Round 8 vs Eels

[slippery5]

Edit:
Rava must have learnt shit loads during the week to earn his spot back.
Good to see Lomax get his chance but of course he has Rava outside him so that complicates the issue whereas a really good winger would get lots of benefits of Lomax.
Now to the bench sigh
We still have constable plod and to back him up we have a bloke who has been dropped from the centres (how dare they do that to the SOO contender) and people thinking he can mix it in the forwards a position he hasn't played at NRL level.
To top it off we have the musical chairs caper still going on in the 13 jumper with Lawrie 1 week then Host the next then Lawrie again and all the time us playing a prop down and trying to make edge players cope in the centre of the paddock.
Coach just couldn't get his head round drop the winger, drop the centre, drop the plodder he had to complicate it as usual.

Don't you remember our stalwart winger being thrown into the forwards last year, because I don't think he will ever forget it !!!!!

 

[getsmarty]

TripADeal team announcement: Round 8 v Eels
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Tue 30 Apr 2019, 04:00 PM

St George Illawarra coach Paul McGregor has named his mandatory 21-man squad ahead of the Dragons' Round 8 clash against the Parramatta Eels at Bankwest Stadium.

Mikaele Ravalawa returns to the starting side after beginning last week's loss to the Sydney Roosters from the interchange. Zac Lomax shifts from the wing to the centre and Euan Aitken drops back to the bench.

The game will kick-off at 4:05pm, and will follow the Canterbury Cup NSW curtain-raiser between Wentworthville and the Dragons at 1:50pm.

Tim Lafai will celebrate his 150th NRL game this weekend, while Paul Vaughan will play his 50th game for the Dragons.

NRL squad for Round 8 v Parramatta Eels –

Matt Dufty – sponsored by Dynamic Projects

Jordan Pereira – sponsored by SMAI

Zac Lomax – sponsored by Tosich Group
4. Tim Lafai – sponsored by Kingsgrove Sports Centre

Mikaele Ravalawa – sponsored by Professionals Padstow

Corey Norman – sponsored by Illawarra Mercury/St George & Sutherland Shire Leader

Ben Hunt – sponsored by Paul's Customs and Forwarding Solutions

James Graham (c) – sponsored by EFEX

Cameron McInnes (c) – sponsored by Floormania

Paul Vaughan – sponsored by My Muscle Chef

Tyson Frizell (c) – sponsored by Val Morgan

Tariq Sims – sponsored by Stonemasons & Landscapers (since 1970)

Blake Lawrie – sponsored by Wollongong Jetski
Interchange:
14. Jeremy Latimore – sponsored by Dincel Construction System
15. Euan Aitken – sponsored by University of Wollongong
16. Jacob Host – sponsored by Stonemasons & Landscapers (since 1970)
17. Luciano Leilua – sponsored by Domus Lighting
18. Mitch Allgood
19. Jai Field
20. Lachlan Timm
21. Jonus Pearson


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/04/30/tripadeal-team-announcement-round-8-v-eels/

 

[getsmarty]

Game day information: Round 8
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Tue 30 Apr 2019, 03:19 PM

Parramatta Eels v St George Illawarra Dragons
Sunday, May 5
Bankwest Stadium

Broadcast – Channel Nine and Fox League

Gates open: 1pm
Canterbury Cup NSW (Magpies v Dragons): 1:40pm
NRL (Eels v Dragons): 4:05pm

TICKETING

Pre-purchase your tickets from Ticketek and save! www.ticketek.com.au or call 13 28 49

RED V MEMBERSHIP

As this is an away game, Red V members are unable to use their membership cards for access. All Red V members are able to access a 10 per cent discount on pre-purchased tickets in the opposition reserved bay. Check your emails or member card for further details. Buy your tickets from Ticketek.

MERCHANDISE

Dragons merchandise will not be attending this event.

TRANSPORT

There is no public parking on-site at Bankwest Stadium so we advise that the best travel option is public transport. All NRL games will include travel to and from Parramatta on public transport. Bankwest Stadium is as short 10-minute walk from the Parramatta transport interchange in the Parramatta CBD.

An accessible shuttle bus service for patrons with a disability or mobility impairments will run between Parramatta interchange and the stadium. The shuttle will pick up and drop off customers on Argyle Street and on O’Connell Street outside of the Parramatta Leagues Club.

For more transport information please click here.


