They occupied the bottom two spots on the ladder in 2018, but Manly and Parramatta both mounted incredible charges to the finals this season.
While they both saw their seasons come to a close with semi-final losses on the weekend, both Des Hasler and Brad Arthur will be immensely proud of the turnarounds they orchestrated for their clubs in 2019.
The question on Sea Eagles and Eels fans lips, however, will be whether they can back those stunning seasons up next year.
We had Roar NRL expert Tim Gore on the Game of Codes podcast to look at what both clubs need to do to take the next step in 2020, as well as who’s more likely to get back to the semis in 2020.
Listen to the debate:
Manly looked to be in dire straits as a club when Trent Barrett departed at the end of last season, with the ex-coach claiming the club’s facilities were well below NRL standard. Parramatta also looked to be in strife last season when they completely fell off the wagon following a top four appearance the previous season.
If a week is a long time in football, a year is even longer.
Visit our Game of Codes hub to catch the full episode and be sure to subscribe and review on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or wherever else you’re listening.
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Roar Rookie
It could go either way for the clubs do you think the Raiders can back it up also
Tom G
Roar Rookie
I agree completely. If manly can stay fit they could go all the way now they have a coach instead of the Lowes catalogue model and outdoor furniture enthusiast Barrett. On the subject of ordinary coaches Arthur has had half a decade with the Eels and they are no better placed than when he arrived
Forty Twenty
Roar Rookie
I almost choked on my marshmallow when I heard that RCG will add some starch to the Eels. Manly looked to be in dire straits to many but I was always happy at the progression of the roster over the last few years off a very low base. We had DCE (who we almost lost) and the Turbo brothers and not much else and the recruitment has gone under the radar to most. I must admit I didn't rate Parker too highly last year after praising him a couple of years back but it's been a decent roster for a couple of years I believe. I didn't rate the Eels at all and they did much better than I thought possible. The young spine players appear crucial to the future and best of luck to them , the game needs players like brown to take off and fulfill his talent.
Rob
Guest
Parra could go either way. Think Manu Mau could be a big loss for them. If Matterson ends up leaving the Tigers, Parra should do everything they can to get him to the club. A lot is going to depend on whether or not RCG can get back to his form from a few years back. If he does then Parra are a lock for the 8.
Paul
Roar Guru
I think Manly has more of chance than Parra does. I'm not convinced at all about Arthur as a coach, nor about the way they go about playing, especially away from home. Manly looked good for the most part this year and with guys back from injury, should be finals contenders again in 2020.
Harvey Wilson
Roar Rookie
Manly will be there again. DCE is getting better and like most if injuries to key players stay away that will be in the 8 for sure.