Eels' chase for Pritchard adds bite to Dogs clash
Date
March 14, 2013
Adrian Proszenko
Chief Rugby League Reporterl
Parramatta have made a play for Canterbury forward Frank Pritchard in a move that will add further spice to Thursday night's clash between the arch rivals.
Pritchard, one of the biggest-name forwards off contract at the end of the season, is also considering interest from St George Illawarra and Wests Tigers.
However, the Eels are the club most likely to prise him out of Belmore as they attempt to bolster their pack. They thought they had nabbed their first big name under new coach Ricky Stuart when Josh Papalii signed a three-year deal worth $1.3 million. However, Canberra got underneath their guard, benefiting from a rule that allows the holding club up until round 13 to lodge a counter offer.
Pritchard has returned to his devastating best under the coaching of Des Hasler and the Bulldogs are keen to retain him. However, they are unlikely to be able to compete with Parramatta's offer. The 29-year-old has a family connection at the Eels, with younger brother Kaysa a hooker on the club's books.
A leg injury will prevent the New Zealand international from taking on the Eels at ANZ Stadium and he could be out for up to another month.
The Dragons are also looking to add starch to their pack and are keen to add the man dubbed ''Frank the Tank'' to their books.
The Eels remain cashed up after missing out on several of their signing targets including Papalii and Cowboys props Matt Scott and James Tamou. They are also after off-contract Wests Tigers captain Robbie Farah but the NSW hooker is expected to re-sign on a deal that will make him a Tiger for life.
It is understood Brisbane utility Corey Norman is close to agreeing to join the Eels. Norman's preferred position is pivot but he has been shifted to fullback after the arrival of Scott Prince.
Norman has told those close to him that he is poised to accept the $400,000-a-year deal.
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