Read + Write + Report
Home | Start a blog | About Orble | FAQ | Sites | Writers | Advertise | My Orble | Login

NRL News - by Craig Hill

Bulldogs Defeat Sea Eagles

March 15th 2009 05:08
Teenage centre Jamal Idris and former Cronulla winger Bryson Goodwin bagged two tries each as the 2008 wooden-spooners completed a horror week for the premiers at ANZ Stadium.

In just his fourth first grade game, Idris announced his arrival as a force in 2009 when he scored the Dogs' first four-pointer with a bulldozing run through three would-be Manly defenders.

The 18-year-old was then on the end of an overlap in the 27th minute to grab his second.

"He's obviously a pretty big kid," Dogs captain Andrew Ryan said of the 106kg Idris.

"He made his first grade debut and sort of lobbed up and was asking people why he wasn't feeling nervous.

"That's just the way he is but he just needs to keep learning.

"It's pretty good to be standing over the other side of the field watching him shrug away tackles."

Bulldogs coach Kevin Moore said it wouldn't be difficult keeping the dreadlocked centre's feet on the ground.

"He's a terrific natured kid," he said.

"We've got some pretty good people around, some senior people ... there's any number of blokes that are going to keep him grounded.

"He's the sort of kid that not too much fazes him at the moment, he's only 18 and he just turns up. It's like a game of park footy for him.

"He's got a lot to improve on too, he probably struggled toward the back-end of the game. He loses his legs towards the end of the game, he's still struggling probably with that pace of the game at first grade and playing 80 minutes." Goodwin, 23, is the third son of St George legend "Lord" Ted Goodwin to play first grade after brothers Luke and Bronx.

He had played nine first grade games with the Sharks before Saturday night, when he was on hand to cross out wide in the 37th and 50th minutes.

Ryan said he'd had "no idea" the rebuilt Dogs, who signed big names Brett Kimmorley, Michael Ennis, Ben Hannant, David Stagg and Josh Morris in the off-season, would click so early.

"It's been a huge build-up for us over the off-season, especially with all the new guys coming on board," Ryan said.

"I've never seen a club that's had so many new guys on a roster.

" ... There's been so many changes and credit to the coaching staff, we've gone away and done a few camps together and we've really bonded quite quickly and I think it shows in our performance." Manly captain Matt Orford, who deflected any suggestion that the sexual assault charge against star fullback Brett Stewart last week had contributed to the loss, gave the Bulldogs the early-season thumbs up.

"I think the Dogs are really going to trouble some teams this year, they're going to surprise a lot of people," he said.

Canterbury Bulldogs Logo


68
Vote
   


Manly have become the first Australian side in six years to clinch rugby league's World Club Challenge, emphatically snatching the title from Leeds.

There was plenty of spice in the 28-20 victory at Elland Road in front of 32,569 fans with brawls erupting during the match.

During a fiery opening half Sea Eagles backrower Anthony Watmough smashed Leeds No.7 Rob Burrow, putting him out of the game while Manly's Josh Perry and Leeds enforcer Jamie Peacock traded blows and were both sent to the sin bin.

Video referee Steve Ganson lived up to his reputation for controversy by awarding Leeds' Jamie Jones-Buchanan an extremely contentious try before Manly took a 12-4 halftime lead.

Sea Eagles try-scoring machine Brett Stewart crossed the line for his second four-pointer of the match two minutes into the second session and Watmough got his second from the restart.

From there, the NRL premiers weren't headed with the Rhinos finishing strongly with a try in the dying seconds of the clash.

Manly Sea-Eagles Logo


63
Vote
   


Manly overcame a 20-0 half-time deficit to beat London Super League club Harlequins 34-26 in a trial match on Sunday.

Testing combinations ahead of the Sea Eagles' World Club Challenge clash with Leeds on March 1, coach Des Hasler started with a largely inexperienced side in the first half, but a near full-strength team fought back after the break.

Harlequins were off to a 4-0 lead within the opening minutes after Jon Wells collected Danny Orr's grubber kick and ran over for a try.

The home team doubled their advantage when former Manly player Chad Randall passed off to Quins captain Rob Purdham.

