The NRL season is heating up in 2017 with just three games separating second and eighth on the table.
The big games continue this weekend with 1 v 2 and 3 v 4 along with 6 v 8 in a blockbuster round of rugby league.
Parramatta Eels v Newcastle Knights
ANZ Stadium, Friday Night
For the first time since 2015, the Knights come into the round on the back of successive wins which is sure to have the players and fan base brimming with confidence.
The only problem is this week, they take on an Eels side that's won six straight, placing them on the cusp of the top four with the reigning premiers in their sights. A win for the Eels this week will put them into the top four and it can't get any more enticing than that.
In an added boost, Bevan French has been named despite coming off with a hamstring complaint last week while Tepai Moeroa returns to strengthen their back row.
The Knights have named Dane Gagai at the back to replace Nathan Ross while Shaun Kenny-Dowall returns on the wing. They were very impressive last week against the Warriors and while the high-flying Eels are in a different class, a little bit of confidence can go a long way.
The Saifiti brothers have continued their strong form while 20-year-old Brock Lamb has also continued to flourish at five-eighth in 2017.
Coming up against Mitchell Moses and Corey Norman will be a big test for the youngster, as the Eels duo is in sublime form. Moses has laid on seven try assists in their winning run as the Eels are clicking on all cylinders in both attack and defence.
The Eels are heavy favourites and deservedly so, and will be ruthless come Friday night as they look to continue their surge towards September.
Eels by 12.
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