Eels Seek Turnaround Against Bulldogs In Round 3

In a thrilling encounter during Round 3 of the 2025 NRL season, the Parramatta Eels are set to face off against the Canterbury Bulldogs at CommBank Stadium. With kick-off scheduled for 4.05 pm (AEDT), anticipation is high as both teams look to capitalize on their respective journeys through the season.

The Eels, who have experienced a rocky start to the season, are eager for a much-needed win after suffering two heavy defeats against the Melbourne Storm and Wests Tigers, where they conceded a staggering total of 88 points. The absence of star halfback Mitchell Moses, sidelined with a foot injury, has added to their challenges. His experience and playmaking skills will be missed as they look to turn their fortunes around against the Bulldogs.

Former Eels coach Michael Hagan, who has been in similar situations during his coaching tenure, provided some words of wisdom and urged fans to remain patient with the team. “It can turn around quickly in both directions,” Hagan noted. “It’s never as good as it seems, and it’s never as bad as it seems in footy.” These sentiments resonate deeply as Eels fans hope for a turnaround in form.

Meanwhile, the Bulldogs, under the guidance of coach Cameron Ciraldo, have enjoyed a better start to their season. They have impressively secured two wins out of two matches, demonstrating their improved form from the previous year. Ciraldo faced his own challenges in his debut season but has since managed to lead the Bulldogs back into contention for the finals, reflecting the volatile nature of success in the NRL.

Both teams have made strategic changes ahead of this much-anticipated clash. For the Eels, Jason Ryles has opted to drop hooker Brendan Hands in favor of Joey Lussick, marking a decisive move as they search for a lineup that can outperform their recent performances. Lussick will be joined in the starting side by new club signing Josh Addo-Carr, who will be keen to impress against his former squad.

On the other side, the Bulldogs are adjusting to absences of their own, with key players including Matt Burton and Viliame Kikau facing MCL injuries from their recent victory over the Titans. These setbacks have forced Ciraldo to shuffle his lineup, with Sitili Tupouniua stepping into the back row, ready to take on the increased responsibilities.

The matchup will also spotlight individual players. For the Eels, Will Penisini has been a standout despite the team’s struggles, scoring one of their few tries in the early matches. On the Bulldogs’ side, Daniel Suluka-Fifita has also shown his potential and will be a key player to watch.

As the teams prepare for battle, fans can look forward to an exciting game showcasing the intensity and unpredictability that makes rugby league captivating. The match promises to be a showcase of talent, determination, and strategic gameplay, reflective of both coaches' commitment to shaping their squads into competitive teams.

The Parramatta Eels and Canterbury Bulldogs have a storied rivalry marked by exciting encounters and passionate fanbases. With both teams eager for a win, this matchup at CommBank Stadium is set to be a defining moment in their respective seasons.

Kick-off is set for 4.05 pm (AEDT), and fans can catch all the action live on Fox League and Nine, or stream via Kayo Sports and 9Now. As the players take the field, one can only wonder which team will emerge victorious in this crucial encounter.