Live: Cowboys suffer huge finals blow as Dragons face Eels

Reuben Cotter's finals campaign has taken a major hit before North Queensland even begins its playoff run. The Cowboys star will miss the first week of the NRL finals after receiving a grade-two careless high-tackle charge for contact with Josh Papali'i against the Raiders.

The Maroons forward's suspension was the main headline as the Dragons and Eels met in Wollongong, both looking to finish their seasons strongly. Penrith could also wrap up the NRL minor premiership if it beats Wests Tigers by more than two points.

Parramatta made the faster start. Jordan Samrani, returning from injury, leapt to collect a delicate chip kick from Mitch Moses and finished an 80-metre move for the opening try. Although officials checked whether he had lost the ball or fallen short, the try stood, and Moses converted from the sideline for a 6-0 lead.

The match also served as another trial of new kickoff rules. After conceding a try, a team can choose whether to kick off or receive the ball. The Dragons immediately let the kickoff bounce 10 centimeters inside the line and out, giving the Eels a scrum on the Dragons' 10-meter line.

The live report described a strong crowd in Wollongong and sunny conditions, with temperatures of 21°C and light winds. Dragons captain Damien Cook led the team out alongside children on Father's Day.