Eels hold on against Rabbitohs

The Parramatta Eels have claimed a hard fought 18-12 victory over a determined South Sydney Rabbitohs side at Parramatta Stadium today.

The Eels held a 14-0 lead at half time, but were very nearly run down by the Rabbitohs late in the game. The Eels took a 2-0 lead after 13 minutes through a Krisnan Inu penalty goal. The two point lead quickly turned into 14 points, as the Eels threatened to embarrass the Rabbitohs.

Nathan Cayless scored after Inu offloaded a Finch bomb into his arms on 21 minutes, and in the 26th minute Timana Tahu scored a fine individual try, running around defenders and though the middle of the field. Souths managed to hold out for the rest of the half despite strong Eels attacking raids.

As soon as the second half started it was apparent that Souths would improve their attack. They got on the board after 51 minutes through a Shane Rigon dummy half run. The Eels looked to have wrapped the game up after 63 minutes following a Joel Reddy try. The scrambling Souths defence rescued them again, pulling down Fui Fui Moi Moi metres from the line late in the game.

Souths gave themselves a chance with five minutes to go after Ben Rogers and Nathan Merritt combined to produce a fine try for Merritt. Following a missed Brett Finch field goal, Souths broke down the field and were given a repeat set after a Parramatta knock on.

They were unable to crack the line, and Eric Grothe took a brilliant catch on a bomb in the final minute to ensure the Eels would get away with the two points.

Parramatta Eels 18

Tries: Nathan Cayless, Timana Tahu, Joel Reddy

Field Goals: Brett Finch (0/1)

Goals: Krisnan Inu (3/4)

South Sydney Rabbitohs 12

Tries: Shane Rigon, Nathan Merritt

Goals: Nathan Merritt (2/2)