The Dyldam Parramatta Eels have the opportunity to move to second place on the NRL ladder when they take on the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs this Sunday.
With both teams missing players due to State of Origin, it will be a hard-fought match with the new additions in both starting sides looking to impress their coaches and grind out a valuable victory.
Following an impressive 18-16 win over the in-form Cowboys last week, the Eels will be looking for their fourth win from five games when they travel to ANZ Stadium.
On the other side of the tape, Canterbury will be looking to break their two-game losing streak after a 32-10 loss to Manly in Brookvale last round.
With the loss of Hayne and Hopoate the Eels will have Ken Sio filling the fullback role, opening the door for Ryan Morgan in the centres, while Willie Tonga has returned from QLD Origin camp to be available for the match.
On a positive note, Isaac De Gois will be making his debut for the Blue and Gold in place of the injured Nathan Peats, becoming the 763rd player to pull on the Parramatta jersey.
“Isaac will give us a bit of experience out of dummy-half. Luke did a good job for us on the weekend just gone but it’s not his preferred position,” Arthur said.
“Vai gets an opportunity with Will Hoppa being away, so I’m looking forward to seeing how we back up from the weekend.”
The Round 14 clash will kick-off at 3pm following Holden Cup which kicks off at 12:45pm.
