GLASS HALF-FULL FOR ELECTRIC EELS

The most polarising team when it comes to predicting their 2024 chances. Parramatta beat Penrith twice last year and still missed the finals.

They have the talent to compete with the top teams, but pressure will mount unless they can rediscover their consistency and focus.

BACKS

The Eels’ unsuccessful bid to recruit an X-factor shows they know where they need to try and improve their roster. Maika Sivo is still a force on the wing, but he can drift in and out of games. Will Penisini is an outstanding prospect, while Morgan Harper is a handy pick-up. The likes of Bailey Simonsson, Haze Dunster and Sean Russell need to take that next step and provide Parra with more individual strike out wide.

SPINE

Parramatta’s spine oozes class. The ever-reliable Clint Gutherson’s work rate and moments of brilliance drive the Eels. Their season will hinge on fiveeighth Dylan Brown and halfback Mitchell Moses, who have built one of the NRL’s best halves combinations.

Hooker is the question mark, with Joey Lussick and Brendan Hands battling for the position, and young Matt Arthur still coming through the ranks. But, if they can deliver quick, sharp ball to the playmakers, the Eels’ spine has the potential to tear apart opposition defences.

FORWARDS

Parramatta’s pack is equal to any in the competition. Junior Paulo, Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Shaun Lane and Ryan Matterson are proven top liners, while J’maine Hopgood has emerged as a durable tackling machine with a terrific offload. If the likes of Joe Ofahengaue, Ofahiki Ogden and Wiremu Greig can provide solid back-up, and recruit Kelma Tuilagi proves a shrewd buy, the pack will be the bedrock on which the Eels build their finals return.

Dylan Brown was outstanding before being suspended for an off-field incident last year. The Eels missed his left-edge combination with Shaun Lane. A strong ball-running five-eighth with the ability to take on the line. He has now emerged as a real threat to either set up scoring chances or finish them himself. While still only 23, Brown’s performances will define the Eels’ fate.