LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Parramatta Eels maintained their unbeaten start to The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup season with a 23-16 victory over the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
The Eels dominated the first half, taking a 12-0 lead into halftime and extending it to 18-0 early in the second half.
Despite a late surge from the Bulldogs, the Eels held on for the win with a late field goal from Ronald Volkman sealing the victory.
The game, played in wet and slippery conditions, saw both teams struggle to adapt.
The Eels broke the deadlock after 26 minutes when Joash Papalii scored against his former team with a clever right foot step.
Just before halftime, Brendan Hands' kick deflected into the in-goal area, allowing Saxon Pryke to pounce on the loose ball and extend the Eels' lead.
Early in the second half, Papalii once again made his presence felt, setting up Sean Russell for a try to push the Eels' lead to 18-0.
Despite the Bulldogs mounting a comeback and closing the gap to 22-16, the Eels held on for the win with Volkman's field goal securing the victory.
The Eels' strong first-half performance set the tone for the match, with coach Andrew Webster praising their effort and resilience in difficult conditions.
Webster commended Papalii for his impact on the game, stating, "Joash's ability to create something out of nothing was crucial for us today."
Overall, the Eels' ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain composure under pressure proved to be the difference in the game.
Despite a late surge from the Bulldogs, the Eels' early lead and solid defense ultimately secured their victory and continued their unbeaten start to the season in the NSW Cup.