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Jake Arthur shows resilience in rebound

3 minute read

Jake Arthur has ensured a far better reception from Parramatta fans at his next home match after setting up two crucial tries in their 36-20 NRL win over Manly.

BRAD ARTHUR.
BRAD ARTHUR. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Image

Proud Parramatta coach Brad Arthur claims he never doubted his son Jake's ability to brush off trolls and star in his next big opportunity at the Eels.

Arthur enjoyed a big second half in Friday night's 36-20 victory over Manly, setting up two tries in the final 25 minutes after the Eels had trailed 20-14.

The win moved Parramatta closer to the top-four race, with a crucial final month of the regular season ahead for the Eels.

But for the 19-year-old half it also would have meant so much more.

The subject of jeers from so-called Parramatta fans in his last game for the club a fortnight ago, Arthur had easily his best night in the NRL on Friday.

His first assist came from a nicely-placed harbour-bridge ball to Waqa Blake, before he put the game beyond doubt by grubber-kicking for Tom Opacic.

"Regardless of what happened tonight, I know his character and I knew he would handle it," Brad Arthur said.

"I am proud of him regardless. He is my son.

"But that's just his character. He doesn't let things bother him.

"I thought his halves partner did a really good job. He stepped up tonight, which allowed Jake a bit more freedom and a bit more time to get into the game."

The Eels are unsure when they will have Moses back after surgery on his finger, but there is some hope he could return a fortnight before the finals.

Parramatta have South Sydney, Canterbury, Brisbane and Melbourne on the run home, potentially needing to win all four to make the top four.

But in Moses' absence, they showed their attack can still fire.

Arthur aside, Clint Gutherson was brilliant as he set up three first-half tries and scored one of his own after a Shaun Lane offload from within his own end.

Junior Paulo and Reagan Campbell-Gillard continue to be the best front-row pairing in the NRL, completely shifting the match back in the Eels' favour when they returned to the field midway through the second half.

And Dylan Brown was also superb, taking command to dictate play without Moses and also scoring a try of his own late.

"I said to him that it's the best he has stepped up without Mitch there," Arthur said.

"He stepped up as the senior playmaker and let Jake work himself into the game without too much pressure."

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