Mitchell Brassington, NYC Eels 2013. Picture: Parramatta Eels
AT the start of the season Parramatta Eels Holden Cup coach Andrew Webster said one of his main goals was to get as many of his players into the NRL.
Well, two weeks down and he has already had two players make the step up to the big time.
Vai Toutai and Kelepi Tanginoa have retained their places in Ricky Stuart's team after impressive debuts in the blue and gold against the Bulldogs.
But for the under-20s team it means they have lost two of their most valuable players — and it showed last week.
Leading 18-4, the NYC team conceded 32 unanswered points to a very impressive Bulldogs outfit.
The final scoreline of 32-24 flattered the home team after starting strong in perfect conditions at ANZ Stadium.
Best for the young Eels were Mitchell Brasington, John Folau and Luke Vescio. The team will be boosted by the return of boom forward Frazer Masinamua for Friday night's Wests Tigers clash.