Johnathan Thurston has praised Parramatta Eels player Mitchell Moses for his efforts against the Cowboys last weekend.

He predicts Moses will play a critical role in the NRL grand final on Sunday.

Speaking during his regular weekly segment on Wide World of Sports, the NRL legend and commentator said Moses’ efforts despite a busy week personally, was very impressive.

“It was just a real mature performance with his kicking game, the way that he got his players back in the game,” he told Peter Psaltis.

“I thought it was a real coming of age for Mitch Moses … I think he is going to be the difference with them winning or losing.”

He is predicting it will be “one of the great” grand finals, with a lot of pressure on the Eels since it’s been more than 30 years since they tasted premiership success.

“It’s hard to go past, Penrith,” he said.

“My heart is saying the Parramatta Eels, but my head is saying the Penrith Panthers.

“I think the Panthers will be too strong against the Parramatta Eels.”

Press PLAY below to hear his tips for Sunday