Eels v Knights
VENUE & TIME: Parramatta Stadium, Saturday night - 19:30 AEST
COVERAGE: Fox Sports, ABC Radio (Newcastle only)
LAST TIME: Eels 50 - Knights 0 at EnergyAustralia Stadium, round 14, 2005
WALKING WOUNDED
For the Eels, fullback Wade McKinnon returns from a hamstring injury, while prop Michael Vella is out for a further two weeks with a broken hand. Winger Matt Petersen has been ruled out for the season with a broken leg, suffered last week against the Raiders. There is still no word on when utility Daniel Wagon (shin) will make his return.
The Knights were hoping to get experienced centre Matt Gidley back from a groin injury, but he requires another week. Brother Kurt may join him on the field next week against Bulldogs if he is the given the all-clear to resume playing from a similar injury.
FORM
A minor hiccup for the Eels last week when they unexpectedly struggled against the Raiders. Canberra decided to throw it around and the Eels were caught napping with their big forwards tiring in the latter stages. Still good things to remain in second position come finals time.
The Knights were strong against the Sharks, but failed in golden point to get the cash. It was their fifth loss by four points or less for the season which isn't too bad for a side resigned to finishing with the wooden spoon.
WHO'S HOT
Eels second-rower Nathan Hindmarsh just doesn't know when to stop. But last week it wasn't a marathon defensive effort that caught the eye, it was his damaging ball-carrying. From 21 hit-ups, he made 214m on top of the usual 40-50 tackles. People tend to forget Hindmarsh can be just as devastating in offence as he can be effective in defence.
Hindmarsh's clash with Blues Origin teammate Steve Simpson should be a highlight of this match with both players in top form. Simpson was unstoppable at times for the Knights last week in a strong two-try performance.
WHO'S NOT
Eels winger Matt Petersen may have played his last game for the club after suffering a season-ending injury in Canberra last Sunday. It's common knowledge the Eels have allowed him to negotiate with rival clubs for next year.
KEY MATCH-UPS
Tim Smith v Andrew Johns
Nathan Hindmarsh v Steve Simpson
Mark Riddell v Danny Buderus
LIKE TO SEE
The rookie take it up to master. Boom Eels halfback Tim Smith has been a bit quiet of late and will need to find his best to counter one of the greatest of all time in Andrew Johns. If ever Smith is to learn the finer arts of halfback play, it will be this week. Let's hope he gives as good as he gets.
WE THINK
With Johns, Buderus and co. available for Newcastle, don't expect a 50-point win to the Eels this time around. The Eels' superior forward pack and bench should give them the impetus to etch out a comfortable victory, but not before the ever-improving Knights give a bit a cheek. Eels by 14.
