LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Parramatta fans are in uproar after the Eels' disastrous decision to play a home game in Darwin backfired spectacularly, leaving them humiliated by the Dolphins.
The Eels, who haven't tasted victory in the Top End since 2021, were completely outclassed by their opponents, leading coach Brad Arthur to liken them to a "part-time football team".
After a promising start with an 8-4 lead at halftime, the Eels crumbled in the second half, conceding a whopping eight tries to suffer a humiliating 44-16 defeat at TIO Stadium.
Despite facing a depleted Dolphins side missing key players and their coach Wayne Bennett, the Eels failed to capitalize on their advantage, leaving their fans seething with disappointment.
The loss marked their third consecutive defeat in Darwin, leading many supporters to question the wisdom of continuing to play matches in the Top End.
In a bid to justify their ongoing partnership with Darwin, the Eels pointed to a 10-year deal signed with the Northern Territory government in 2013.
Captain Clint Gutherson expressed the team's enthusiasm for the annual trip, describing it as a highlight of the season.
"The Territory has always felt like a second home to us," Gutherson said.
"We cherish the opportunity to engage with the loyal fans there and appreciate their unwavering support over the years."
As Parramatta licks their wounds and ponders their next move, the fallout from their ill-fated decision to play in Darwin continues to resonate among fans and critics alike.
The Eels will need to regroup and show resilience as they navigate the consequences of their costly mistake on the rugby league battlefield.