Parramatta's prize forward Nathan Hindmarsh predicted the Eels would be a thorn in the side of NRL heavyweights Sydney Roosters and Penrith following their 44-22 thrashing of Cronulla at Toyota Park on Saturday night.

The consistent Hindmarsh was again outstanding for the Eels, who dealt a savage blow to the Sharks' flickering chances of making the NRL finals starting next month.

The NSW Origin back-rower made 24 hit-ups for a 185m gain and 31 tackles in a stellar 80-minute performance which had coach Brian Smith raving.

The Eels have conceded defeat in the race for the finals but that hasn't stopped Hindmarsh from declaring they will be prove a handful for top four sides Penrith and the Roosters in their final two matches of 2004.

"It's always good to come off the season with a win, even if it's a non semi-final game. I think it's a positive thing," said Hindmarsh, who used the bye last week to relax in his hometown of Robertson.

"We're not going to go out there and lie down. We'll definitely be a nuisance, don't worry about that."

Smith revealed that Hindmarsh had relayed a message to him via assistant coach Jason Taylor after the opening eight minutes.

"I can't tell you what Jason said but basically it was along the lines that Nathan was tired," said Smith about Taylor's colourful language.

"How he does what he does ... I've said it too many times, I have no idea.

"It's not just the volume of work but the quality of work. He's an amazing footballer."

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