The return of Corey Norman failed to spark the Eels into action last week however they'll need their star half in full flight as they come up against Gareth Widdop and the Dragons.

Norman's return meant the in-form Clint Gutherson was shifted to the centres as the former's pairing with Mitchell Moses will prove crucial to the Eels finals chances.

Kirisome Auva'a starts on the wing in place of Nathan Davis in the only change to the side to take on a Josh Dugan and Tyson Frizell-less Dragons.

The Dragons were disappointing last week against the Dogs, and having lost two out of their last five, their hot start to 2017 could be forgotten should they continue to slide.

They're still well entrenched in the top eight for the time being at least, which may buy them some time to rediscover their early season form. Jason Nightingale reverts to fullback this week as the Dragons look to rediscover their attacking flair.

The Eels sit on the cusp the eight and will start as favourites as they look to bridge the gap in the second half of the season. As an important game in the context of both teams season, this is proving to be a cracker of a contest.

Dragons by 2.