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/04/30/game-day-information-round-8/

 

[getsmarty]

Eels v Dragons: Round 8 preview
Author
NRL.com
Timestamp
Tue 30 Apr 2019, 04:01 PM

There's a few games that are toss-ups in Round 8 and this might be the hardest of all to pick.

Both teams are coming off losses and it'll be interesting to see who wants it more come Sunday.

Parramatta were probably never going to play as well last week as they did in the previous week's shellacking of the Tigers, but they didn't match the Knights' hunger and energy in the first half and left themselves too much ground to make up despite giving it a decent crack.

The Dragons also paid the price for some questionable decision-making in the first 25 minutes against the Roosters but they matched it for the most part with the competition's benchmark team and shouldn't lose any confidence.


Match: Eels v Dragons

Round 8 - Sunday 5th May

4:05pm

Home Team

Eels

5th Position


Away Team

Dragons

8th Position

Venue: Bankwest Stadium

Match broadcasters:

• Nine Network
• Foxtel
• LIVE PASS
• KAYO

Buy Tickets
The Rundown
Team news
Eels: Daniel Alvaro has been named to start at prop after missing last week's game (concussion), while Peni Terepo drops back to the bench and Ray Stone goes back to the reserves.

Dragons: Mikaele Ravalawa has been promoted to the starting side on the wing and Zac Lomax moves to the centres. Euan Aitken goes from starting centre to the bench. Blake Lawrie has been named to start and Jacob Host is on the bench although Paul McGregor switched them last week on game day and may do the same again.


Match: Eels v Dragons

Round 8 - Sunday 5th May

4:05pm

Home Team

Eels


Away Team

Dragons

Venue:Bankwest Stadium

Team Lists
Backs

• Fullback for Eels is number 1 Clinton Gutherson
  1
  
  Fullback for Dragons is number 1 Matthew Dufty
• Winger for Eels is number 2 Maika Sivo
  2
  
  Winger for Dragons is number 2 Jordan Pereira
• Centre for Eels is number 3 Michael Jennings
  3
  
  Centre for Dragons is number 3 Zac Lomax
• Centre for Eels is number 4 Brad Takairangi
  4
  
  Centre for Dragons is number 4 Timoteo Lafai
• Winger for Eels is number 5 Blake Ferguson
  5
  
  Winger for Dragons is number 5 Mikaele Ravalawa
• Five-Eighth for Eels is number 6 Jaeman Salmon
  6
  
  Five-Eighth for Dragons is number 6 Corey Norman
• Halfback for Eels is number 7 Mitchell Moses
  7
  
  Halfback for Dragons is number 7 Ben Hunt

Forwards

• Prop for Eels is number 8 Daniel Alvaro
  8
  
  Prop for Dragons is number 8 James Graham
• Hooker for Eels is number 9 Reed Mahoney
  9
  
  Hooker for Dragons is number 9 Cameron McInnes
• Prop for Eels is number 10 Junior Paulo
  10
  
  Prop for Dragons is number 10 Paul Vaughan
• 2nd Row for Eels is number 11 Shaun Lane
  11
  
  2nd Row for Dragons is number 11 Tyson Frizell
• 2nd Row for Eels is number 12 Marata Niukore
  12
  
  2nd Row for Dragons is number 12 Tariq Sims
• Lock for Eels is number 13 Tepai Moeroa
  13
  
  Lock for Dragons is number 13 Blake Lawrie

Interchange

• Interchange for Eels is number 14 Peni Terepo
  14
  
  Interchange for Dragons is number 14 Jeremy Latimore
• Interchange for Eels is number 15 Tim Mannah
  15
  
  Interchange for Dragons is number 15 Euan Aitken
• Interchange for Eels is number 16 Oregon Kaufusi
  16
  
  Interchange for Dragons is number 16 Jacob Host
• Interchange for Eels is number 17 Manu Ma'u
  17
  
  Interchange for Dragons is number 17 Luciano Leilua

Reserves

• Reserve for Eels is number 18 Ray Stone
  18
  
  Reserve for Dragons is number 18 Mitchell Allgood
• Reserve for Eels is number 19 Kane Evans
  19
  
  Reserve for Dragons is number 19 Jai Field
• Reserve for Eels is number 20 Josh Hoffman
  20
  
  Reserve for Dragons is number 20 Lachlan Timm
• Reserve for Eels is number 21 George Jennings
  21
  
