Parramatta Eels may have discovered a worthy successor to departing star Zac Lomax after Sean Russell delivered a standout performance in their commanding 40-6 pre-season victory over an understrength Cronulla Sharks side at the historic Henson Park.
Historic Return to Iconic Venue
Sunday's match marked the first National Rugby League fixture played at the iconic inner-west Sydney ground since 1990, when the Sydney Roosters last utilized it as a home venue. This monumental occasion celebrated Henson Park's return to elite rugby league after a 36-year absence, following an extensive $20 million renovation project that has revitalized the facility.
Prime Minister Celebrates Reopening
The refurbished venue, home to the Newtown Jets, attracted over 9,000 enthusiastic fans who also enjoyed the concurrent Newtown Beer and Footy Festival. Among the spectators was Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who attended with his cavoodle Toto, mingling with supporters and staff to commemorate the ground's official reopening.
'Nothing quite like an arvo of footy at Henson Park - and no better time than the Beer, Footy and Food Festival,' the Prime Minister declared on Instagram, sharing photographs of his interactions with spectators. 'Our upgrades secure the future of this oval for generations to come.'
Albanese emphasized the significance of the venue's enhancements, which include a refurbished King George V Grandstand, four new female-friendly changing rooms, public amenities, a canteen, coaches' boxes, and modern media broadcast facilities. These improvements now enable top-flight NRL and AFL matches to be televised from the ground.
Russell Stakes Claim for Wing Position
As the Eels continue legal proceedings against would-be Melbourne recruit Zac Lomax in the NSW Supreme Court, Sean Russell presented a compelling case for Lomax's former wing position with an impressive display. The 23-year-old contributed a try, an assist, and 114 running metres during the comprehensive victory.
Russell, who lined up in the centres for this match, demonstrated his versatility and attacking prowess. His most memorable moment came when he intercepted a Sharks charge-down, burst past defenders Sifa Talakai and Riley Jones, and completed a spectacular 60-metre run to score a remarkable try in Eels colours.
He earlier combined effectively with new playmaker Jonah Pezet - solid in his first appearance for Parramatta - to create the Eels' second try, reeling in Pezet's high kick and delivering a clever offload for Ryley Smith to cross the line.
Competition for Backline Spots Intensifies
Russell's main competitor for the vacant wing position, Bailey Simonsson, also crossed for a try by capitalizing on a grubber kick from fullback Isaiah Iongi. Eels coach Jason Ryles acknowledged the healthy competition developing within his squad ahead of their round one clash against Melbourne Storm.
'It's a good situation to be in. That's what we want, we want guys fighting for spots. It brings out the best in them,' Ryles commented post-match.
Comprehensive Team Performance
Parramatta established control early, entering halftime with a commanding 22-6 advantage after Pezet's creative play set up lock Matt Doorey, who delivered a flat pass for Teancum Brown to score at close range. The Eels subsequently rested their key players after the break.
Cronulla, fielding only a handful of first-grade regulars including Talakai, Billy Burns, Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton, and Braden Uele, managed just one four-pointer through Samuel McCulloch's try in the final seconds of the first half.
Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon expressed disappointment with the scoreline, stating, 'I thought the scoreboard didn't reflect our early exchanges. The most important thing is we gave a lot of players some opportunities today.'
Minor Disciplinary Concern
The match concluded with a minor disciplinary incident as Parramatta's Jordan Samrani could face scrutiny from the match review committee following a scuffle with Sharks hooker Xavier Cacciotti. Samrani was penalized after running more than 10 metres to confront Cacciotti following a tackle.
Venue's Enduring Legacy
Originally opened in 1938, Henson Park has maintained its significance as a development hub for junior players, with the Sydney Roosters utilizing it for their junior teams alongside the Newtown Jets for many years. Prime Minister Albanese highlighted this enduring legacy in an official statement.
'Henson Park is a part of who we are in the Inner West,' Albanese affirmed. 'Whether it's AFL, NRL or community sport this sets up Henson Park for future generations.'
The convincing victory provides Parramatta with positive momentum as they approach the second season of Ryles's rebuilding project, while marking a triumphant return for one of Sydney's most cherished sporting venues.