Randall was instrumental again when he made a solo run halfway down the field for a try of his own.

Manly found Quins defence impenetrable despite a number of attempts with five minutes remaining in the first term.

Orr's long kick to Luke Dorn then resulted in yet another try for Harlequins, who went to the break with a 20-point buffer.

But with a far more experienced side on the pitch, Manly took control of the second half, thanks to two early tries to Michael Robertson with captain Matt Orford playing a role.

Quins still looked dangerous and pushed their advantage back out to 24-10 through David Howell, but a David Williams try, followed by a 30-metre effort from Brett Stewart, which Jamie Lyon converted had the visitors within four points.

They drew level when Chris Bailey smacked the ball back to a Glenn Stewart, who off-loaded to Lyon.

The former St Helens player ran over and then converted to put the Sea Eagles in front for the first time, 28-26.

A late try and conversion by Steve Matai sealed the result for the NRL premiers.

AAP

Manly Sea Eagles
77
Vote
   


Manly's entire World Club Challenge squad is expected to play in Sunday's warm-up game against London Super League club Harlequins.

At least four members of the 23-man outfit were struck down by a stomach bug after arriving in the UK this week to prepare for the March 1 meeting between the NRL premiers and Super League champions Leeds at Elland Road.

Prop George Rose, utility Shane Rodney and backrower Glenn Stewart all missed training during the week with gastric problems.

Team medical staff diagnosed a virus, which seemed to have spread among a group of players who sat together on the flight from Australia.

But a team spokesman said on Friday all were expected to play against Quins at Twickenham's Stoop Stadium, where coach Des Hasler would trial a younger side in the first half and a near full-strength team after the break.

"Everyone will get a run," the spokesman said.

"We've had a bit of trouble with a virus, but everybody's ok ... the doctor has arrived and he traced it back to the plane trip.

"The guys were all in the same group on the plane, in the same row."

AAP

Manly Sea Eagles
65
Vote
   


Manly Name Team For World Club Challenge

February 14th 2009 12:08
Manly captain Matt Orford says the Sea Eagles are determined to break the Super League stranglehold on the World Club Challenge and return to Australia as world champions.

The Sea Eagles depart on Sunday for the March 1 clash with Leeds Rhinos at Elland Road and they're hoping to become the first Australian team since the Sydney Roosters in 2003 to bring the trophy back home with them.

Orford headlines the squad of 23 heading to the UK, with Test prop Brent Kite the highest profile absentee after he was granted compassionate leave.

Kite isn't the only NRL premiership hero to miss the clash with departed trio Steve Menzies, Steven Bell and Mark Bryant unavailable after changing to Super League clubs in the off-season.

New recruits Chris Bailey and Shane Rodney were included in the touring party, but star Parramatta signing Tony Williams was ruled out with injury.

"It's going to be a physical match and we can't shy away from what to expect over there," said Orford on Friday.

Manly Sea Eagles


"To start our 2009 season I think we have to go over there and put in a good performance and really try to get something back.

"The Roosters are probably the last team to bring that shield back so we're definitely taking it seriously and we want to do well for Manly and get our season off to the best possible start."

Even coach Des Hasler insists the WCC is more than just a trial for his NRL premiership side.

"It is a massive game, there is a trophy on offer," he said.

Premiership heroes Steve Matai and Brett Stewart are expected to play in the WCC clash after both completed quick recoveries from off-season surgery that ruled them out of last year's World Cup.

Matai missed New Zealand's World Cup final triumph over Australia when his neck and shoulder injury flared during the group matches, while fullback Stewart was ruled out of Australia's squad prior to the tournament beginning with a shoulder injury.

Also making a return from injury in England will be prop George Rose who is finally back into first grade calculations after his horrific broken leg sustained in round 11, 2007.

It was initially feared the broken leg would end Rose's career, but the 25-year-old has fought his way back after a long rehabilitation and time spent in the lower grades last year.

"George has really worked hard during the offseason and I've got to say the rehab staff have done an exceptional job with George," said Hasler.

"He has really earned his place on the plane and the players are really pleased to have him back."

Manly will play a warm up clash against the Harlequins in London on February 22.

