Much has changed for the pair since their first appearance together in 2011. Back then, Sandow was the dominant half while Nathan Peats was in his debut season.

At Parramatta, Peats has been an automatic selection at hooker, while Sandow was forced to reclaim his spot in the top squad via the NSW Cup this year.

“That 2011 season ... that was his best season before he came over here,” Peats said. “I know what he is capable of. If he can get back to that form it’ll be good for us.

“Hopefully he can.”

Sandow was strong in his comeback to the top grade in the Eels 32-16 victory over Penrith. While the pair played 20 games together at South Sydney, Peats started all his games from the bench and played regularly at lock.

“He is still the same Chrissy,” Peats said. “He loves a joke and a good time. He is a confidence player and the more confidence he gets the better he’ll be for us.

“[Saturday] was the first time we played nine and seven alongside each other. Hopefully we can get a few more games together and our combinations get better and better. You like to play with someone you’ve played with before and you know what they’ve got and what you have to offer each other.”

Peats has settled into the full-time hooking role, playing his third consecutive 80-minute game last Saturday. He went the distance just once last year – playing lock.

“It’s what I want to do,” Peats said. “The body pulls up sore but that’s what our jobs are at hooker. I love playing 80 minutes and in the middle of the field with all the rough stuff.

“That’s one of the main reasons I came here. In 2011 and 2012 I was playing a lot of minutes and full games.

“Last year was a bit frantic, some weeks I’d get 30 or 40 minutes and then I’d get 10 minutes. I would be a little bit frantic coming on like a headless chook. You’ve got to be more composed [when you play 80 minutes].

“I’ve played a fair few games and I know – not so much to pace yourself – but you’ve got to know what you have to do.”

After a 52-point round two drubbing to the Roosters, Parramatta bounced back with a heartbreaking loss to Manly before beating the high-flying Panthers.

Peats said coach Brad Arthur had reserved his praise.

“He gives you praise when you deserve it but like the rest of us you don’t want to give praise and blow our heads up too big,” Peats said.