NRL Round 14 Preview and Prediction - Parramatta Eels v North Queensland Cowboys @ Darwin
Parramatta Eels v North Queensland Cowboys
Preview - Parramatta are gunning for a 3rd straight win when they take a home game to Darwin against the Cowboys on Saturday night. With both Clubs on 7 wins and clinging to 7th and 8th spot respectively on the table, it's a crucial match up between two sides on the borderline of the finals heading into the second half of the season. The Eels produced a patchy, but ultimately very brave, 32-24 home victory over the Warriors after losing 2 forwards in the opening 15 minutes of the game. The Cowboys grinded out another impressive 20-8 victory over Queensland rivals, the Titans, as they played without Johnathan Thurston for a 3rd straight game last week. The Cowboys' defence has stepped up a notch in the past few weeks, conceding just 40 in their last 3 games, at an average of just over 13 points per game.
History - The Eels dominated the Cowboys earlier this season, winning 26-6 in North Queensland. The Eels have yet to lose a game in Darwin, and the Cowboys have won the only previous game they have played up there.
Parramatta Eels' Scouting Report - The Eels have been forced into a change in the outside backs with veteran winger Josh Hoffman out with a knee injury, being replaced by Nathan Davis. Captain Tim Mannah is also fit to return after missing a week with a knee injury. Interestingly, the Eels star halfback has been named on an extended bench and, if he plays, that could force Clint Gutherson to fullback, moving Bevan French to the wing. Gutherson has been outstanding in the past 2 weeks and is quickly become one of the most high quality, versatile players in the NRL.
North Queensland Cowboys' Scouting Report - The Cowboys are in a similar boat to the Eels in that they have named their halfback Johnathan Thurston on an extended bench, as he looks to make his return from a nagging shoulder injury. Thurston will be desperate to prove his fitness for Origin 2 by getting a Club game under his belt and getting through unscathed. If Thurston does not make it back on the field, Kyle Laybutt will make his NRL debut in the five eight rule with Ray Thompson ruled out with a knee injury. Origin centre Justin O'Neill is back with Javid Bowen making way.
Verdict - Parramatta by 1-6 in a high quality game
I think Parramatta can keep the roll going here and beat the Cowboys in what might be considered an upset of sorts. Last week the Eels had every reason to roll over and lose to the Warriors, given the fact they were reduced to 15 men so early in the game and against a side full of attacking strike power. The Cowboys have done really well without Thurston the last 3 weeks, however they will come up against a really big and aggressive forward pack in the Eels which is something they will have to match.