Parramatta's mid-season surge will be put on hold for a week but coach Brad Arthur believes next week's NRL bye is coming at a good time for his in-form side.
The Eels knocked off competition front-runners Melbourne 22-6 at AAMI Park, taking advantage of the depleted Storm's six-strong presence in Queensland's State of Origin side.
It was Parramatta's third-straight win and their fifth in six matches as they shored up their top eight berth.
With skipper Tim Mannah a first half casualty after a head knock and the likes of Josh Hoffman (knee), Frank Pritchard (foot) already among those sidelined through injury, Arthur said he would happily take the bye.
"We need a bit of a break and then we can sit back and have a look at our run, hopefully to be playing after round 26," Arthur said.
Parramatta halves Mitch Moses and Corey Norman outplayed young Storm duo Brodie Croft and Ryley Jacks and Arthur believed there was still plenty of improvement in his pairing.
Moses left Wests Tigers after round 10 while Norman returned from knee injury last month.
"I think both our halves are getting the right balance," Arthur said.
"They've only had four games together and it takes time; you need pre-seasons together and they've only had a few weeks and they're still learning."
Winger Semi Radradra stunned the Storm early and finished with 199 metres, four line breaks and a try.
Arthur said Radradra, who will depart Australia to link up with Top 14 rugby club Toulon at the end of the NRL season, showed he still has plenty to offer.
"Semi had a real purpose about him tonight," Arthur said.
"He gave a real boost and lift to the boys and we need that.
"It's a real encouraging sign that he's got some unfinished business at the club."
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