Star forward issues open letter to fans following ‘rough patch’

Parramatta Eels have won just once in their past five games and star forward Junior Paulo has issued a heartfelt plea to supporters to stick together with the side.

Prior to the past five weeks, the Eels had won three games in a row to sit pretty inside the top four of the play-offs.

However, since then, both Sydney and Manly have piled the pressure on with the Roosters now level on points with Parramatta and the Sea Eagles just two points behind.

And, with a tough run-in, the Eels’ spot in the top four could soon be lost.

To make matters worse, the Australian lockdown has imposed tough new restrictions on the general public, creating a much more hostile atmosphere anyway.

However, Paulo has spoken openly about the troubles the Eels have faced and called on supporters to continue their backing of the side.

“The last few weeks have been tough,” Paulo wrote.

“Real tough.

“Not just for us players and not just on the footy field.

“Off the footy field, for our supporters and for those back home battling the lockdown.

“We are the same Parramatta team we were at the start of the season.

“We want to be able to give back to you, our supporters, and show we are a top four team and up for the challenge each and every week.