'Awesome' Cherry-Evans drew praise from a Roosters teammate after making his debut in Sydney colours.
Daly Cherry-Evans took to the field for the first time in Roosters kit while young halves partner Sam Walker ended up the most eye-catching performer.
Walker scored a try and created two more as the pair combined in the club's final pre-season hit-out.
Despite the Roosters' early dominance, Parramatta rallied to win 28-22 and secure the NRL pre-season challenge crown.
New Eels halves Mitch Moses and Jonah Pezet also offered glimpses of promise during their shared opening 40 minutes on the park.
The Roosters held a 22-12 lead when Cherry-Evans and James Tedesco exited the game, a turning point that allowed the Eels to mount their comeback.
Cherry-Evans arrives under heavy scrutiny after 15 years in Manly colours and 352 NRL appearances, increasing interest in how he will perform at his new club.
A major talking point will be how he and Walker gel in the Roosters' attacking system over the coming months.
Wearing number six on the night while Walker wore seven, the veteran remained the most vocal figure directing traffic around him.
Operating from his customary right side, Cherry-Evans also took on primary in-play kicking duties as the halves split their touches.
Clearly his presence helped free up Walker and create more space for the younger playmaker to operate.
Overall the match provided an early glimpse of a partnership that could define the Roosters' attack this season.