Mitchell Moses says Parramatta’s current senior group of players have plenty of time to overcome the longest title drought in the NRL.
Moses is eager to emphasize that the Eels have a point to prove in 2024 after making it to the grand final in 2022 but losing out on the finals.
The halfback, like other important players in Brad Arthur’s team, was upfront about his desire to win a premiership, but he rejected the idea that it was now or never.
Over the course of the next year, Moses, captain Clint Gutherson, and the backrow tandem of Ryan Matterson, Shaun Lane, and Bryce Cartwright will all celebrate turning thirty.
Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Junior Paulo, the front-row players, will turn 31 later this year, but Moses is certain that their 38-year title drought won’t be shortened by that fact.
“I think we had the squad to do it last year,” stated Moses.
We simply had a few of injuries and disciplinary issues that need to be resolved.
“We had a chance to play in the finals, but we need to be accountable for those that are injured.
“I feel like I could play for a while and I still have four or five years left here. I don’t feel like time is passing.”
“It’s a work in progress at the moment and we’ve got to wait for the season to start and start well.”
Dylan Brown, Moses’ halves partner, was suspended for seven games after an intoxicating incident in a Sydney nightclub. This was just one of numerous flashpoints that contributed to Parramatta’s season unravelling.
Moses is excited to watch Brown, 23, maintain his stellar play in New Zealand’s victory against Australia in the final Test of the season.
“I thought he was outstanding and probably the best player on the field,” remarked Moses.
“He brings a lot of energy and has carried it into the preseason.
“He’s usually an excellent trainer, so I don’t think he has anything to prove.
“In light of what transpired the previous year, he wishes to improve in that area.
“He’s still a kid and people forget he’s learning from that, but hopefully he is in for a big year.”
