PARRAMATTA EXTEND RIDDELL'S CONTRACT

Parramatta hooker Mark Riddell has today extended his playing contract with the Eels and will remain with the club until the end of the 2009 season.Riddell has been with Parramatta for the last two seasons where he has already racked up 46 first grade appearances including 22 matches in 2006.

The 25-year-old started his NRL career with the Dragons in 2001 and played 92 first grade matches for the Red and White's. A St Christophers junior, Riddell enjoyed a stellar 2005 season and this year endured a rough year on and off the field. Riddell was dropped to Premier League mid-season following an alcohol related incident with Tim Smith and his on field performances didn't live up to those from 2005.

However, Parramatta saw fit to extend Riddell's contract where he'll be at the Eels for at least another three seasons believing in his potential and ability.

Riddell said, "I'm really excited to be staying at Parramatta. I love everything about this place and I'm looking forward to the years ahead."

The Club has shown a lot of faith in me and I know the best way to repay that is by helping the team to be successful."

Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Denis Fitzgerald said, "Mark has impressed everyone since he arrived a couple of seasons ago and he is a very popular player both amongst his team mates and with the supporters."