MONDAY, JUNE 10th, 2024 ACCOR STADIUM, SYDNEY
Eels Seek Back-to-Back Wins
The Parramatta Eels aim to secure consecutive victories for the first time this season as they gear up to face the Bulldogs in the King’s Birthday clash.
Key Players Return for Eels
The return of captain Clint Gutherson and halfback Mitchell Moses helped the Eels end their five-game losing streak with a 34-22 win over the Sharks on Thursday night.
Parramatta, having enjoyed an extended break before Monday’s game, hopes to maintain their momentum at Accor Stadium.
Bulldogs Riding High After Victory
The Bulldogs, however, will pose a significant challenge, buoyed by a 32-2 victory over the Knights on Friday night.
This win marked Canterbury’s first road victory of the season, achieved even without their Origin stars.
Injury Blow for Bulldogs
However, the victory was marred by Josh Addo-Carr’s hamstring strain, which will sideline him for 8-10 weeks.
All attention will be on Wednesday night’s Origin opener, with both teams hoping their stars emerge unscathed.
Origin Impact on Player Availability
With a five-day turnaround from Origin One, captain Stephen Crichton is likely to be fit to play, and five-eighth Matt Burton should also be available as he’s the 18th man for the Blues. Toby Sexton is the preferred halfback this week, while Drew Hutchison remains in the wider reserves. Lipoi Hopoi is set for another run off the bench following his debut in Round 13.
Line-Up Changes for Both Teams
For the Eels, Blaize Talagi is the man to replace Bailey Simonsson (knee) in the backline, with the rookie named at centre and Sean Russell moving one position out to the wing.
Similarly for the Bulldogs, the extended turnaround after the Origin series opener means J’maine Hopgood is well-positioned to back up for the Eels, and he is currently named to start. Ryan Matterson has been included in the wider reserves as he continues to recover from illness.
Team Line-Ups
Bulldogs
1. Connor Tracey 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Bronson Xerri 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Blake Wilson 6. Matt Burton 7. Toby Sexton 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Samuel Hughes 11. Jacob Preston 12. Jaeman Salmon 13. Kurt Mann, 14. Bailey Hayward 15. Josh Curran 16. Kurtis Morrin 17. Lipoi Hopoi , 19. Poasa Faamausili 20. Blake Taaffe 21. Jake Turpin 22. Drew Hutchison 23. Harry Hayes
Eels
1. Clinton Gutherson 2. Maika Sivo 3. Will Penisini 4. Blaize Talagi 5. Sean Russell 6. Dylan Brown 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard 9. Brendan Hands 10. Junior Paulo , 11. Kelma Tuilagi 12. Bryce Cartwright 13. J’maine Hopgood , 14. Joe Ofahengaue 15. Shaun Lane 16. Makahesi Makatoa 17. Wiremu Greig, 18. Daejarn Asi 19. Morgan Harper 20. Joey Lussick 21. Ryan Matterson 22. Luca Moretti
Referee, Peter Gough, Touch Judges, Dave Munro, Todd Smith, Bunker, Kasey Badger
Key Stats and Milestones
The Bulldogs are the only team still undefeated in home games in 2024.
The Eels have won eight of their last nine games against the Bulldogs.
Bulldogs back-rower Jacob Preston has scored four tries in his last three games.
Eels fullback Clint Gutherson is set to make his 200th NRL appearance.
The Bulldogs are aiming for three consecutive wins for the first time since 2019.
Prediction.
If the Bulldogs can shut down and frustrate the Eels’ backline, they might have enough points to secure another victory at Accor Stadium, where they are unbeaten in four home games this year. The Eels will start as favorites with the bookies, but the Bulldogs’ improved defense and Burton’s kicking game could make the difference.
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