The Parramatta Eels have endured a rollercoaster of a season, but if the last few weeks are any indication, Jason Ryles’ men may finally be finding some rhythm at just the right time. After what was widely considered a rocky beginning to life under their rookie head coach, the Eels have gradually shown improvement in both effort and execution. While that hasn’t always been reflected in the win column, their recent performances suggest a team building momentum and belief heading into the crucial late rounds of the NRL campaign.
Earlier in the season, Parramatta struggled for consistency and, at times, looked short of answers. Ryles, new to first-grade head coaching duties, was placed under the microscope almost immediately as the Eels’ attack lacked fluency and their defensive systems wavered. Critics were quick to highlight the gap between potential and performance, especially for a side boasting such a talented roster. However, the past month has seen the Eels shake off some of those doubts and string together results that have not only boosted their confidence but also disrupted the finals ambitions of some heavyweight clubs.
It began with a stunning victory over the Brisbane Broncos in hostile territory. Very few gave Parramatta a chance, but Ryles’ side silenced the doubters by showing grit, determination, and a willingness to dig in for one another. That triumph served as a turning point, proving that the Eels were capable of pulling off an upset when they committed to their game plan.
The momentum carried into the following week as they faced the North Queensland Cowboys. In a match that swung back and forth, the Eels displayed resilience and a refusal to give in, snatching a last-gasp win that had their fans buzzing. It wasn’t just about the two competition points—it was about proving they could handle pressure moments and execute when it mattered most.
If those two wins weren’t enough to convince the critics, their performance against the Sydney Roosters last week surely did. The Roosters entered the contest as one of the form teams of the competition, riding high after a string of dominant displays. Yet Parramatta defied the odds again, producing what many are calling their most complete performance of the season. Their defensive line held strong against relentless attack, while their spine clicked in attack with sharp ball movement and decisive kicking. In the end, the Eels walked away with one of their most satisfying results of 2024, a victory that sent shockwaves through the competition.
Now, as Round 26 approaches, Parramatta’s latest team list carries extra intrigue. Ryles has had to balance injuries, form, and rotation while keeping an eye on the bigger picture. For fans, the announcement signals more than just who will take the field—it represents an opportunity to continue this late-season surge and finish the year on a high note. While finals may remain a long shot, the Eels’ recent displays have restored pride and reminded everyone that Parramatta cannot be written off.
For Jason Ryles, the journey is still in its early stages, but he has already shown signs that he can grow into the role. The wins over Brisbane, North Queensland, and Sydney have lifted the mood around the club and given supporters a reason to believe that brighter days lie ahead. Round 26 will be another test, but one thing is certain: this Eels team is no longer the easy beat they were painted as earlier in the year.