LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a dramatic turn of events, a scandalous accusation has rocked the Rugby League world, casting a shadow over the Parramatta Eels' triumphant return to form and plunging the New Zealand Warriors further into despair.
The Eels' victory, their first in six matches, has left the Warriors teetering on the brink of disaster like a ship lost at sea.
The clash at GO Media Stadium saw the Eels deliver a crushing blow to the Warriors, with a dominant performance that left their opponents reeling.
Despite missing key player Mitchell Moses and struggling with just one win in their last 12 games, Parramatta showed grit and determination to secure a vital win.
The final scoreline of 30-20 may have flattered the Warriors, as three late tries helped them salvage some pride in the face of defeat.
The Warriors, desperate for a win, welcomed back star player Shaun Johnson and reshuffled their lineup in a bid to turn their fortunes around.
But even with the return of Johnson and the reshuffling of positions, including moving Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to the wing, the team failed to ignite as expected.
Big names like Addin Fonua-Blake were unable to spark a revival in this crucial match.
However, the game was marred by controversy when Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak accused Eels forward Joe Ofahengaue of a "squirrel grip" in the 47th minute.
This unsavory incident has overshadowed the on-field action and added a sour note to an otherwise thrilling encounter.
As the NRL Telstra Premiership season heats up, each game becomes more crucial than the last.
The Eels may have taken a step closer to avoiding the dreaded wooden spoon, while the Warriors find themselves fighting an uphill battle to keep their season alive.
Only time will tell how this drama unfolds and whether the Warriors can claw their way back from the brink of defeat.