Ok, yes I am optimistic, and here is my reasoning:
* We sit on 10 points, we have a bye after this round, and 9 rounds to go.
* We have a reasonably easy run home, even for Manly!
* Next 4 games are not that difficult, H - Dragons, Bye, H- Warriors, A- Rabbits, H- Knights.
* Win those games and we sit on 20 points, and a bunch of confidence.
* Parcell to add some spark, Miles to add some defence.
* Now have A- Eels, A- Dogs, H- Storm, H - Raiders, A- Panthers.
Sure, everything depends on us not getting further injuries or all bets are off. But I think the Bye has come at a critical time for our wounded troops, and while playing the Eels and Dogs away seems daunting task now, that's 6 weeks away, and it's amazing how things can change when a bit of confidence envelopes.
All I'm saying is, I'm not throwing the towel in just yet. 26/1 to make the 8 is a price that we have never seen, and may never see again.
Disclaimer: I am not on the whacky tobaccy, or the sauce, just positive that there won't be any wooden spoon hanging in our trophy cabinet any time soon. And, it's quite possible Trent (yeah nah) Barrett, just may end up being a genius!