  Reserve for Dragons is number 21 Jonus Pearson

Eels Ins

• Daniel Alvaro
• George Jennings
• Josh Hoffman
• Kane Evans

Ins
Dragons Ins

• Jai Field
• Jonus Pearson
• Lachlan Timm
• Mitchell Allgood

Eels Outs

Outs
Dragons Ins

Key match-up
Can't go past the clash of halfbacks Mitch Moses and Ben Hunt. Moses wasn't happy to be out-played by Mitchell Pearce last week and will be looking to make amends. Hunt is the forgotten man in the Queensland Origin selection frame, but he could be thrown a lifeline with Daly Cherry-Evans battling an ankle injury. Hunt could rocket into calculations if he has a big game on Sunday.

For the Eels to win
After demolishing the Tigers in a first-half blitz in round six, the Eels copped a taste of their own medicine against the Knights before working their way into the game. It was a jolting reminder how important it is to be ready to play every week and not just expect things to fall into place. The Eels have to go out and make it happen in front of the Bankwest Stadium faithful.

For the Dragons to win
James Graham has to push himself and his fellow forwards to get over the top of Parra's solid pack, while playmakers Hunt and Corey Norman need to take charge and get their team good attacking options. Norman should be particularly fired up for a big one against his former team.

Brett Kimmorley says
The Dragons lost on Anzac Day but they’ve found their niche. Parramatta were really disappointing against Newcastle. This will be a good game. Key halves that have got better at managing situations and forward packs that are going to rip in. I think Parra will be a bit angrier after what happened last week. This is a test for Parramatta. Eels by 1

Stat Attack
Mitch Moses has 55 points in 2019 to be equal third among the NRL's top point-scorers, while Clint Gutherson is tops in run metres (1,268) and line break assists.

And another thing ...
For a bloke who wasn't originally really part of Brad Arthur's plans in 2019, rookie hooker Reed Mahoney is playing like a seasoned pro. He is second in the NRL in tackles made (339) and the only man above him is Dragons hooker Cameron McInnes (340). The pair are set for an intriguing head-to-head duel on Sunday.


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/04/30/eels-v-dragons-round-8-preview/

 

[redandwhite4evr]

So will you be joining the chorus line of complaints when these 2 are with another club in a couple of years?
All players develop differently.

Why would I complain when I am stating that I don't believe they're showing the improvement they should be showing from last year to this year? Yes, players do develop differently but surely you would want to see some significant improvement from the previous year and I don't see either Host or Leilua breaking tackles, or hitting hard in defence on a consistent basis. Yes Mary is a hopeless developer of young players and yes his assistant coaches seem to be lacking in these development skills as well but, by that argument, Blake Lawrie, who I rate highly, and is younger than both of them, wouldn't be a starting first grader either.

Anyway, Origin is fast approaching and wíth T Sims, Vaughan and Frizzell all virtual certainties, Host and Leilua will likely be needed as starting players. That should tell us more about what level they're at.

 

[redandwhite4evr]

I'd say that Ravalawa is going to be looked through the lens of hime being outside Lomax. I supposed that it is hoped he will do better with some clean ball. In addition it will be hoped that he and Lomax will improve the right side edge defence.[/QUOTE

It may be a minor consideration but one reason that Rav was able to hold his position ahead of Pearson is that Pearson is a left winger in CC

 

[Gareth67]

Why would I complain when I am stating that I don't believe they're showing the improvement they should be showing from last year to this year? Yes, players do develop differently but surely you would want to see some significant improvement from the previous year and I don't see either Host or Leilua breaking tackles, or hitting hard in defence on a consistent basis. Yes Mary is a hopeless developer of young players and yes his assistant coaches seem to be lacking in these development skills as well but, by that argument, Blake Lawrie, who I rate highly, and is younger than both of them, wouldn't be a starting first grader either.

Anyway, Origin is fast approaching and wíth T Sims, Vaughan and Frizzell all virtual certainties, Host and Leilua will likely be needed as starting players. That should tell us more about what level they're at.

Agree redandwhite4ever the players you mentioned should had improved , more so after last seasons final matches in which Leilua came out with all guns blazing. Yet now he has once again slipped back in form . Host on the other hand I believe will not hit any great heights , but will always be a very solid workhorse - dependable.

