Parramatt's Nathan Brown is relishing the prospect of testing himself against Cowboys star Jason Taumalolo. Credit:AAP Instead of running out for the Rabbitohs on Friday night, he will be running out against them. Asked why he wasn't afforded the opportunity to properly display his wares while wearing the cardinal and myrtle, the bustling back-rower chuckled: "Because I wasn't 115 kilograms like all the other boys at Souths. I was the littlest bloke in that team, that's for sure." He may not be as big in stature or reputation when compared to his former Bunnies teammates, but no one can question the size of Brown's motor. "I don't think anyone realised the engine he's got, the amount of work he can get through," fellow Eels forward David Gower said. "He's got a sloppy rig, but he's got a fantastic motor. He's aggressive and does a lot of work every week."

Sometimes Brown has been too aggressive. The City Origin forward often found himself offside with officials and his coaches at South Sydney for acts of ill discipline, but appears to have struck the right balance under Parramatta coach Brad Arthur. In joining the likes of Nathan Hindmarsh, Nathan Cayless, Timana Tahu, Tim Mannah and Jarryd Hayne as Ken Thornett medal recipients, Brown is now best and fairest."I was young and enthusiastic coming into first grade, I had a lot of energy," Brown said. "I came here this year and channelled that the right way. I've matured a lot as a player and for that I have to thank everyone at this club." Brown is giving Parramatta plenty of bang for their buck. He arrived at the Eels on a modest contract, making him one of the buys of the year. Souths are likely regretting their decision to punt him, but the 24-year-old isn't seeking revenge when the teams clash on Friday night at ANZ Stadium. "It's not about proving anything. You have your ego, but you don't need to prove anything to anyone, it's just about doing your best job for the team," Brown said. "They've going to try to finish on a high and it's always good fun versing your mates."

Brown isn't the only Eel in sublime form as the finals approach. Semi Radradra bagged four tries in the upset win against Brisbane in what he described as the best performance of his career. Radradra isn't sure if and when he will return to the Eels. Which is why he is attempting to finish his NRL stint with a premiership and the tag of game's best winger. "I want to leave on a high for Parra. I want to win a comp this year before I head off to France," Radradra said. "I want to give something back to the club and the fans." Radradra has signed a two-year deal with French rugby outfit Toulon, although the option is in his favour for the second season. The 25-year-old could potentially be back at the Eels as early as next June and there is speculation the club will keep salary cap space available for his return. However, Radradra said the 15-man game was now his top priority.

"I signed for two years in France, I want to honour my contract," Radradra said. "I am a man of my word. It's a big thing for me, I just want to finish my contract and see what happens. "I'll let my manager do the rest. I want to focus on footy and finish on a high note for Parra." Radradra said he was determined to prove himself the best winger in either code. Loading

"When I first came here that's what I wanted to do, be the best winger," he said. "Every time I jump on the field I want to be the best in my position. It takes a lot of work, a lot of courage. I keep working on it."