Eels still
hoping for finals

Parramatta coach Brian Smith hasn't given up hope of making the National Rugby League finals despite his out-of-luck side finding another way to lose today.

The Eels became the first outfit to taste defeat in a premiership game - outside of the finals - under the golden point system, which was controversially introduced this season. It was an historic day at Brookvale Oval, with the Sea Eagles winning 36-34 in the eighth minute of extra time before 10,387 fans.

The defeat - Parramatta's eighth this season - left the Eels stranded in second last spot.