Arthur backs halfback to get the job done

PARRAMATTA coach Brad Arthur has leapt to the defence of under-siege halfback Mitch Moses, revealing the playmaker ran for 10 kilometres last week in a crucial win over Brisbane.

Moses has copped heavy criticism in recent weeks for failing to spark the Eels’ attack as the team’s No. 7 general in the absence of injured fiveeighth Dylan Brown. Parramatta legends like Brett Kenny and Mick Cronin united earlier this week to launch a powerful defence of Moses.

Now his coach has jumped in, proclaiming that it is unwarranted for critics to single out one player in a team game.

Arthur used last round’s win over Brisbane as evidence that Moses’s effort is there despite claims that he isn’t doing enough to inspire his team.

“I don’t know, he ran for 10 kilometres last week,” Arthur said.

“And he had 64 touches. He made a couple of errors but he put himself in the game and I think it was his best effort for a long time.

“Hopefully, he is back at full fitness but to travel over 10 kilometres is a big effort.

“He will be better again this week and he will need to be for us but I think it (the criticism) has been a touch unfair. He is one player in a team of 17 and everyone needs to own their role.”

One of the main criticisms of Moses, which dates back seasons, is his inability to produce the big play under pressure.

Arthur acknowledged this side of his halfback’s game but he also believes his playmaker has handled the heat in the past.