The only light is that Korbin Simms will return in a few weeks and possibly JDB ( but that may be wishful thinking - I hope that the maestro doesn’t pin his hopes on that ) . And with fatigue already starting to show on the forwards the Dragons could find themselves in sorts of trouble unless these younger forwards step up to the mark .

 

[Glenn012]

Gutherson is no.3 for try assists and no.1 for line break assists and run metres this season. Probably worth keeping an eye on him.

Really? Well it just goes to show what a farce these stats can be at times. Jake Trbojevic got a try assist for tackling a guy who dropped the ball and then Manly scored in the next set.

Though obviously "keep an eye on him" and everyone else but kick to him and he is very unlikely to put anyone away with well timed passes or break any tackles himself. He is a good chance of making a mistake. Just need to be careful with Moses and muscle up on their two wingers. Do that well and it will take us a long way to victory. There are no "easy games" but I expect Parra with the media's favorite superstar fullback they don't want for next year, began their march down the ladder last week.

 

[getsmarty]

Behind enemy lines: Round 8
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Tue 30 Apr 2019, 08:32 PM

Parramatta Eels coach Brad Arthur has named his mandatory 21-man squad to face the St George Illawarra Dragons on Sunday, May 5 at Bankwest Stadium.

Following their last start loss to the Newcastle Knights, Daniel Alvaro (concussion) has returned in the front row with Peni Terepo named on the interchange as a result.

Ray Stone has been named in the reserves.

Parramatta Eels team to face the Dragons –

1. Clint Gutherson (c)

2. Maika Sivo

3. Michael Jennings

4. Brad Takairangi

5. Blake Ferguson

6. Jaeman Salmon

7. Mitch Moses

8. Daniel Alvaro

9. Reed Mahoney

10. Junior Paulo

11. Shaun Lane

12. Marata Niukore

13. Tepai Moeroa

Interchange:

14. Peni Terepo

15. Tim Mannah

16. Oregon Kaufusi

17. Manu Ma’u

18. Ray Stone

19. Kane Evans

20. Josh Hoffman

21. George Jennings


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/04/30/behind-enemy-lines-round-8/

 

[getsmarty]

Sims sees positives after tough NRL Anzac Day clash

• Cameron Mee

Dragons Den

Tough day: Jacob Host. Picture: AAP Image.
The challenges faced by St George Illawarra throughout the opening seven weeks of the NRL season have been well-documented.

From the loss of their captain, to injuries to Tyson Frizell and Korbin Sims and the indefinite suspension of Jack de Belin, the Dragons have been forced to overcome numerous hurdles throughout the past couple of months.

With those challenges, however, comes fresh opportunities. The likes of Jacob Host, Blake Lawrie and Matt Dufty have flourished, with the youngsters emerging as players of the future.

Those same players received a wake-up call of sorts last Thursday, when the Dragons struggled to handle the sense of occasion in the annual Anzac Day match at the SCG in their loss to the Roosters.

For veteran forward Tariq Sims, however, even last week's defeat comes with a silver lining. They may have struggled on the big stage once, but come finals time, Sims is confident the team's young players will thrive in a pressure-filled environment.

"Any sort of big game experience is going to benefit all of us players," Sims said. "For those blokes that haven't been in those pressure cookers before, even though we didn't win, they're going to take a lot of confidence from that.

"We'll look at the video, figure out where we should have executed and a few plays we shouldn't have done, because the Roosters have got those people that know when to step up and execute those plays in big pressure moments."

Particularly impressive last week was Luciano Leilua, who threatened the Roosters defensive line on multiple occasions in a 30-minute stint off the bench.

With the 22-year-old becoming more comfortable at the top-flight, Sims is confident that Dragons fans will see more impactful performances from Leilua as the season progresses.

"He's always been great with the ball in hand, there's no doubt about it. Now that he's starting to find his feet in the middle there, in a few more weeks when he knows he can inject himself into the game, when he can and can't do things with the ball, he's going to be a really outstanding player for us."


The Dragons face a long run up to this week's game, with Parramatta waiting on Sunday. While they remain optimistic, it's unlikely de Belin will return for the clash.

A judgement in his federal court proceedings challenging the NRL's no-fault stand down policy is expected this week, however, de Belin is not due in court on Tuesday.

Should a judgement come after Tuesday's deadline for naming this weekend's 21-man squad, St George Illawarra would have to apply for special exemption to play de Belin, a request likely to be denied by the NRL.

