Key Matchups
Jordan Rapana vs Semi Radradra
As two of the quickest and most damaging wingers in the NRL, the matchup between Rapana and Radradra on the Raiders right-edge, Eels left-edge, could prove pivotal in the outcome of the match.
Both players are capable of pulling off some spectacular individual efforts and are dangerous anytime they get their hands on the ball. Both teams rely heavily on the pair in attack and gaining yardage out of defence so expect plenty of ball heading towards them.
In attack it is hard to say who has the edge over the other, so the difference may come in defence and who can keep the other under control.
Jack Wighton vs Bevan French
Two different playing styles will clash in this matchup when we see whether the strength and power of Wighton will trump the speed and agility of French.
Wighton is known for his bone-crushing tackles in defence and his strength when charging at the line or bringing the ball back for a kick return. Much smaller in stature, Bevan French’s dazzling speed and fancy footwork makes him a handful for opposition tacklers.
Shannon Boyd vs Tim Mannah
The young bull will come up against the old work-horse when these two big bodies battle it out in the middle of the field on Saturday.
Boyd is one of the most promising up and coming forwards in the game, but coming up against the experience and robustness of Mannah, could shape the way the match unfolds.
The co-captain of the Eels is one of the NRL's favourite sons, with his passion for the team only outmatched by the size of his eyebrows. If Mannah is able to stop Boyd from gaining too many metres in the middle of the field and stop him from getting away a late offload, it could give the Eels the platform they need to run away with the game.
Quote of the Week
"They've helped me grow and learn new things, like learning new lines to run, so for me given my age it's nice to still learn a few things."
Sia Soliola talks about moving into the backrow and playing alongside Leipana and Blake Austin.
Head-to-Head
The Raiders and Eels have been very evenly matched over the years, with both teams winning 27 matches each in their head-to-head history. The Eels haven't won at GIO Stadium since 2006, with the Raiders winning their last six encounters on home turf.
Team Lists
As of Tuesday, March 28.
| Canberra Raiders | Parramatta Eels |
| 1. Jack Wighton | 1. Bevan French |
| 2. Nick Cotric | 2. Semi Radradra |
| 3. Jarrod Croker (C) | 3. Michael Jennings |
| 4. Joey Leilua | 4. Brad Takairangi |
| 5. Jordan Rapana | 5. Josh Hoffman |
| 6. Blake Austin | 6. Clint Gutherson |
| 7. Aidan Sezer | 7. Corey Norman |
| 8. Junior Paulo | 8. Suaia Matagi |
| 9. Josh Hodgson | 9. Kaysa Pritchard |
| 10. Shannon Boyd | 10. Tim Mannah (C) |
| 11. Josh Papalii | 11. Manu Ma’u |
| 12. Sia Soliola | 12. Tepai Moeroa |
| 13. Clay Priest | 13. Beau Scott (C) |
| 14. Adam Clydsdale | 14. Nathan Brown |
| 15. Luke Bateman | 15. Daniel Alvaro |
| 16. Dave Taylor | 16. Frank Pritchard |
| 17. Joe Tapine | 17. Siosaia Vave |
| 18. Jordan Turner | 18. David Gower |
| 19. Scott Sorensen | 19. Peni Terepo |
| 20. Dunamis Lui | 20. Jeff Robson |
| 21. Zac Santo | 21. George Jennings |
GAME DAY GUIDE: RAIDERS V EELS
