Clint Gutherson upbeat despite Eels ‘shambles’ in previous rounds

Parramatta Eels star Clint Gutherson labelled his team’s run of form a ‘shambles’ as they look to stop the Storm’s historic winning streak.

Clint Gutherson was delighted his side arrested its poor run of form. Picture: Chris Hyde / Getty Images

After over a month without a victory, the Parramatta Eels finally arrested a horror run of form with a strong win over North Queensland.

The Eels had won just four games from 11 going into their clash against the Cowboys last Saturday, leading star Clint Gutherson to label his side a “shambles”.

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But with the finals just a few weeks away, and the Eels still within touching distance of a fourth-place finish, Gutherson believes the win gives the side a momentum boost just when they need it most.

“Yeah, it’s big. I think that win on the weekend really helped us, just to get a bit of confidence in everyone all over the shop,” Gutherson said.

“It’s been a bit of a shambles the last month, and to be able to get that win, you can just tell throughout the week the last few days have been a lot more positive, and I think we really needed that.

“It was still a bit scrappy, and we still have a few things to work on, but to get the win at this time of year was crucial.”

The Eels celebrate during their round 23 victory over the Cowboys. Picture: Chris Hyde / Getty Images

If the Eels are to build on their win against the Cowboys, they will have to do it in historic circumstances.

Gutherson’s side is the only thing standing between the Melbourne Storm breaking the record for the longest win streak by an NRL team, as Craig Bellamy’s side sits equal with the Sydney Roosters of 1975 with a remarkable 19 wins in a row.

Parramatta will have to do it all without Fijian flyer Maika Sivo, after he was ruled out with an ACL and MCL injury that sidelines him up until next season.

Brad Arthur named Blake Ferguson in the starting line-up for the Eels, and it’s a move Gutherson was delighted to see.

“He’s (Ferguson) looking good. It’s come at the right time,” Gutherson said.

“He’s looking healthy, he’s looking fit.

“We need Fergo this time of year. He’s been there, he’s done that.

“Those types of carries that he does have, he’s an extra front rower out there and we need him to be at his best when we play the bigger teams, and it comes no bigger this week.”

Ferguson, who won a premiership with the Roosters, has been in and out of Brad Arthur’s side throughout the season after his defensive skills were called into question in the Eels’ loss to the Rabbitohs in round 12.

The winger was axed from the Eels after that game, but eventually made his return in round 19 against the Raiders.

He will need to be at his brilliant best against the Melbourne Storm on Saturday at Suncorp Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7:35pm AEST.