AAP
42
Vote
   


Manly CEO Grant Mayer Hopes To Stay

February 13th 2009 10:54
Manly chief executive Grant Mayer insists he does not want to walk away from the club and is hopeful a resolution to the club's boardroom battles can rescue his long-term future with the Sea Eagles.

Mayer told the Sea Eagles board on Thursday night he would not seek a contract extension when his deal expires in October as he no longer had their full support.

The respected chief executive has become the fall guy of a bitter battle between co-owners Max Delmege and Scott Penn.

Delmege has reportedly failed to meet "hundreds of thousands of dollars" in funding payments to the club in recent months but has used his long-standing power at the board level to effectively oust Mayer after the pair fell out last year.

"I've loved every minute I have had at Manly and I want to be at Manly long term," said Mayer on Friday.

Manly Sea Eagles


"But at the moment there are some issues that need to be resolved and I hope that my actions help resolve those issues.

"My preference is to be here longer than just this year, but I've had to make a stance and my stance is I won't be seeking an extension beyond October 31, 2009.

"If things change and things always change, you never know ... Never say never they say.

"Once we start playing football games again people will realise this is about the Manly football team and any bickering behind the scenes will be put aside and we should move on."

Mayer has been the man responsible for leading the club to its best financial position in many years - increasing the Sea Eagles business from $9 million to $12.5 million in his three years and securing a three-year $2.7 million major sponsorship deal with Quantum Energy.

But at the board meeting only Penn was willing to support an extension of Mayer's contract.

Penn, who is the club's major shareholder with 42 per cent, was overpowered by Delmege, who owns 38 per cent, as the property tycoon has the backing of the Leagues Club representatives on the board.

Penn labelled the current board room as "dysfunctional" and claimed Mayer was the "victim of external politics".

He said he would not desert the club but was adamant the Sea Eagles needed to find more money if Delmege was unable to pay the amounts owing in his shareholders' agreement.

"Commitments are not being met at the moment and that does put a strain on the organisation and it means we either need to find some money elsewhere or the Penn family needs to put more cash in or whatever we need to do to survive," said Penn.

"Financially we are in the best shape we've been in a long time ... and Grant is a big part of that happening.

"Either compromises need to be made or changes need to be made. We're confident that we will hopefully make that happen in the next three or four weeks.

"It is a board issue ... it will not affect anything on the day to day basis of running the club."

AAP
38
Vote
   


Tony Williams Ready For Manly

January 29th 2009 12:36
Manly officials remain confident new recruit Tony Williams will be on the plane to England for the upcoming World Club Challenge despite a hamstring injury.

The former Parramatta winger tore his hamstring during pre-season training earlier this month, with initial fears having him on the sidelines for two months.

But those forecasts have been downgraded with the hulking 20-year-old now in contention to be in coach Des Hasler's squad when the team flies out of Sydney on February 14.

Manly will play a warm-up match against London Harlequins in London on February 22 before the WCC clash with Super League champions Leeds at Elland Road on March 1.

"He hurt it about three weeks ago, it was a grade two tear and it was going to be between six to eight weeks," Manly chief executive Grant Mayer said.

"His rehab's been really good and it's more than likely that he'll be coming to the UK - whether he's ready for the first game we don't know, but certainly the medical team expect that if he stays on track he'll be right for that game against Leeds on March 1."

Tony Williams


Williams had been one of the Sea Eagles' more impressive trainers as he looked to force his way into the premiership outfit.

While he burst onto the scene as a winger at Parramatta, Hasler is keen to see whether the junior Kangaroo can make the transition to the backrow.

"Des recruited him as a backrower when he first came across but obviously the fact he can play wing and centre is a bonus," Mayer said.

AAP
46
Vote
   


Manly outlast determined Warriors

June 22nd 2008 03:54
The Manly Sea-Eagles have stayed at the top of the premiership table thanks to a scrappy 20-14 victory over the New Zealand Warriors at a sodden Mt Smart Stadium this afternoon.

Manly’s four tries to three victory wasn’t secured until prop Brent Kite crashed over in the 76th minute, with both sides poor ball control sure to be addressed by both coaches during the week.

