Matty Johns, a former rugby league star and analyst, has weighed in on the performance of Eels halfback Mitchell Moses, urging him to step up ahead of the Eels' crucial match against the Tigers. Johns believes that Moses, a key player for the Eels, needs to take his game to the next level to help the team turn their season around.
Moses, who played a significant role in the Eels' success last year, has been missing from the team for a considerable portion of the current season. The statistics speak for themselves: when Moses is on the field, the Eels' performance is significantly better than when he is absent. This has been a concern for coach Jason Ryles and his staff.
The Eels' recent form has been inconsistent, with heavy losses to the Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers, and only modest wins over the Brisbane Broncos and St George Illawarra Dragons. The upcoming match against the Wests Tigers is a must-win situation for the Eels, and they will be desperate for a victory.
Johns, speaking on SEN Radio, highlighted that Moses is currently playing within his limits, which might be holding the team back. He suggested that Moses needs to take more risks and be more assertive in his playmaking to truly shine. Johns believes that the Eels' forwards also have a role to play in supporting Moses, but ultimately, the halfback's performance is crucial for the team's success.
Moses, a popular choice for the State of Origin team, is expected to partner with Nathan Cleary in the halves. However, his future in the team is uncertain if the Eels continue to struggle. The 31-year-old has had a modest start to the season, with only two try assists and three line break assists in four games. His running game has also been underwhelming, with just 51 metres per game, the lowest since 2018.
In contrast, last year, Moses was a standout performer, finishing with 75 metres per game and kicking for significantly more distance. He also contributed eight try assists in 13 games. The Eels' clash with the Tigers on Easter Monday will be a pivotal moment for the team and Moses, who will be looking to prove his worth and lead the Eels to a much-needed victory.
