Taylor drops Tim Smith and Mark Riddell

Jason Taylor has today dropped Smith and Riddell as one of his first acts as caretaker coach of the Eels. Both players were intoxicated before a scheduled team rehab session yesterday. They have also been fined $5000 each.

In another change to the side Matt Petersen's run has finally ended in the top grade. Unfortunately Matt has been outclassed on the field this season and I can only see him coming back into this side due to injury. He just isn't cut out for the big league at the moment.

Also there have been some forced changes due to injury and Origin. Nathan Cayless is out injured, and Nathan Hindmarsh and Timana Tahu are out due to Origin committments. This may soon include Eric Grothe as he is on standby for the Origin side. Coming into the side as replacements are Jarryd Hayne, Luke O'Dwyer, Jeremy Smith, Zeb Taia, Josh Cordoba and Daniel Wagon.

So this weeks Parramatta side is going to have a very different look and feel to it. The captain, the halfback, and their inspiration in Hindmarsh are all gone. And Brian Smith is no longer on the sideline overlooking the team. Taylors task at the moment is not the most enviable but with the talent at this disposal I am sure a turn around in fortune is not to far off. Watch for a big performance on Friday night against the Panthers.