After a tight opening 15 minutes, it was a barnstorming run from Warriors winger Manu Vatuvei that brought about the opening points, the monster Kiwi winger palming off David Williams and Brett Stewart on a damaging sixty metre charge before dotting down in the corner in his return match.

Also appearing in his first game after a lengthy injury spell, New Zealand pivot Michael Witt converted superbly from the sideline to hand the home side a 6-0 advantage.

The Sea-Eagles replied just three minutes later however thanks to some fancy footwork from fullback Brett Stewart, with the Origin custodian mesmerising three Warriors defenders in an angled cross field charge to get the visitor’s back to 6-4 in the 18th minute.

Running with the aid of a strong breeze, the Sea-Eagles were cruelly denied two further try scoring decisions by video referee Graeme West, allowing the Warriors to take a slight 6-4 lead into the main break.

An energetic start to the second half from Manly allowed them to snatch the lead in the 45th minute, with backrower Glenn Stewart steaming onto a neat Heath L’Estrange offload to barrel his way over beside the posts, with Matt Orford’s conversion pushing the visitor’s out to a 10-6 lead.

In what was warming into an entertaining encounter, the Warriors drew level thanks to a piece of good fortune, with an Ian Henderson grubber kick rebounding off Manly’s Steve Menzies, allowing Simon Mannering to bounce over.

The Warriors chances of recording an upset grew greater when winger Aidan Kirk leapt high over his opposite Williams to dot down, with Witt again missing from the sideline leaving the Warriors clinging to a slender 14-10 advantage heading inside the final 15 minutes.

But in a see-sawing match, Manly hooker Matt Ballin snatched back the lead with a simple dummy-half barge over try close to the posts, with Orford’s conversion from close range handing the Sea-Eagles a 16-14 advantage inside the final eight minutes.

And it was the Warriors ill-discipline that eventually cost them the game, with Manly front-rower Brent Kite wrapping up the match with a late four-pointer.

Manly Sea-Eagles 20
Tries: Brett Stewart, Glenn Stewart, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite
Goals: Matt Orford 2
defeated
New Zealand Warriors 14

Tries: Manu Vatuvei, Simon Mannering, Aidan Kirk
Goals: Michael Witt

At Mt Smart Stadium

Referee – Tony De Las Heras

In today’s other games, the Sydney Roosters have survived a late Newcastle Knights charge to secure a thrilling 16-14 victory over the Novacastrians at a rowdy EnergyAustralia Stadium today.

After trailing 6-8 at half-time, the visitor’s smart use of the strong second half breeze allowed winger Shaun Kenny-Dowall to cross for two tries to keep an equal share of the competition lead.

Sydney Roosters 16
Tries: Shaun Kenny-Dowall 2, David Shillington
Goals: Craig Fitzgibbon 2
defeated
Newcastle Knights 14

Tries: Cory Paterson, Danny Buderus
Goals: Kurt Gidley 3

At Energy Australia Stadium

And at Toyota Park, a Luke Covell penalty goal after the full time siren has seen the Cronulla Sharks record a heart-stopping 16-14 victory over the Parramatta Eels.

Cronulla Sharks 16
Tries: Isaac De Gois, Luke Douglas
Goals: Luke Covell 4
defeated
Parramatta Eels 14

Tries: Taulima Tautai, Tony Williams
Goals: Luke Burt 3

At Toyota Stadium
80
Vote
   


Manly grind to gutsy victory

April 18th 2008 11:55
The Manly Sea-Eagles have produced one of the most heroic performances in the clubs history, gutsing out an against all odds 20-16 victory over the Parramatta Eels at a sodden Parramatta Stadium tonight.

With an 5-11 penalty count against them, and despite having only one fresh interchange for the entire second half, the Sea-Eagles displayed pure grit to ground out a much deserved victory.

It was another frustrating night for the struggling Eels; with the home side failing to create enough opportunities to put the injury depleted Manly side to bed.

The visitor’s opened the scoring in spectacularly bizarre fashion in the fourth minute, off the back of a shocking blunder by Parramatta winger, Eric Grothe.

After intercepting a Steve Menzies pass off the back of a long break from the aging Manly lock, Grothe crabbed across field in an attempt to link up with an unmarked Jarryd Hayne, but threw a wild pass at Hayne’s feet, enabling Manly’s Michael Bani to scoop up the loose ball and score in the corner.

