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The Parramatta Eels finally have cause for optimism this season and should start favourites when they host the struggling Sydney Roosters tonight. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 5.30pm AEDT.
What a difference a month makes in rugby league. It was barely four weeks ago that the Roosters thrashed the Eels in Round 2 – a result that once again raised severe doubts about Parramatta’s ability to shed the wooden spoon.
Ever since that defeat however, the Eels have turned a new corner and are currently playing some outstanding football.
A controversial loss to Manly, followed by back to back victories over Penrith and Brisbane suddenly has Parramatta thinking of finals football yet again.
For the first time since 2009, the Eels are playing with plenty of energy and skill in attack and defence – they should cause the Roosters plenty of problems tonight.
Chris Sandow was electric against the Broncos last week, making three line-breaks before kicking a clutch 40-metre field goal to guide the Eels home in a cracking contest up at Suncorp Stadium.
Throw in the solid performances of Nathan Peats, Jarryd Hayne, Corey Norman, Semi Radradra and Will Hopoate and Parramatta now possess the attacking class to trouble any team in the NRL.
The Roosters on the other hand are in trouble. Their performances have left a lot to be desired this season and really need to produce something special to beat Parramatta tonight.
Sydney’s forwards are really struggling to punch through the advantage line and this cripples any chances the Roosters have of mounting any attacking plays.
In their last two defeats against Manly and Canterbury, the Roosters lost the battle for territory and possession convincingly and need to start playing with the form that led them to last year’s premiership.
While the Roosters certainly have the names to beat the Eels, Parramatta at the moment have all the momentum and a big home crowd should see them secure their third straight win.
Eels by 8.