The Dyldam Parramatta Eels have come away with a 22-8 victory over the Penrith Panthers in their final pre-season trial.
Speaking after the game, Blue and Gold new recruit and outside back Clint Gutherson was pleased with his first 80 minute performance since his season ending injury in Round One of the 2015 NRL Telstra Premiership.
“I was a bit tired, it was my first full hit out in about a year,” Gutherson said.
“It was good to be out there, I was a bit rusty and made a few knock ons but that’s what trials are for.”
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Gutherson played a crucial role in the Eels victory, coming away with a four pointer and a conversion, as the outside back moved into the halves when Corey Norman and Kieran Foran were rotated to the bench for the final 20 minutes of the clash.
“It was a bit hot all day, and when it started raining, it got a bit humid and the ball got a bit slippery so there was a few mistakes and a few penalties. We will try fix that up over the next couple of weeks and then head out for Round One.” Gutherson said.
“I thought we were a bit slow at the start, but at the end of that first end into the second half we were more urgent for the ball.”
With Gutherson unlucky not to score his second four pointer the night, the Panthers defence prying the football loose close to the line, the outside back was hopeful to be named in the Blue and Gold Round One season opener against the Brisbane Broncos.
“Hopefully I get in the team for Round One and we can get a good start to the year,” Gutherson said.
“Anywhere I can get a spot, I just have to fit in anywhere. We have a bunch of superstars out there so I just have to fit in anywhere and do my best for the team.”
The Dyldam Parramatta Eels will kick off the 2016 season against the Brisbane Broncos on Thursday, March 3, at home at Pirtek Stadium in Parramatta.