Well, I've just got to say, that was one of the gutsiest performances I've ever seen from a Parramatta side. To have our two wingers absent; Marata absent; and Jennings ruled out on gamed day - and then put in a performance like that - is truly astounding. And it speaks volumes for Arthur's ability to rally a side under adversity. Imagine if Easts lost Morris, Tupou and, say, Butcher, and then lost Manu on game day? And then ask them to play South Sydney in a sudden death semi-final.
Clint Gutherson. My God! Why did I ever want him moved from fullback? Astounding!
I'm so proud of my team today. Go Parra!
Agree and based on the circumstances a monster effort. However the fact we were up and well and truly on top at halftime is an ongoing concern.
The 80 minute performance again alluded us.
Our bench proved to be our achilles heel.
Yes if Moses gets the goal its 20 all. Or if Guth grounds the ball...and no intercept etc. However its now 3 times in 4 years out in the 2nd week.
Will also say poor use of the bench. For mine a prop short and Kaufusi over Stone anyday. Was a Stone fan but just don't think he's good enough. Glad Evans is gone. Marata, Kaufusi, Lane and Will Smith/? on the bench nxt yr is far more formidable than ydays bench. The bench looked wrong.
On many occassions we have come back from the halftime break looking flat. Major concern.
I think the signs were there from about 8-10 weeks ago.
Its time for Kidwell and Murphy to go.
Get Flanagan in asap and Kimmorley/ Jason Taylor. Or even look at utilising Thurston/ Slater. I think we need some new ideas. We are close but yet still so far.
Hopefully we have 2 gun players join the team (backrower and wing/centre) and id like to see an investment in our juniors just like penrith.
The nucleus is there. A few astute additions, hopefully a few of our boys play SOO too to give them that big game, high intensity experience and better roster management to take us further next year...
It sucks going out but hopefully its identified what is needed to be at the top..dont forget Penrith figured it out...we can too