NRL Podcast: Halves at centre of Eels' problems, says Soward
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Parramatta's unhappy marriage has to end, according to Jamie Soward.
Corey Norman and Mitchell Moses showed so much promise in their 13 matches together in 2017, but this year they've fired blanks.
2010 NRL Telstra Premiership winner Soward tells the NRL Podcast the halves pairing is the main reason why Eels are wooden-spoon favourites.
"They haven't played great as a team this year. They haven't played great as individuals. It's all stemmed from the halves pairing," Soward said.
"They've floated in and out of games. There's no talk together, they look disjointed, they look like they don't know who's running the side. Their kicking plan has been non-existent all year.
"It's really disappointing because both of those guys are really, really talented."
Numerous reports in 2018 suggest Corey Norman may be released by the club at the end of the season – despite being contracted to the Eels until the end of 2019.
The club has been linked with out-of-favour Canberra Raiders five-eighth Blake Austin.
"[Moses and Norman] are both five-eighths," Soward said.
"Two cars can't fit in the single garage. Two [number] sixes don't work.
"Why would you be in the market for another five-eighth in Blake Austin?
"Why wouldn't you try and target... a directive half that's going to control the game for you.
"Five-eighths just need a controlling halfback."
Soward identified players he would target if he oversaw recruitment at Parramatta. On the latest edition of the NRL Podcast, Soward also outlined the reasons why Brad Fittler could be the long-term coach of New South Wales after winning the 2018 Holden State of Origin series in his first year in charge.
