advanced to the finals finishing in 5th position which meant a tough away trip in the first round to face the 4th-placed New Zealand Warriors in New Zealand. The Eels managed to upset the Warriors 12-10 despite a late charge from the hosts. This earned the Eels a home semi final match against long-time rivals the Bulldogs. The Eels also won this match comfortably, earning them a preliminary final showdown with the Melbourne Storm at Melbourne's Telstra Dome. The Eels were gallant in defeat, losing 24–10, whilst Melbourne ultimately went on to win the Grand Final. Following a relatively disappointing 2008 season, Michael Hagan ended his head coaching role at the Parramatta Eels citing family reasons and health. In 2010 he returned to coaching, being appointed the Maroons assistant coach. The Daily Telegraph Hagan has made journalistic contributions to 'League Central' section of The Daily Telegraph. He provides his opinions on current League issues as well as evaluating team form and performances. References External links Queensland Representatives at qrl.com.au Canterbury Bulldogs profile 1964 births Living people Australian rugby league coaches Australian rugby league players Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs players Halifax R.L.F.C. players Hunter Mariners people Newcastle Knights captains Newcastle Knights coaches Newcastle Knights players Parramatta Eels coaches Queensland Rugby League State of Origin coaches Queensland Rugby League State of Origin players Rugby league centres Rugby league five-eighths Rugby league halfbacks Rugby league players from Brisbane