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5. Prediction

2nd

I hear the comments lighting up as people laugh at this prediction. Well ... possibly, but last year the Eels finished in the top four despite many believing it was well beyond their playing roster.

Why 2nd you ask? I'm backing Mitch Moses to have a huge season and lead the side to a top two finish. He and Dylan Brown have an almost perfect combination. Brown outshone his bigger profile halves partner last year and has rep footy in his near future.

I expect both Maika Sivo and Blake Ferguson to have far improved seasons in 2021. Ferguson especially fell far below his lofty expectations and was reportedly told he could leave if a new club could be found.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 29: Blake Ferguson of the Eels celebrates scoring a try during the round three NRL match between the Parramatta Eels and the Sydney Roosters at ANZ Stadium on March 29, 2019 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

A lot will depend on whether or not King Gutho can live up to his 2020 heroics. If he can, and I believe he will, then the Eels' 1, 6 and 7 can do amazing things. If not, then there may be too much pressure on the halves.

Opacic and Oldfield will battle it out to replace Jennings. Waqa Blake was huge in 2020 but will need to build on this yet again.

Personally I don't see the Eels forward pack struggling under the new rules but almost everyone I speak with has the opposing opinion.

If the Eels big men fall victim and can't lay the platform, then the Eels are in a dog fight for the eight. If they can reproduce the stats of their 2020 selves, then watch out.

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1 COMMENT

  1. I think we will struggle with the pace of the game.
    The powers that be have gone to far over the top to try to speed the game up. It’s not Union or AFL.
    We have big powerful forwards, awesome halves and a stellar backline but will struggle and finish 6th.
    Top 4 will be Bunnies, Roosters, Storm and Raiders with the surprise packet being the Titans in 5th.
    The Panthers and Cowboys will round out the top 8.
    The Broncos and Dragons will battle it out for the spoon.
    The GF will be Bunnies v Raiders with the Bunnies taking it out.