LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In what could be a see-saw season for Eels fans, Coach Jason Ryles is bracing for some rough patches in Parramatta's attack, but also expecting moments of sheer brilliance, akin to a game-winning try in the dying moments.
Following the departure of Clint Gutherson to the Dragons, all eyes are on new fullback Isaiah Iongi.
If his performance against the Tigers is any indication, the Eels faithful may have a new hero to rally behind.
Iongi's electrifying solo try and slick assist for another score have already caught the attention of fans and critics alike.
While Gutherson's playmaking abilities will be sorely missed, Ryles is banking on Iongi to step up and fill the void.
"He's a natural talent and the more he plays in the NRL, the better he'll become," Ryles remarked after the Tigers clash, where star halves Mitch Moses and Dylan Brown were absent.
As the Eels gear up for what could be a rollercoaster ride of a season, one thing is certain - Iongi's flair and tenacity could be the X-factor that propels Parramatta to success.
And if he can replicate his standout performance against the Tigers, Ryles might just be hailed as a visionary for letting Gutherson go.