Dyldam Parramatta Eels hooker Cody Nelson today fronted the media to discuss his return to the Eels NRL side and the impact of the Round Seventeen loss to the top-of-the-table Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks will have on mentality of the Blue and Gold squad.
Heading into the R18 clash against the Sydney Roosters at Pirtek Stadium on Friday night (8 July), Nelson remained positive despite not coming away with the two points on Saturday night.
“It was really good. Obviously the result didn’t go our way,” Nelson said of his return to the NRL, his first first grade appearance since Round 16, 2015.
“I was really happy, I’ve worked really hard over the last twelve months and especially through the preseason this year.”
“To get my shot again was really good.” Nelson added.
Spending the entire 2016 season playing for the Wentworthville Magpies Intrust Super Premiership NSW side, Nelson remained comfortable with the increased speed and intensity, despite his limited minutes on the field.
“I was pretty comfortable” Nelson revealed.
“I’ve worked really hard and my fitness is probably the best it’s ever been. It felt like I slotted in really well.”
And whilst disappointed to not come away with the two points, Nelson said the side’s focus had switched to the upcoming clash against the Roosters and their need to win.
“It’s hard to say. The Sharks are a quality outfit and down at Shark Park, they are very hard to beat,” Nelson commented on the weekend’s loss.
“We’re week to week, we just go on.” Nelson added.
“We’ve got to win this weekend.”
The Dyldam Parramatta Eels take on the Sydney Roosters at Pirtek Stadium on Friday 8 July, kick off at 7:50pm.
