Eels to bring 'mongrel' mentality to NRLW

If straight-talking Parramatta skipper Simaima Taufa has things her way the Eels would lift the NRLW premiership trophy in their very first year.

Parramatta are one of three new clubs in the expanded six-team NRLW that kicks off on Sunday, with the Eels facing fellow newcomers Newcastle.

The Gold Coast are the competition's other new side.

The Eels, who will be coached by Dean Widders, have been installed as third-choice favourites behind reigning champions Brisbane and the Sydney Roosters.

And it's clear to see why.

Parramatta's squad includes strike backs Botille Vette-Welsh and Tiana Penitani, the guile of halfback Maddie Studdon and a powerful pack fronted by Kennedy Cherrington and Taufa.

Even with such talent, Taufa has only one way to describe how she wants her team to play.

"Mongrel," she says, bluntly.

"That's how we'll play. We will be tough and competitive.

"People say inaugural teams are just going along for the ride, but with the talent we've got we aren't going to do that.

"We'll put our bodies on the line and be willing to work hard for everyone and to never take a backward step.

"If we are doubting ourselves heading into this competition, then why are we even in the comp?

"We don't want to just be happy to be part of this.

"We've busted our arses off and we're in it to win it."

Taufa was one of the players to have switched clubs as part of the NRL's aim to equalise talent.

The Tonga-born Jillaroos forward left the Roosters for the Eels and was immediately handed the captaincy.

She hopes her presence can encourage more women in Sydney's outer suburbs to play rugby league.

"I think if you can't see it, you can't be it," she said.

"There's so much talent out west. Now there's a clear pathway to go to the top