There were fears the detached retina he suffered during a pre-season trial at Cessnock would force him into retirement.
But after a lengthy recovery period, Cronin returned to an Eels side making the most of the new Parramatta Stadium. In that year, the Eels enjoyed the highest average crowd of any NSWRL side.
Match Highlights: Eels v Bulldogs
Once he returned, his goal-kicking was not what it once was. He entered the grand final with a 46 per cent success rate.
His first shot at goal in the decider sliced to the right. His second hit the post from right in front and the match remained scoreless.