Roar Guru
The Penrith Panthers win this one today, scoring 2 late tries to outdo the Eels.
REPORT: CARTWRIGHT WINS IT ON SIREN FOR PANTHERS
Both sides went back and forth at each other all day, in somewhat hot conditions. Both back lines saw plenty of ball and both forward packs ran hard all day.
The first half was slightly more dominated from the Eels. Possession was close, but they dominated field position. Going into half time 6-6 was really good for Penrith’s confidence and it showed in the second half.
The Eels and fans thought they had it won, having gone up 18-12 with less then 10 to go. 2 late tries from Mansour and Cartwright saw Penrith deserved winners today.
Isaac De Gois was great for Parramatta, so too were Michael Jennings and Brad Takairangi. The centres were very dangerous and caused problems all day.
In the end, Bryce Cartwright was the difference, he was dangerous in attack and provided much of the spark for the Panthers. Matt Moylan will be better for the run, his touch in attack, especially to set up Mansour’s try, was him at his best.
Final score
Eels 18
Panthers 20
The ‘battle of the west’ kicks off this Sunday, with the Parramatta Eels hosting the Penrith Panthers from Pirtek Stadium. This should be an absolute belter, so join The Roar from 4pm (AEDT).
Brad Arthur’s men were impressive last start, winning 8-0 and showing the steel in defence that has been lacking in previous Eels outfits.
Kieran Foran’s directional play and leadership has no doubt assisted Parra, and he needs another big outing if his side are to win today.
The Eels have one change from last week’s tight fixture, having added Peni Terepo to their side. Terepo was initially added as cover for Manu Ma’u’s possible suspension, but while Ma’u was cleared, Tim Mannah (shoulder blade) is now out injured.
The Panthers welcome back star fullback and captain Matt Moylan for this first game of 2016. Their spark in attack has been missing and Moylan’s inclusion comes at a crucial time, with Penrith sitting at 1-3 for the season. However all three losses combine for a total of 12 points, so they have competed well in all games.
Bryce Cartwright is in doubt with a thumb complaint, after dislocating it last weekend. Elijah Taylor and Jeremy Latimore have been named as cover, but I suspect Taylor will get the nod if Cartwright misses out.
The two sides played out a tight trial early in the year. The Eels won that one, with Michael Jennings scoring against his former club, expect the flyer to be on song today.
Prediction
It will be close, but the Eels should just scrape home in front of a near sell-out home-crowd.
Eels by 4.
This is the game of the round, both sides have been defending well and giving their all, so Join The Roar for all the action, and be sure to give your thoughts below as the match unfolds.