The Dyldam Parramatta Eels take on the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium this Friday night for their Round 19 clash, and Eels hooker Isaac De Gois has pinpointed a big challenge for their Blue and Gold forwards.
De Gois was a late inclusion in the Eels Round 17 clash against the Wests Tigers, returning from facial fractures, and the hooker was glad to be out in the middle before a refreshing bye week.
“I had a bit of family time and went to the movies with the little girl for the first time which was pretty good. But really just a bit of down time,” De Gois said of his three day break.
“It was great to be back out there, it’s always hard being injured,” De Gois added.
“It was great to get back last week and getting the win was a bonus.”
The Eels have had three wins to go along with their two byes in the last 5 weeks, and De Gois said the 10 points gained over this period of the season was crucial in building a bit of confidence amongst the Blue and Gold as they enter the back end of the season.
“Every win is important, and the 10 points, we had a couple of byes in there which always helps,” De Gois said.
“But three wins in a row we have built a bit of confidence in the team which is good. “
The Eels will be looking to carry that momentum into this Friday night, when they take on the 8th placed Bulldogs who boast plenty of dangers and De Gois said the boys in the middle will need to be ready for the challenge.
“Bulldogs have a very big pack, very physical and a lot of class backs to finish and score points.” De Gois said.
“They have a massive pack with Kasiano, Klemmer and Pritchard who are just real big boys, and that’s how they get their momentum going forward,” De Gois added.
“They have classy backs to finish the points off so it will be a big test for our middle pack.”
Along with the Bulldogs bopping forwards, the Eels will be wary of the livewire Josh Reynolds.
“Reynolds started the other night and played quite well. He is a classy player, you have to watch him because he is very good on his feet and plays off the cuff,” De Gois said.
“He is very dangerous and I am sure we will be watching him closely and a lot of the team in the video sessions this week.”
Don't forget to get to the Game:
The Eels will run out against the Bulldogs for their Round 19 game on Friday, July 17, wearing a Heritage Jersey inspired by those worn by 1986 Premiership-winning side.
Arrive early to see what you would look like standing in the 1986 team photo at our #ReLive86 photo booth, and remmeber the 1,947th Member through the gates will win a TV, thanks to Changhong!
Click through for all the game day info, and get your tickets today for another classic chapter in the Eels-Dogs rivalry!