Matt Orford’s sideline conversion handed the Sea-Eagles a 6-0 advantage after just five minutes.

The Eels posted their first points five minutes later through a Luke Burt penalty goal to make it 6-2, but despite a handy possession advantage, failed to penetrate the watertight Manly defence.

Against the run of play, Manly were able to extend their lead in the 16th minute, this time Grothe caught well out of position, allowing opposite Michael Robertson to bustle past him and dot down off an Orford chip kick.

The Eels dominated both field position and possession for the remainder of the half, but could only add a 36th minute Burt penalty goal to make it 10-4 at the break.

Off the back of repeat sets, Manly fullback Brett Stewart sliced through two Eels defenders early in the second half to push the Sea-Eagles lead out to 14-4, with the ten point lead particularly crucial given the slippery conditions.

Parramatta gave their home fans some hope when lock Chad Robinson scored a freakish try off a Nathan Hindmarsh grubber, with Burt’s third goal closing the gap to 14-10 in the 56th minute.

The brilliance of Feleti Mateo pushed the Eels ahead just five minutes later, with the exciting number six pocketing a superb banana kick through for the flying Burt to claim a converted try for a 16-14 lead.

But Manly snatched the lead back in the 73rd minute through a converted try to hooker Heath L’Estrange, with the Sea-Eagles defence holding firm in the final stages to complete a gutsy four tries to two victory.

The Sea-Eagles will try to find 17 healthy players ahead of next Saturday nights clash with the Canterbury Bulldogs at Brookvale Oval, while the Eels will enjoy the week off courtesy of the Round 7 bye.

Manly Sea-Eagles 20
Tries: Michael Bani, Michael Robertson, Brett Stewart, Heath L’Estrange
Goals: Matt Orford 2
defeated
Parramatta Eels 16

Tries: Chad Robinson, Luke Burt
Goals: Luke Burt 4

At Parramatta Stadium

Referee – Shayne Hayne
69
Vote
   


NRL Club Analysis for Season '08 - Manly

February 20th 2008 03:38
Manly-Warringah Sea-Eagles

Manly Sea-Eagles


Attack – 9/10
Defence – 8/10
My prediction – 2nd

Manly are set to unleash months of pent up frustration upon their rivals in season 2008, as the star studded Sea-Eagles seek to make amends for their grand final shocker against the Storm at the end of last season. Redemption will be word oft used by coach Des Hasler when times get tough throughout the season, and repeat showings of Manly’s meek performance from last season’s decider may well keep his troops focused.

With speed to burn, fearsome defence and a wealth of depth at their disposal, Manly have all the traits of a premiership winning side. If the core group of Orford, Lyon, Stewart, Watmough and Kite can remain injury free, then the Sea-Eagles have the talent to again contest cum grand final day ’08.

Strengths-

Despite losing the inspirational Michael Monaghan, the Sea-Eagles appear to have a much stronger squad heading into season ’08. New signings Josh Perry and Heath L’Estrange will bolster an already powerful looking pack, with Perry and Adam Cuthbertson set to battle it out with Kite and King for the two starting prop positions.

The addition of David Vaeliki will enhance an already formidable looking Sea-Eagles backline, with the former Eel and Wigan centre set to keep the pressure on both Steve Bell and Steve Matai for a starting centre spot.

Weaknesses-

A fair chunk of the Sea-Eagles salary cap has been invested in the dynamic halves pairing of Jamie Lyon and Matt Orford, rendering Manly light on for backup in the halves department should one of the two go down injured. The departure of Monaghan also leaves a big hole in both the halves and hooking roles, with only the inexperienced Ballin and L’Estrange left to fill the void.

While there is depth aplenty through the outside backs and forwards, the lack of experienced, quality depth in the crucial halves department could well prove to be Manly’s Achilles heal.