Regardless of whether de Belin plays or not, Sims is looking forward to taking to the freshly laid turf at Bankwest Stadium.

"It's a long turn around, which is pretty nice for us, we've had a few close games, so it's good to get a bit of a rest and go up to a brand new shiny stadium to play Parramatta.

"I'm really excited to play out there. I watched that first game from the warmup to the final credits and it looks like an outstanding field. We know what Parra fans are like, they're very enthusiastic, but our fans travel well, we're looking to get that corner packed out with red and white."


https://www.illawarramercury.com.au...a-to-learn-from-anzac-day-experience/?cs=3713

 

[getsmarty]

Corey Norman with nothing to prove ahead of St George Illawarra's clash with former club Parramatta

• Local Sport
  
  
  
  Moving on: Dragons five-eighth Corey Norman says he doesn't have anything to prove to his former club Parramatta. Picture: Adam McLean
• 
  
• Corey Norman says he does not have anything to prove to his former club ahead of St George Illawarra's clash with Parramatta on Sunday.
  
  The Dragons have the opportunity to become the first visiting team to conquer the Eels at the new Bankwest Stadium. But to do so they will need to overcome their horrific record against the blue and golds.
  
  St George Illawarra have lost seven of their last eight matches against Parramatta and will be desperate to bounce back after their Anzac Day defeat to the Sydney Roosters which punctured their four-game winning run.
  
  With St George Illawarra's 10-day turnaround between the Roosters and Eels matches, Ben Hunt will likely be fit to play for the Dragons alongside halves partner Norman after suffering a contusion to his shoulder against the reigning premiers.
  
  Norman has been outstanding for the Dragons this season.
  
  He has won St George Illawarra two games with clutch field goals and has settled into the red V's spine alongside Hunt since captain Gareth Widdop suffered his potentially season-ending shoulder injury.
  
  And Norman told the Sydney Morning Herald he would be focused simply on securing the two points for the Dragons rather than any external pressure around returning to Parramatta. The Eels earned the wooden spoon last season before Norman was squeezed out.
  
  "I don't really have to prove anything to them, to be honest," he said.
  
  "What I need to do is my job for the Dragons and we need to get the win.
  
  "Things like that happen in life and you just move on. It worked out well for [both parties]. That's about as much as I thought about it, to be honest. It's actually good and I'm looking forward to it.
  
  "Who knows? I will probably get booed. We'll see what I get. I'm looking forward to it. I don't take that stuff too seriously, so I'd laugh and get on with the job.
  
  "That new stadium looks unreal. It's going to be packed again and the atmosphere will be good."
  
  "Their game [against the Tigers] was outstanding. The stadium looks unreal. It's going to be a good crowd there and a good atmosphere. I'm really looking forward to getting back there."
  
  The Dragons could also have Jack de Belin included in their line-up should the 28-year-old be successful in his bid to have his standing down under the NRL's new no-fault policy overturned in the Federal Court this week.
  
  The NRL though are likely to block de Belin being named in the Dragons' official 21-man squad if a court decision in his case against the governing body does not come before Tuesday's team list deadline.
  
  That would mean the Dragons would be required to apply for a special exemption to play de Belin against the Eels.

https://www.theleader.com.au/story/6094666/norman-with-nothing-to-prove-ahead-of-eels/?cs=1633

 

[Saint_JimmyG]

I'm confused about the Bs & Ws too.

BankWest Stadium
W-nkBest Stadium

Depending on the result, will stipulate what we call it in the future l guess.
Ok, l was just leaving.....

To clarify,

James speaking to Ticketek rep on Monday morning: “I’d like a single concession ticket for the Dragons versus Parramatta game on Sunday at “WankBest” Stadium please”.

Pause.

(James realises his gaffe)

A bit more awkward silence.

James: ROFL.

Got it?

 

[getsmarty]

"I wasn't expecting it" - Zac Lomax
After making his way into the starting side, Zac Lomax talks about being told the news at the end of training and what he expects from the Parramatta Eels on Sunday.

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/05/01/i-wasnt-expecting-it---zac-lomax/

 

[getsmarty]

Dragons 2019: Lomax out to make starting spot his own in Eels showdown

• 
  Mitch Jennings

Dragons Den

BIG CHANCE: Dragons centre Zac Lomax plans on locking down a permanent starting spot. Picture: NRL Imagery

HE'S made no secret of his desire to lock down a permanent starting spot but Dragons young-gun Zac Lomax insists he was never left disgruntled by his time on the bench this season.

