The Pirtek Parramatta Eels are out to prove to their devoted Blue and Gold Army that they have not given up hope yet, with the expected return of fullback and co-captain Jarryd Hayne into the side to boost them ahead of Round 17 against the Manly Sea Eagles on Monday night at Brookvale Oval.
Hayne will undergo a fitness test before the game to ensure he's right to play in what will be his only hit-out on the field before the deciding State of Origin match on July 17.
The Sea Eagles have won nine out of the past twelve matches played against the Eels, but the Eels are hoping to break their losing streak at Manly's fortress.
Utility Joseph Paulo admits it will be a very tough challenge.
"Theyve had a great year; theyre really solid in their defence. I know it will be a tough challenge for us, but were just going to turn up on Monday and anything could happen.
All eyes will be on Eels forward Darcy Lussick coming up against his former club for the first time, as well as former Eel Justin Horo playing the Blue and Gold for the first time since switching clubs.
The return of Brett Stewart, Anthony Watmough and Daly Cherry-Evans was a boost to the Manly side in the last round, with them looking to break a mid-season slump of three consecutive losses.
Kick-off is at 7pm at Brookvale Oval.
Click here to buy tickets to support the Blue and Gold Army at Brookvale Oval.
Hayne will undergo a fitness test before the game to ensure he's right to play in what will be his only hit-out on the field before the deciding State of Origin match on July 17.
The Sea Eagles have won nine out of the past twelve matches played against the Eels, but the Eels are hoping to break their losing streak at Manly's fortress.
Utility Joseph Paulo admits it will be a very tough challenge.
"Theyve had a great year; theyre really solid in their defence. I know it will be a tough challenge for us, but were just going to turn up on Monday and anything could happen.
All eyes will be on Eels forward Darcy Lussick coming up against his former club for the first time, as well as former Eel Justin Horo playing the Blue and Gold for the first time since switching clubs.
The return of Brett Stewart, Anthony Watmough and Daly Cherry-Evans was a boost to the Manly side in the last round, with them looking to break a mid-season slump of three consecutive losses.
Kick-off is at 7pm at Brookvale Oval.
Click here to buy tickets to support the Blue and Gold Army at Brookvale Oval.
