The Parramatta Eels have vowed to handle the heat and ambush the Cowboys in North Queensland this Friday as they look to qualify for their first Grand Final since 2009.
The Eels had earlier lost to the Cowboys 35-4 in the eighth round this season.
The Parramatta side has recorded just two wins in the Townsville region since 2000, with their last 14 trips resulting in 11 defeats and a draw.
Despite the adversity, Eels second-rower Ryan Matterson says the side will be ready to deliver an ambush against the home town favourites, and it is always a tough game when travelling up north, especially now with the way they are playing.
Meanwhile, Maika Sivo and Waqa Blake are expected to feature for the Eels this week.
The Eels will play the Cowboys at 9.50pm Friday in the first preliminary final, while the Panthers will meet the Rabbitohs at 9.50pm Saturday in the second preliminary final.
[Source: NRL]