Dubbed 'the gifted one' by NSW coach Brad Fittler, Lomax made his NRL debut from the bench in round 10 last season before playing his side's final three games at right centre after Euan Aitken succumbed to a hamstring injury.

It saw him finish the season with four first grade appearances to his name, two of them in the finals arena, as the Dragons reached the second week of the post-season.

He never looked out of place in the top grade but still returned for preseason behind Aitken and Tim Lafai in the pecking order, with his first four appearances of 2019 coming from the bench in a utility role.

It left plenty to question whether he was being under-utilised by coach Paul McGregor's, but Lomax said it was role he embraced.

"It's been really good. I've really enjoyed playing different positions and understanding the game from a different perspective," Lomax said.

"To be thrown in in different circumstances during the game has been an eye-opener but I've enjoyed every second I've been on the field.

"It's been a massive learning curve being chucked into the middle there and at crucial points in the game too. I've been put in there due to injuries, coming on there at the end of games.

"We won a couple by a field goal by Normy at the end and it was good to be a part of. It's definitely something I've taken a lot out of."

He was promoted to the starting 13 on the right wing for last week's Anzac Day clash, grabbing a second-half try and a goal in a tough 20-10 defeat to the Roosters.

It prompted a selection shift from McGregor ahead of Sunday's match against Parramatta, with Aitken benched to make way for Lomax on the right edge. Lomax plans to make it the first step in locking down the No. 3 jumper fulltime.

"Obviously [starting's] a good feeling, it's what I've hoped for," Lomax said.

"I feel for Euan but, at the end of the day, it's up to Mary [coach Paul McGregor] and what he sees is best for the team.

"Euay and Laf are unbelievable players. I've been sitting behind them for a while. I think the best way you can go about it is to be a sponge and just soak up as much as you can from them.

"I just had to bide my time and do a role for the team. Mary wanted me to come off the bench and to just be ready to go whenever. I was happy to do that.

"I just had to prepare the best I could for all those weeks and [this week] I'll still just be doing my job for the team. Hopefully I can go out there and do that on Sunday we come away with the win as well."

Sunday's clash sets up a showdown with Test and Origin veteran Michael Jennings, though Lomax won't be over-awed after being thrown in the finals deep end last season.

"I can take a lot of confidence out of that but you wouldn't be in this situation if you coaching staff and teammates didn't have confidence in you," he said.

"As soon as I go out on the park I know my teammates have got faith in me. I'm confident I can do a job for the team and I'm more than confident the guys beside me are going to help me every minute of the game."


https://www.illawarramercury.com.au...arting-spot-his-own-in-eels-showdown/?cs=3713

 

[getsmarty]

Vaughan to play 50th game for Dragons
Dragons forward Paul Vaughan was unaware he will play his 50th match for the Dragons on Sunday but is looking forward to reaching the milestone.

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/05/02/vaughan-to-play-50th-game-for-the-dragons/

 

[getsmarty]

Dragons 2019: Vaughan to mark milestone against Eels

• 
  Mitch Jennings

Local Sport

STAR Dragons prop Paul Vaughan admits he's been the butt of a few jokes this week - even from some schoolkids at junior clinics.

Footage of him bursting into the clear against the Roosters last week, only to hit the deck untouched has also got a bit of a run at team video sessions.

"I didn't want to watch it yesterday at training," Vaughan joked.

"A couple of coaches got it up. I have to learn from it. Next time I will put my head down, I should have gone straight over him. I don't get into the clear too often, I was a little bit nervous.

"I blew it against the Sharks [last year] when Jack [de Belin] put me through and I had Friz on the outside and I dummied. I can't trust myself."

The irony is that Vaughan has been one of the toughest men to in the competition to bring down in a powerhouse start to the season.


Remarkably it comes after a limited preseason as he nursed a broken foot suffered in round 21 last season, making him a conspicuous absence through his side's finals campaign.

"I blew out a fair bit when I broke my foot," he said.

"It was highly modified in the pre-season. I was in a boot and crutches for three months. I didn't do too much in the preseason but what I did do benefited me for this year.

