The premiers have won four on the trot and enter Round 19 on the back of a bye and a stunning victory over the Bulldogs.
That 8-6 triumph in Round 17 had finals football written all over it as the Panthers' big guns stood tall to remind everyone that their quest for a fifth straight title is very much alive.
If the Panthers are to keep the roll going much will depend on how Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin, Dylan Edwards and Brian To'o come through Origin Three and whether they back up.
The Eels will have a keen eye on how star winger Zac Lomax comes through Wednesday night's decider as his aerial ability is critical to their chances of avenging an 18-10 loss to Penrith in Round 13.
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Team News
Eels: Former Tiger Tallyn Da Silva has been named on the interchange for his first game as an Eel. Charlie Guymer starts in place of Kelma Tuilagi (suspended) while Sam Tuivaiti returns from a syndesmosis injury on the bench. Experienced outside back Bailey Simonsson is listed among the reserves after returning from a foot injury through NSW Cup last week.
Panthers: Coach Ivan Cleary has listed his five Origin stars in the reserves and will make a final call later in the week on Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin, Dylan Edwards and Brian To'o. Should Cleary not back up, Brad Schneider will call the shots at halfback while Daine Laurie, Paul Alamoti, Matt Eisenhuth and Isaiah Papali'i are all in the 17 as it stands and ready to step up.
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Stat Attack
- The Eels have lost seven from eight against top-eight teams.
- The Panthers have won their past three games against the Eels.
- Eels winger Josh Addo-Carr requires one try for 150 NRL tries.
- The Panthers have won 20 of their last 23 daytime games.
- Eels prop Junior Paulo will play his 200th game for the club
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the