Lyon ready for angry Eels
By Dean Ritchie
July 27, 2007 12:00am
MANLY centre Jamie Lyon last night spoke of the "hostile" treatment he will endure by returning to Parramatta this weekend for the first time in 1231 days.
Lyon has not been to Parramatta Stadium since March 15, 2004, when he walked out on the club.
The return of Lyon gives Sunday's match an extra edge as the 60-year rivals prepare to battle yet again.
Eels chief executive Denis Fitzgerald added to match's hype by saying: "Parramatta fans have a long memories so they're sure to give Jamie a warm reception."
Lyon is aware he will be jeered constantly by what should be a near-20,000 sell-out for a match which pits second-placed Manly against third-placed Parramatta.
In his only interview this week, Lyon told The Daily Telegraph: "It all happened a few years ago now but I'm sure they (Parramatta fans) are still dirty.
"The fans more than the players will give it to me.
"They'll be pretty keen for the game. The memories (of his exit) will be there for the fans.
"I'm expecting it and won't be surprised if they boo me.
"It's always a hostile place out there - it's been that way for years. It should be close to a full house so that will add to the excitement.
"But I can't let it get to me. I've just got to focus on my footy.
"We've knocked off few big sides so it should be a massive game. I'm more excited than anything else."
Parramatta have established themselves as genuine premiership contenders in recent weeks, Manly doing the same earlier this year.
It should be a classic contest.
"I think they'll give the comp a real shake," Lyon said.
"They have unearthed some great talent in Krisnan Inu, Jarryd Hayne and Feleti Mateo. Put them with their established players and it's scary what they can do.
"We haven't been going too well of late. We had a good win over the Tigers a few weeks back but have been scratchy since.
"People talk about Melbourne's consistency and that is what we are after."
Parramatta captain Nathan Cayless has been granted indefinite leave following the death of his mother Marlene on Wednesday night.
Eels players will wear black armbands to mark their respect.
