Dyldam Parramatta Eels Assistant Coach Steve Murphy is expecting the Bulldogs outfit to come out firing in Round Two after their disappointing performance in Round One, and the Blue and Gold have prepared themselves for the tough encounter.
Playing at ANZ Stadium for their annual Bandaged Bear Cup clash, Murphy is weary of their opponents.
“They wouldn’t of been happy wit their performance last week and they were very good at the back end of the game so they will be looking to build on some momentum against us,” Murphy said of the Bulldogs.
“We have a set standard we want to play to and we will be endeavouring to do that tonight” he added.
Latest Injury News
The Bulldogs have lost Josh Reynolds through injury, replaced by Moses Mbye, and Murphy knows that the Eels will need to be on their toes to contain the livewire.
“Moses Mbye is an enthusiastic little player, a good left foot kick and plenty of talent.”
“He will add plenty of energy and enthusiasm, obviously he is not Josh Reynolds, but at the same time we are very respectful of our opponent this week.”
“They played the Grand Final last year and went on a run and only have a stronger roster this year.”
The Bulldogs have strike across the park, however Murphy expects the Blue and Gold to be on their game.
“Brett Morris at the back will be very difficult, I think he had 16 tackle breaks last week, so he will be very hard to contain but they have quality all across the park and we will have to play well to give ourselves a chance,” Murphy said.
“We have great depth in the forwards and across the park aswell.”
“Danny Wicks will play his first game for the club, and that is exciting. He has had a tremendous pre-season and we are really buoyed by what he has done, as we are the whole team.”
Match Preview - Bulldogs v Eels
The Eels were lifted by a vocal Blue and Gold Army at Pirtek Stadium for their Round One clash, something the squad noticed, and Murphy is hopeful of another strong turn out from the loyal fan base to assist the squad in tonight’s encounter.
“All the players after the game last week said how much of a difference the crowd made.”
“Once the Parramatta chant goes up, it’s very hard not to be excited by it!”
“For the players out there, I’m sure they will give them something to cheer about and once they start chanting they can make a real difference so lets get them all out there.”
Kickoff is at 7:35pm from ANZ Stadium tonight. Click here to purchase tickets to the game.
Eels ticketed Members will receive reciprocal entry at ANZ Stadium this Friday night, Click here for more info.