"Last year really hurt me missing the finals. I used that as a bit of motivation and drive. When I play footy I don't take anything for granted.

"I've always been a pretty headstrong person. If I want something - on and off the field - I'll get it. If I have something in mind I'll dedicate myself to making sure I achieve it.

"It's good getting yourself in the best physical shape for the boys and helping the team out. That's what I'm trying to do."

NEXT TIME: Paul Vaughan shares a laught with James Tedeso after last week's Anzac Day game. Picture: NRL Imagery

Vaughan's early-season form in a depleted pack has been welcome for coach Paul McGregor, with injuries to Tyson Frizell and Korbin Sims - as well as the stand down of Jack de Belin - testing the Dragons depth up front.

"If any other team was losing that quality they would struggle," Vaughan said.

"We can give ourselves a pass mark for the first couple of weeks of the comp considering that we have been down a fair few numbers.

"There has been a hole in the forward pack but everyone has been chipping in doing what they can."

Sunday's clash against Parramatta will be a milestone one for the 28-year-old who'll play his 50th game for the joint-venture since arriving in Wollongong three years ago.

There were plenty of skeptics who questioned the value and length of the initial three-year deal after Vaughan spent part of his final season in Canberra in the NSW Cup.

He's since earned a further two-year contract extension with the club and is all but certain to feature in his second State of Origin series for NSW this season. The new dad says he's determined to keep repaying the club's faith.

"It is pretty cool. It's gone quick," he said.

"I'm enjoying my time and being given a role in the team that I have to live up to each week. It's been such a great move for me and the family. We just had a baby girl.

"I'm happy off the field with my family and it translates onto the field. I just want to keep giving back to Saints because they've given me so much."


https://www.illawarramercury.com.au...aughan-to-mark-milestone-against-eels/?cs=302

 

[getsmarty]

KICKOFF: Norman and Moses a battle of star potential

• 
  Mitch Jennings

Dragons Den

TIME IS NOW: "At 28, and with two more years to run on his contract, it looks as if Corey Norman could finally deliver on what he's always promised." Picture: NRL Imagery


WHEN Corey Norman was swamped by teammates after nailing the match-winning field goal against Brisbane in round three he shouted "that's why you signed me" - or so certain media reports go.

Hang around Norman and you'll know it's entirely plausible and was no doubt said with tongue in cheek - as are most things the noted larrikin says. He enjoys a piss-take, even of himself.

Norman's sense of humour aside, the reality is the Dragons signed him because he was available after being deemed surplus to requirements by the Eels at the end of last season.

He'll play against his former club for the first time on Sunday. As he's said himself he'll likely be "spraying" some of his former teammates, and copping it in return with good humour.

Still, you can expect the battle between him and Mitchell Moses to be a fierce one. It's well known they didn't gel as a pair last season. One seemingly had to go and the Eels chose Moses just a year after Norman had spearheaded their Eels charge to the top four.

Moses joined the Eels midway through that season to make the only two finals appearances of his career thus far.

The fact just a year later it wasn't working and one of them was forced to move on continued what's been a frustrating run of false starts in both their careers - frustrating because of the obvious talent both possess.

Kickoff can vividly remember Norman's NRL debut with Brisbane - this chilled 19-year-old chewing gum and setting up tries like he'd been doing it for years.

He looked a star in the making. He's seemingly been that way ever since, producing flashes of brilliance and brief explosions of form only for off-field incidents - hiccups more than atrocities - to trip him up.

Dragons fans, and management, were given a reminder of that when an old video resurfaced upon his arrival in Wollongong in the preseason.

It was something he had to rehash on a dozen occasions when he first fronted the media in his new colours. He took, and answered, the questions well.

Most indications are that he has turned the corner and, at 28 and with two more years to run on his contract, it looks as if he could finally deliver on what he's always promised. His early-season form points to that fact and he may yet show the Eels they backed the wrong horse.

Moses has certainly started the season in good form as well, but it's nothing new. Like Norman he's produced isolated runs of form in the past - it's normally coincided with him being off-contract as he is now.

In fact most of the talk that's surrounded Moses throughout his entire career has centred on contract negotiations - that and his potential, on which most of those negotiations have been based.

His arrival at Parramatta came amid a false narrative of being unwanted by the Tigers. Truth was the Tigers were moving heaven and earth for him and Luke Brooks long before either had even debuted in first grade.

