Round 14: Bulldogs v Eels preview
Taking "classic" out of the classics.
The form line of the Bulldogs has denigrated to such a point in recent years that even these classic, storied rivalries just don't have the shine they once do. A regular refrain in commentary, even just a decade ago, is that something always happens with Canterbury face Parramatta.
Indeed there are countless memories of these teams facing off in vitally important matches, many unforgettable moments, and 150 games of history to back it all up.
Sadly for the team in blue-and-white though - and paying fans - this match-up on Monday has all the hallmarks of a lopsided rout.
The news isn't all horrible. Sacking Trent Barrett and bringing in Mick Potter as interim coach has yielded results in attack - up Round 10 the 'Dogs maximum points scored in a match was 16 - the three games since has seen them score 22, 24 and 18 despite losing each match.
Clearly their defence is an area that needs significant work. Given the same teamlist that took to the field last weekend in their loss to an under-strength Penrith is named this week, it's hard to see where the improvement comes from.
Making matters worse? Sivo's back. The prolific Eels winger returns after a long injury layoff and successful stint gaining match fitness in NSW Cup where he scored 6 tries in three games. His return for the Eels pushes Tom Opacic out of the 17, Waqa Blake shifting to centre.
One thing about the Eels - it is hard to get a good gauge on them at the moment. At their best, they can beat anyone. Having taken down heavyweights Penrith and Melbourne, you'd think they'd be ladder leaders - but losses to the Tigers, Cowboys and Roosters have fans and pundits perplexed and unsure what the blue-and-gold will serve up on a weekly basis.
The good news is they come in fresh and rested off a bye, following back to back wins over Manly and Canberra, and have a relatively settled lineup. Only injury to Origin stars Campbell-Gillard, Paulo and Matterson would create problems - depleting their intimidating pack massively.
Last meeting: Round 15 2021 - Eels 36 Bulldogs 10
Who to watch: The halves-wing combinations are going to provide plenty of entertainment on Monday afternoon. Canterbury pair Matt Burton and Josh Addo-Carr gave Penrith plenty of headaches last Friday and their connection will no doubt be something Brad Arthur's men will study ahead of the clash. Burton's kicking game, Addo-Carr's speed... could it be the Bulldogs' ticket out of the wooden spoon position?
The real question for the Eels will be how many tries Sivo can bag on his return to the big league. The kicking games of Mitch Moses and Dylan Brown will no doubt be key in helping him cross the line too. Worrying for Eels fans and the coaching staff though will be Sivo's defensive efforts, which have been a bit below the mark in recent years. If Canterbury's attack is creative enough to exploit that, it could be 'game on'.
The favourite: Parramatta. Only the brave (or stupid) will be putting their hard-earned on the Bulldogs.
My tip: It's no surprise that everyone in every tipping competition nationwide is tipping the Eels. I shan't be going against that either. Eels by 16.
