LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Parramatta coach Jason Ryles addressed criticism directed at the Eels, emphasizing that impatience and a win-now mentality are prevalent issues across all global sports, not just in the NRL. This comes in response to a harsh column earlier this week that noted the club's lack of progress during his first year in charge.
The article raised questions about why the 15th-placed Eels were being praised despite achieving the same number of wins this year as they did last year under former coach Brad Arthur, who was dismissed midway through the season.
However, it's important to understand that wins and losses don't tell the complete story for the Eels, especially considering they lost veterans Clint Gutherson and Reagan Campbell-Gillard last year. Experienced forwards such as Shaun Lane, Ryan Matterson, and Joe Ofahengaue have also departed.
Additionally, Blaize Talagi left at the end of the 2024 campaign, and five-eighth Dylan Brown is set to join the Knights next year on a record-breaking contract.
This context explains why few anticipated a championship win from the Eels this season, and hardly anyone expected them to secure a spot in the top eight. Fans are looking for signs of progress during what is vital first year of a rebuild under Ryles.
New signings, including Zac Lomax, Joash Papalii, Isaiah Iongi, Jack Williams, Josh Addo-Carr, and Dylan Walker, have notably contributed. However, key injuries to players like Mitch Moses have hindered their development.
Despite the challenges, it's difficult to criticize a team that has shown defensive improvements compared to last year, and their recent performances have been promising as they aim to lay the groundwork for the 2026 season.