NRL Round 18 Preview - Knights v Eels @ McDonald Jones Stadium

Newcastle Knights v Parramatta Eels @ McDonald Jones Stadium
 
Preview - The Knights host the Eels on Friday night in Newcastle, in the battle of two sides out of final’s contention. The Knights have won just one of their past eight games, after being beaten 36-16 by the Bulldogs at home, and will be looking to avoid a Bottom 4 finish after such a promising start to the season. The Eels had their hearts broken, conceding two tries in the final six minutes, to go down 22-18 to the Dragons in Wollongong, in a game they probably deserved to win on balance. 
 
Newcastle Knights’ Scouting Report - The Knights have some key changes, with halfback Mitchell Pearce back after missing nine games, pushing Jack Cogger to the reserves. Exciting youngster Nick Meaney debuts at fullback for Kalyn Ponga who is out injured, with  Danny Levi starting at hooker for the injured Slade Griffin (knee). 
 
Parramatta Eels’ Scouting Report - Brad Arthur has stuck pretty solid with his side after their strong display against the Dragons, with Tepai Moeroa returning on the bench for Will Smith the only change to the side. 
 
Verdict - Knights by 1-8 in a high scoring game

I think, with Mitchell Pearce back, the Knights can get a win here at home. I think the Eels would've really had the wind taken out of their sails by that last minute defeat against the Dragons. The Knights were fairly ordinary against the Bulldogs, so I'm expecting a reaction in front of those same fans who saw them fold a couple of weeks ago.