Parra pack won't be intimidated in 2011
Parramatta won't be intimidated by any NRL forwards in 2011, with Eels prop Tim Mannah saying the club's new signings will bring a mongrel edge to the monster pack.
Parramatta's forwards failed to aim up in 2010, arguably the club's most disappointing season in the past decade, but Mannah is adamant the Eels pack will not be a concern as they look to rebound next year.
Even without evergreen prop Nathan Cayless, who retired after 14 decorated seasons in first grade, Mannah is confident the club has recruited the type of characters that can give Parramatta an edge.
Firebrand prop Carl Webb has been lured from North Queensland, while former Australian representative Reni Maitua will look to rebuild his career after serving a two-year drug ban.
"Obliviously it's going to be good to have Carl and Reni at the club," Mannah told AAP.
"They've both got good reputations in the league as tough players.
"I'm a bit younger and growing up I loved watching them play so it's going to be a good addition to our side.
"They'll add a bit of mongrel to the forward pack as well which is something which will be handy in our squad.
"We're definitely looking forward to that."
With Cayless's retirement, Mannah is aware of a starting front-row spot opening up - but the talented 22-year-old, who made his NSW Origin debut this season, isn't claiming it just yet.
Despite having a bumper season, Mannah is well aware he has a fight on his hands to work his way off the bench with Webb joining representative front-rowers Fuifui Moimoi and Justin Poore in a four-way battle for the two starting spots.
"Obviously any player strives to be a starting player, but I'm at an age where I'm happy to do what is best for the team," he said.
"If putting the team first means coming off the bench, then so be it. But it's good to have a bit of healthy competition.
"At the moment there's me, Fui, Justin Poore and Webby fighting as well.
"We've got a few players striving for starting spots and it will bring out the best in us (in pre-season training) from now until Christmas.
"Personally, looking ahead there's so many more goals I want to achieve, and now that I've got a bit of a taste of rep footy, it'd be nice to get your foot in the door.
"You want to do what's best for your team and at the moment that means getting Parramatta back on track."
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