The Dyldam Parramatta Eels are eager to get back on the field and take on the Cronulla Sharks on Monday night, to turn around the disappointment of the previous two losses.
After some inconsistent performances the past few weeks and the Rep Round to rest up some niggling injuries, the side is ready to show an improved attitude in both attack and defence.
“The way we played against the Cowboys wasn’t the standard we set ourselves, and we’re pretty keen to right the wrongs we turned up with,” Dyldam Parramatta Eels forward David Gower said.
The game also holds extra importance as the sides come together to celebrate the life of Johnny Mannah who was a Member of both clubs before passing away in 2013.
“We’re very honoured and very humbled that we get to relive Johnny’s memories and we’re very thankful to both clubs for keeping his legacy alive," Dyldam Parramatta Eels Co-Captain Tim Mannah said.
"But at the same time both teams have a game to play, and both want to get the win.”
At the completion of the game, the Parramatta jerseys and the full playing kit of Tim Mannah and Sharks Captain Paul Gallen will be available for auction, with all proceeds going to The Mannah Foundation.
Click here to find out more about the Johnny Mannah Cup.
After being forced out of Representative duties last week due to injury, Jarryd Hayne (shoulder), Nathan Peats (knee, ankle), Tim Mannah (eardrum) will all return to the Blue and Gold fit and champing at the bit to be back on the field.
“It’s been a tough start to the season, and I’ve been carrying a few niggles for a couple of weeks, so the week off has down me a world of good,” Eels hooker Nathan Peats said.
“The Sharks are always a good battle, just because they’re on four points doesn’t mean anything, they’re a great side.”
“A lot of their stars are back now, so they’re looking for a good win and we are too.”
The Sharks will also be boosted by the return of Kangaroo Luke Lewis, who has been named to play at five-eighth in his first game since an injury in the World Cup last October.
Despite bouncing back from two losses, the Eels have won their last three games against the Sharks at Pirtek Stadium, and are looking to continue their streak of five wins in front of the Blue and Gold Army at the ground.
The Sharks are a quality side that belies their position on the ladder, with just four points separating them from a position in the top eight, and are coming off the back of a victory over the Penrith Panthers.
Click here to buy tickets and cheer on the Blue and Gold on Monday night!
Dyldam Parramatta Eels Round 9:
1. Jarryd Hayne (c)
2. Semi Radradra
3. Will Hopoate
4. Willie Tonga
5. Ken Sio
6. Corey Norman
7. Chris Sandow
8. Tim Mannah (c)
9. Nathan Peats
10. Darcy Lussick
11. Pauli Pauli
12. Manu Ma’u
13. Joseph Paulo
Interchange:
14. David Gower
15. Peni Terepo
16. Fuifui Moimoi
17. Mitch Allgood
Cronulla Sharks Round 9:
1. Michael Gordon
2. Sosaia Feki
3. Blake Ayshford
4. Ricky Leutele
5. Beau Ryan
6. Luke Lewis
7. Jeff Robson
8. Andrew Fifita
9. John Morris
10. Bryce Gibbs
11. Anthony Tupou
12. Wade Graham
13. Paul Gallen (c)
Interchange:
14. Isaac De Gois
15. Chris Heighington
16. Tinarau Arona
17. Siosaia Vave
20. Michael Lichaa
