This week, when the Parramatta Eels take on the Wests Tigers at ANZ Stadium for Round Seven of the NRL Telstra Premiership, the Club will be celebrating it’s 70th anniversary.
With a big afternoon of football planned, including honouring some of the Eels Hall of Fame Members for their wonderful contribution to our Club with an on-field presentation prior to kick off, some of the Eels legends were on hand to present Blue & Gold Brad Takairangi his special 70th Anniversary jersey.
Takairangi said their involvement and presence on the day would be extra motivation for the team.
“It’s awesome seeing the Blue & Gold legends,” Takairangi said.
“Sitting back stage there with them, they have a couple of stories and it’s good to have them here.”
“It is very important for the club to have them involved. They are going to be there on Monday at the game too, so there is a bit of extra motivation there to get the win.”
The Eels are coming off a defeat to the New Zealand Warriors, with a late reshuffle seeing Takairangi play in the halves alongside Corey Norman, and he discussed the side’s recent form and his new position.
“We have been trying really hard and haven’t been getting the results,” Takairangi said.
“This week we need to get back to training, train hard and do everything we can to get the two points against the Wests Tigers.”
“Normy did a lot of the shot calling, I just had to keep my edge there. It was disappointing that we couldn’t get a fair share of the ball like we needed to, but we will be right this week,” he added.
“As long as Brad Arthur wants me there in the halves, I am happy to play there. I will get my hands on the ball a bit more, and get to help the team out a bit more so I am happy to do that job.”
However whilst there has been plenty of speculation around Mitchell Moses joining the Blue & Gold, Takairangi says the side must focus on their own team, rather than worrying about external factors.
“Obviously the Mitchell Moses angle is there, but he isn’t going to be playing for us this week,” Takairangi said.
“We have to worry about our own backyard and do everything we can to get the win. “
The Parramatta Eels kick off against the Wests Tigers at ANZ Stadium on Monday 17 April. Click here to purchase your tickets to the clash and take advantage of the integrated transport options!
