all three grades of footy at Parramatta’s Pirtek Stadium, so please join us as we #celebratejohnny!
As part of the game day experience, get your hands on a limited edition Mannah Foundation T Shirt at this Saturday's Johnny Mannah Cup at Pirtek Stadium, with all proceeds going to the Mannah Foundation! A limited run of shirts will be available on game day from the Eels Store (opposite Parramatta Leagues Club), the Eels merchandise marquee, and the Eels Store outlet at gates G/H at Pirtek Stadium. Shirts are $30 and all proceeds will go towards the Mannah Foundation.
Gates open at 10:30am with the NYC kick off at 10:40am, NSW Cup 12:40pm kick off and NRL kickoff at 3pm.
