It will be the first of two trials as the Eels prepare for their round one match against Brisbane at Parramatta Stadium on Friday, March 2.

Talking points:¦As predicted, marquee signing Chris Sandow will join forces with former Bulldog Ben Roberts in the halves.

¦Another new recruit, Esi Tonga, and Ryan Morgan will be given first crack in the centres with Esi's brother Willie still injured.

¦Backrowers turn centres, Ben Smith and Justin Horo will return to the back row in 2012.

¦Promising youngsters Mitchell Allgood and Ken Sio winning starting spots in the front row and wing, respectively.

¦It appears Matt Keating will start the season in the No.9 jumper with Casey McGuire reverting to the bench.

¦ Veteran Nathan Hindmarsh and Luke Burt named in their familiar positions of second row and wing.

Eels fullback Jarryd Hayne told the Sun he was looking forward to season 2012.

"I'm really looking forward to this season," Hayne said.

"This is our last week of pre season training and then I'm sure the nerves will kick in for the first game.

"Our roster this year is really good and I'm sure if everyone plays to their ability we'll do better than last year."

The star fullback has enjoyed a rare injury-free pre-season and has worked hard on his fitness and building up combinations with halves Chris Sandow and Ben Roberts.

Among a series of contenders he nominated Penrith recruit Joseph Paulo as the man he was most impressed in a gruelling pre-season that spanned from the Central Coast to Armidale.

"For me Joseph has been really a standout," Hayne said.

"He has been working hard and holding his own especially in the longer runs.

"All the younger guys have been impressive and are pushing the older guys with their fitness."