LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
An upcoming clash between the Wests Tigers and the Eels has players gearing up for what some are calling the "Spoon Bowl." While finishing 16th may not be cause for celebration, the Tigers are determined to avoid another wooden spoon and instead hand the dubious honor over to the Eels.
Coach Benji Marshall, a legend in the game, expressed mixed feelings about his team's involvement in the first Spoon Bowl in nearly a decade.
However, he sees it as an opportunity for his young squad to gain valuable experience and hopefully break their streak of wooden spoon finishes.
Despite the game being scheduled for a less-than-ideal 6pm kickoff, fans have eagerly snatched up tickets for the showdown between the struggling Tigers and the Eels, who have had their own share of challenges despite making it to the grand final a couple of years ago.
The Tigers narrowly avoided finishing last thanks to recent wins against tough opponents and are now hot on the heels of the Eels in the standings.
Meanwhile, the Eels are coming off a high-scoring victory and are looking to end their disappointing season on a positive note before a coaching change takes place.
"I'd prefer not to be in this position," Marshall admitted.
"But it's a great opportunity for the young players to experience a high-pressure game atmosphere, even if it is at the bottom of the ladder."