Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers ready for hot reception in Alice Springs

THE Eels and Tigers are set to clash in heatwave temperature’s in their opening trial of the year in Alice Springs on Friday night.

West Tigers open training session pics

THE Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers are set to clash in heatwave temperature’s in their opening trial of the year in Alice Springs on Friday night.

With the temperature set to peak at 38 degrees, both clubs are preparing to keep players well-hydrated to combat the searing heat.

The Tigers will play their first game under new coach Jason Taylor while Parramatta prepare for their first outing in the 13-a-side version of the game in the post-Jarryd Hayne era.

With Will Hopoate rested, the player given the task of filling Hayne’s role for tonight’s game is former Dragon Adam Quinlan.

Adam Quinlan playing for the Dragons.

Looking to earn a place in the Eels round one line-up, Quinlan isn’t concerned about trying to fill Hayne’s shoes.

“I haven’t thought about that at all, he’s a player that is irreplaceable to Parramatta and the game itself,” Quinlan said.

“There are plenty of options for the fullback role with Will Hopoate there as well as a few youngsters coming through.”

Both clubs deserve praise for taking the trial to the middle of Australia, a region renowned for its blistering heat.

Eels Training.

Friday’s trial will mark the second year in a row the Eels and Tigers have ventured to Alice Springs.

Club medical officers will monitor players in the extreme conditions, with Eels fullback Quinlan underlining how hydration was crucial.

“As soon as we got off the plane we realised how hot it is here,” Quinlan said.

“I’m constantly drinking water throughout the day as everyone has been, to make sure we’re very hydrated in the conditions.”

West's Tigers players go in hard during an open training session.

The Tigers have named a strong squad for the game with Aaron Woods, Robbie Farah and Mitch Moses all having their first run after bypassing the Auckland Nines.

Eels fans will keep a close eye on John Folau, the younger brother of dual international Israel Folau, as well as reformed bad boy Danny Wicks.

With blazing speed, Quinlan looks a valuable signing after moving to the Eels last month and is confident the side is shaping up well for the trial.

“Hopefully we can get out there and put in a good all-round performance and show all the things that the boys have been working on during the pre-season.”

Originally published as Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers ready for hot reception in Alice Springs