Best Team-

1- Brett Stewart
2- Michael Robertson
3- Steve Bell
4- Steve Matai
5- Michael Bani
6- Jamie Lyon
7- Matt Orford
8- Brent Kite
9- Matt Ballin
10- Jason King
11- Anthony Watmough
12- Glenn Stewart
13- Luke Williamson

14- Steve Menzies
15- Adam Cuthbertson
16- Josh Perry
17– Mark Bryant

Trial Matches-

16/02/08 v Melbourne Storm @ Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford
29/02/08 v New Zealand Warriors @ Quad Park, Kawana Waters, QLD

2008 Gains and Losses –

Gains
Josh Perry (Newcastle), David Vaeliki (Wigan), Heath L’Estrange (Sydney Roosters), David Williams (Parramatta), Tom Browne (South Sydney), Jared Waera-Hargreaves (NSWRU)

Losses
Michael Monaghan and Chris Hicks (Warrington), Travis Burns (North QLD), Aaron Groom (Canterbury)

*Please join me tomorrow for my Analysis of the Melbourne Storm 2008 season.

Cheers,

StephenP

110
Vote
   


Steve Menzies extends stay at Manly

October 23rd 2007 11:10
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles


Manly legend and second rower Steve Menzies has extended his current deal with the Sea Eagles for another season, the club announced today.

The one-year contract extension will see the club's favourite son stay at the club he joined in 1993 until the end of the 2008 season.

The player is in a select group of "one club men" having showed tremendous loyalty to the club over the years. He has racked up a staggering 322 games for the Sea Eagles and is the leading scorer in the entire NRL comp. with 167 tries.

Steve Menzies


Manly chief executive Grant Mayer said it was fitting that one of the game's greatest ever players would celebrate his final season in the game's 100th season.

"Steve Menzies is admired by fans of all clubs and is a treasure at Manly.

"On and off the field he sets a standard for others and although he is turning 34 in December remains we have no doubts he will continue as one of our best next season.

"He wants to play and we want him to play - the club will ensure his magnificent career is celebrated in style and planning is well underway for some milestone events."
Mayer said.

Menzies said there was never any doubt about him playing another season with his beloved Sea Eagles.

"I have enjoyed the 2007 season and will savour every game I have left knowing next season will be my last.

"I'm proud to have played my entire career with the club I have been passionate about since by late grandpop first took me to Brookvale Oval.My team mates are my best mates and I don't want to contemplate life without football."
Menzies said.

Here's to many more games and tries mate!

Steve Menzies Fact File:

Birthday: 4/12/73
Points: 670
Tries: 167
Goals: 1
Field Goals: 0

90
Vote
   


Manly name extended squad

September 18th 2007 06:31
MEDIA RELEASE - Manly Sea-Eagles

manly sea-eagles


Manly Sea-Eagles coach Des Hasler has ben forced to name an extended squad ahead of this Saturday nights preliminary final clash with the North Queensland Cowboys at the Sydney Football Stadium.

Hasler has given injured players Chris Hicks and Glen Stewart up until match day to overcome injuries sustained against Souths in the opening week of the finals, with veteran Manly player Steve Menzies also in doubt with the flu.

The winner of this Saturday nights match earns a berth in the 2007 NRL Grand Final against the victor of Sunday's Melbourne Storm and Parramata Eels prelimnary final.

Manly Sea-Eagles squad to meet the North QLD Cowboys:-

1 Brett Stewart
2 Michael Robertson
3 Steve Bell
4 Steve Matai
5 Chris Hicks
6 Jamie Lyon
7 Matt Orford (c)
8 Jason King
9 Michael Monaghan
10 Brent Kite
11 Anthony Watmough
12 Glenn Stewart
13 Luke Williamson

Interchange :-

14 Travis Burns
15 Glenn Hall
16 Mark Bryant
17 Steve Menzies
19 Matt Ballin
20 Jack Afamasaga
21 Adam Cuthbertson
80
Vote
   


Manly end Souths dream

September 8th 2007 13:26
The Manly Sea-Eagles have ended the South Sydney Rabbitohs fairytale run by recording a hard fought 30-6 victory at a packed Brookvale Oval on Saturday night.

With Souths needing a win to stay in the semi-final race, it was a resilient performance by the unfancied Rabbitohs to keep pace with their star studded rivals for the majority of the match, before four late tries enabled the Sea-Eagles to skip away with a bruising victory.

