Quiet achiever Arthur sees Eels growth

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 02 April 2014 | 20.47

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In his usual understated manner it was obvious that Parramatta coach Brad Arthur was not getting too carried away with his side's impressive victory over Penrith on the weekend.

He made it clear that they would need to continue to improve across the board if they are to make any mark in this year's competition.

However behind the stoic facade, I think the new Eels' boss would have been delighted with the character shown by his football team over the past two weeks.

Firstly, it was vital that they produced something substantial after being steamrolled by a rampant Roosters outfit in round two.

They did that, but it didn't result in a win against Manly.

Chris Sandow's return is a major boost for PArramatta. Source: Getty Images

It then became paramount they were able to react positively to the heartbreak of going down in the final play of the game against the Sea Eagles.

They did that, in a victory that was professionally closed out in the final quarter.

The return of Chris Sandow was also a success with the under-pressure halfback resisting any temptation to overplay his hand.

That was the secret to finding his way after being recalled into the top grade and the calmness and composure of Nathan Peats and Corey Norman made it infinitely easier.

While the pair's their influence and direction aided Sandow, I get the feeling that Jarryd Hayne is equally benefited and poised to play his best football.

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IT doesn't get any more traditional than the Dragons versus Rabbitohs at the Sydney Cricket Ground, although a Saturday night meeting is a new twist.

Much of the build-up has obviously been about the long rivalry between these two great clubs and how the SCG was so often the battle ground on which any number of important matches were decided.

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In the halcyon days of the Dragons it seemingly became their home away from home, with the old "match of the day" being played at the cricket ground every Saturday afternoon. Their success, certainly through the 1960s, meant that they were involved in this game almost on a weekly basis.

For those of my vintage it was the ritual we grew up with. Every Saturday arvo camped around the black-and-white television, tuned into the ABC.

Trent Merrin and Johnny Raper look to St George's past and present. Source: News Corp Australia

I was reminded of the nostalgia of that upbringing and the link between the past and present, through a highly enjoyable get-together with Johnny Raper and Trent Merrin on Tuesday afternoon.

What was immediately obvious was the huge amount of mutual respect between the two men and the appreciation they hold of having the honour to don the jersey with the big red V.

It was wonderful to watch their interaction. To listen to them discuss how the role of a lock-forward has changed, from classic cover-defending tackles to skilful ball-playing in the middle of the ruck, even the different number worn on the back.

Rugby league may have changed dramatically over the years but not the sense of occasion, history, rivalry, mateship and sheer joy recognised by those lucky enough to have been, or still involved in the game.

I was afforded an uplifting reminder of this in the Kogarah Oval sheds during the week.

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I WOULDN'T be at all surprised to see a late change to the run-on side for the Warriors for their clash with Cronulla this Saturday.

Before registering their second win of the season over the Tigers, coach Matt Elliot couldn't have waxed more lyrical about the importance of getting Thomas Leuluai back into his team as soon as possible.

The versatile Kiwi international returned from injury on the weekend playing 35 minutes off the interchange bench.

Thomas Leuluai has impressed since returning to the NRL with the Warriors. Source: Getty Images

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After nine seasons in the English Super League he settled beautifully back into the NRL last year and started in all 24 matches.

As did halves partner Shaun Johnston and there's no doubt that the star No. 7 has produced his best football when Thomas has been at his side.

Chad Townsend has done a good job in his absence and Elliot may be tempted to go with the former Shark against his old club but after a shaky start for the New Zealanders the availability of Leuluai is a huge bonus.


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