French out for Eels in giant clash

PARRAMATTA are taking no chances with fullback Bevan French as they turn their attention to a first top-four finish in 12 years.

The Eels are guaranteed to move into the top four with a win over last-placed Newcastle tonight but will have to do it without their No.1 (hamstring).

The hype is building in Sydney’s west after Brad Arthur’s side strung together six wins in a row – the first time they have done so since they made the grand final in 2009.

The Eels haven’t finished in the top four since their minor premiership win under coach Brian Smith in 2005.

“It’s exciting, you can sense the excitement around Parramatta, you can sense the excitement in the playing group,” Arthur said.

Will Smith or Josh Hoffman will replace French while the Knights will be missing fullback Nathan Ross (back).