Parramatta Eels fans are counting down the days until Friday’s blockbuster clash against the Manly Sea Eagles at CommBank Stadium.
Round 11 will be the team’s first Friday night game for the season and the Blue & Gold faithful are expected to pour through the gates and create an atmosphere worthy of the clash.
The Eels go into the clash in sixth spot, after going down to the Roosters last week while the Sea Eagles are just outside the eight in ninth.
Here are five things you need to know about the clash.
Friday Footy Fest
The first Friday Footy Fest of 2022 is upon us!
We’re celebrating the biggest blockbuster matches at CommBank Stadium.
First up is the battle of traditional rivals - that has become a heated and intense clash into the modern era.
Arrive early to enjoy entertainment in the precinct including Kids PARRAdise, a live DJ, face painting, airbrush tattoos, Taubmans live painting and the food village.
Gutho’s 150th NRL Game
The King will clock up 150 NRL games against his old Club, the Manly Sea Eagles, on Friday night.
After suffering two ACL injuries early in his career, it feels like the milestone has been a long time coming.
Gutherson played just five games in three seasons at Manly, before coming across to the Eels in 2016.
The captain is a fan favourite and much-loved member of the team and nothing would be sweeter than celebrating the milestone with a win over his former Club.
Head-to-Head Stats
The Eels and Sea Eagles never disappoint in their clashes each year.
The Sea Eagles got the upper hand on both occasions last year, with the Blue and Gold out for revenge.
This is how each team stands so far this season:
Wins
Eels 60%
Sea Eagles 50%
Set Completion
Eels 82%
Sea Eagles 78%
Tackle Efficiency
Eels 86.9%
Sea Eagles 86.6%
Average Points Scored
Eels 25
Sea Eagles 19
Average Points Conceded
Eels 21
Sea Eagles 23
Teams
Marata Niukore returns from injury against the Sea Eagles.
His return pushes Bryce Cartwright to the reserves.
Ryan Matterson will start at lock and Nathan Brown shifts to the bench.
Ben Trbojevic is out for the Sea Eagles with a shoulder injury.
Morgan Harper replaces him at centre.
How to be there
Don’t miss your chance to be at the Friday night blockbuster.
Tickets are flying out the door, so be sure to pre-purchase your tickets to witness every moment.
Key Timings:
5:15pm – Gates Open
5:30pm - Kick Off: Knock on Effect NSW Cup: Parramatta Eels v Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles
7:55pm - Kick Off: NRL – Parramatta Eels v Manly Sea Eagles
