Last Played: Eels v Broncos

The Eels competed strongly though, outgunning the Broncos in territory (1545 metres to 1329 metres) – but their high error count (16) let them down. Both fullbacks were outstanding, with Josh Hoffman running 186 metres and Burt running 188 metres.

The Broncos, with Corey Norman deputising for Darren Lockyer and with a host of other Origin stars rested, rolled the Eels 16-12 on a slippery Parramatta Stadium surface in Round 17 last year. The visitors led 6-nil at halftime and crossed again shortly after the break before a Luke Burt try-double rocketed the Eels back into calculations. Matt Gilllett scored the match-winner five minutes from time.