TIME'S RIGHT: Mitchell Moses finally has a team to himself, there's no more excuses. Picture: AAP Image

Their manager Isaac Moses had both perpetually in the shop window with price tags many considered inflated. The irony was they couldn't click as a pair - much like Moses and Norman couldn't.

In their defence, they came into first grade in the wildly unstable reigns of Mick Potter and Jason Taylor but you couldn't argue the Tigers didn't make a host of major decisions around accommodating Moses (just ask Taylor). Now the Eels have done the same in moving Norman on.

It may yet be win-win. Moses finally has a team all to himself and, false starts aside, he's only 24. Norman has found a long-term home and looks the goods with a side eyeing a top-four finish.

They'll go head-to-head on Sunday. The last laugh is still to be had. But ask anyone about Norman and they'll tell you - he loves a good laugh.


https://www.illawarramercury.com.au...and-moses-a-battle-of-star-potential/?cs=3713

 

[getsmarty]

Westfund High Performance Update: Round 8
Head of Athletic Performance, Nathan Pickworth, joins us for the Westfund High Performance Update as the Dragons prepare to take on the Parramatta Eels on Sunday.

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/05/03/westfund-high-performance-update-round-8/

 

[getsmarty]

DRAGONS


Stat attack: Parramatta Eels
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Fri 3 May 2019, 03:55 PM

The St George Illawarra Dragons will run on to Bankwest Stadium for the time on Sunday in just the second NRL match ever held at the venue.

Since 1998 the Dragons have come up against the Parramatta Eels on 35 occasions and been victorious 15 times. But the Eels have recently strung together seven wins from eight matches against the Dragons dating all the way back to 2013. Leaving the Dragons with a mission to tip the scales back in their favour.

After seven rounds of the competition, there isn't much to split the two sides who both currently sit inside the top eight.

The Dragons rank eighth in defence having conceded 128 points, while the Eels rank seventh, leaking 125 points.

And while their defence is evenly matched, the Eels hold the high ground in attack scoring the third most points of any team so far this season. Brad Arthur's men have crossed the line for 163 points, boosted by 51-point romping over the Wests Tigers in Round 6.

The Dragons have notched up 130 points leaving them ranked eighth for attack and with some ground to make up on their opposition.

But in testament to the Dragons attacking potential, they have only found themselves in the opposition 20 for 150 tackles throughout seven matches. While the Eels have enjoyed 58 more tackles than the Dragons in the green zone to boost their scores.

Danger man

Clint Gutherson has been starring for the Eels in the opening rounds and currently leads the NRL in both running metres and line break assists.

Gutherson has run for an impressive 1,268 metres, averaging over 180 metres a game. All while keeping the NRLs star playmakers on their toes throwing eight line break assists in seven matches.

The Parramatta fullback will be a crucial cog for the Eels chances on Sunday and will be looking for another performance similar to his last outing at Bankwest stadium, when he notched up two try assists and 190 running metres.

Key Matchups

Ben Hunt v Mitchel Moses

The battle of the halves will play a significant role in the outcome of the match. Ben Hunt hit form with a stunning performance against the Bulldogs in Round 4 and has backed it up with five try assists, two line break assists and getting dirty in defence with 148 tackles.

His opposite number, Mitchell Moses, has also been enjoying a standout season and has posted some impressive figures so far. Moses currently has five try assists and two line break assists, but has struggled in defence making only 114 tackles with 79 per cent efficiency, and ranking inside the top 10 for handling errors.

Tyson Frizell v Shaun Lane

The all-star power of Tyson Frizell will come up against the towering potential of Shaun Lane on Sunday.

Frizell missed some time on the paddock in the opening rounds due to injury, but it hasn't stopped him from leading the way in the Dragons pack since returning. Frizell has averaged over 100 running metres this season and has been busting tackles for fun with seven in four matches.

Since joining Parramatta at the start of the season, Lane has been instrumental in their attack busting the line for three line breaks. Standing an imposing 198cm tall, Lane has thrown seven offloads and made 197 tackles.



https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/05/03/stat-attack-parramatta-eels/

 

[getsmarty]

Eels v Dragons - Round 8
Sam Squiers and Jamie Soward preview the last game of the Round as Parramatta Eels host St George Illawarra Dragons at Bankwest Stadium

https://www.nrl.com/news/2019/05/02/eels-v-dragons---round-8/