LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Parramatta Eels are facing a significant setback as fullback Isaiah Iongi has been ruled out for up to four weeks due to a hand injury sustained during their recent loss to the Canberra Raiders.
"Iongi suffered the broken hand...but played close to 60 minutes with the injury." This injury comes at a critical time for the Eels, who are struggling in second-last place with three consecutive defeats.
Despite this, the 22-year-old Iongi had become a standout player during the team's rough patch, drawing attention for his impressive work ethic.
While Iongi will be sidelined, the Eels can look forward to the return of their chief halfback, Mitchell Moses.
Eels fans have eagerly anticipated Moses's comeback, especially since his presence dramatically improved the team's performance earlier in the season.
Moses has been out since round 14 after injuring himself before the State of Origin Game 2.
As Iongi recovers, there's an opportunity for Dylan Brown to return to the lineup.
Brown was recently dropped from the team as coach Jason Ryles looks ahead to the future, with the club's chances of making the finals looking bleak.
"Brown is on his way out the door to join the Knights at the end of the season."
Though the Eels have struggled without Moses, there is hope that his combination with Zax Lomax can revive the team's fortunes.
Their partnership was a highlight before Moses's injury, and fans are eager to see them back on the field together.
Overall, the team navigates a turbulent season under Ryles, balancing injuries and strategic changes while hoping for a turnaround in their performance.