LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The rugby league community was taken aback when rumors surfaced about Jonah Pezet signing with two NRL clubs. The unexpected news was that the Parramatta Eels were set to acquire the young halfback for just one season, a move that sparked debate among the blue-and-gold supporters.
When Pezet's signing was confirmed on Wednesday, it led to further inquiries about the decision. Parramatta Eels head coach Jason Ryles described the situation as a "perfect storm."
"It just happened through circumstance really; he made himself a free agent and we saw a bit of a gap there with the depth," Ryles explained to the media. He noted that back-up halfback Dean Hawkins had expressed interest in moving on to pursue larger opportunities, which the coaching staff acknowledged.
"It was a bit of a perfect storm in that regard. That's how it all happened; it wasn't planned or perfect, but it ended up like that. Everyone benefits out of it," he added.
Despite this, concerns have persisted about the progress of young half Joash Papalii, who was anticipated to fill in alongside Mitchell Moses this season following the departure of Dylan Brown.