In a disappointing display, the Parramatta Eels surrendered a crucial opportunity to secure a victory in their season finale, losing 24-22 to the St. George Illawarra Dragons.
The turning point came in the 74th minute when Tyrell Sloan kicked a field goal, clinching the win for the Dragons, who were down a player after Blake Lawrie was sin-binned.
Despite having a one-man advantage, Parramatta fell short, managing only two successful plays out of their last seven sets.
Captain Mitchell Moses expressed his frustration, criticizing the team's performance and their lack of focus, which led to 13 errors throughout the match.
"We got what we deserved. We came with a s*** attitude, and thought we'd get it dished up (on a plate)," Moses said.
Coach Jason Ryles called the match the team's worst of the season, particularly against a team that finished at the bottom of the standings.
Despite having a lead of 22-20 after Jordan Samrani's try in the 49th minute, Ryles noted that the team struggled for large portions of the game.
"That was really disappointing. I thought the attitude was off today. It wasn't up to standard and I feel for the fans who had to sit through that," Ryles stated.