The match was not without controversy however, when in the 61st minute Souths lock Ben Rogers was put on report by referee Shayne Hayne for an apparent late charge on Manly half Matt Orford, with replays suggesting that Rogers there was nothing illegal with Rogers charge.

Momentum enabled the Sea-Eagles to run away with the match from that point on, with zippy Manly fullback Brett Stewart and veteran utility Steve Menzies both crossing for a try scoring double.

Souths started the match full of purpose, and were rewarded for their enthusiasm with a sixth minute penalty goal to Joe Williams for a Sea-Eagles ruck indiscretion.

After video referee Tim Mander had only moments earlier denied tries to both Menzies and Stewart, the Sea-Eagles finally opened the scoring with a four pointer to the prolific try scoring backrower Menzies.

Receiving the ball 30 metre out in traffic, it was a trademark Menzies swerve and fend that saw him burst clear of two lazy Souths defenders, with the elusive utility having enough pace to beat the Souths cover defence to score in the corner.

Orford duly converted to push Sea-Eagles out to a narrow 6-2 lead after 18 minutes.

With the home team beginning to control both possession and field position, South Sydney were forced to defend their tryline for much of the closing stages of the first half, with the Sea-Eagles heading to the sheds with a slender 6-2 half-time lead.

A pumped up Souths unit travelled the length of the field from the restart, with veteran Souths winger Paul Mellor opening the second half in spectacular fashion by claiming a precision Williams cross field kick, and dotting down inside the right hand corner.

Williams sideline conversion attempt swung wide, leaving the scores all tied up at 6-all after 43 minutes.

Manly snatched back the lead ten minutes later, with a determined Anthony Watmough charge being rewarded with the dynamic backrowers 11th try of the season.

Orford converted from right in front to extend the Sea-Eagles lead to 12-6.

The Sea-Eagles appeared home and hosed when Stewart accepted a brilliant Jamie Lyon offload to dive over beside the posts, with Orford’s third conversion handing the home side a commanding 18-6 lead heading into the final 15 minutes.

Souths fate was sealed for season ’07 when Stewart and Menzies flashed over for their try scoring doubles, with Manly now only one game away from another grand final appearance.

Manly Sea-Eagles 30
Tries: Brett Stewart 2, Steve Menzies 2, Anthony Watmough
Goals: Matt Orford

South Sydney Rabbitohs 6
Tries: Paul Mellor
Goals: Joe Williams

At Brookvale Oval

Referee – Shayne Hayne
52
Vote
   


Hasler names extended Sea-Eagles squad

September 4th 2007 06:51
MEDIA RELEASE - Manly Sea-Eagles

mnaly sea-eagles


Manly Sea-Eagles coach Des Hasler has named an extended squad for this Staurday nihts clash with the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Brookvale Oval.

Hasler has named Adam Cuthbertson to replace injured representative prop Brent Kite at starting prop, with Halser also opting to include some extra forward firepower on the bench in the form of Vic Mauro and Jack Afamasaga.

Manly Sea-Eagles sqaud to meet the South Sydney Rabbitohs:-

Brett Stewart
Michael Robertson
Steve Bell
Steve Matai
Chris Hicks
Jamie Lyon
Matt Orford (c)
Jason King
Michael Monaghan
Adam Cuthbertson
Anthony Watmough
Glenn Stewart
Luke Williamson

Interchange -
Travis Burns
Matt Ballin
Mark Bryant
Steve Menzies
Vic Mauro
Jack Afamasaga
48
Vote
   


Manly hold off fiery Dragons

September 2nd 2007 05:53
The Manly Sea-Eagles survived a second half onslaught from the St George-Illawarra Dragons to record a thrilling 28-24 victory at Brookvale Oval on Sunday.

Manly burst out of the blocks with a dominant five try first half performance, but the Dragons stormed home late to score three converted tries of their own to go within a whisker of causing an upset victory.

After a mistake riddled opening ten minutes, it was a beautiful cut out pass from Matt Orford that allowed Manly centre Steve Matai to cross for the opening try of the match.

With the aide of a strong breeze, Orford converted from wide out to hand the home side an early 6-0 lead.

After booting a booming 40/20 kick to put the Sea-Eagles back on the attack, Monaghan pushed the home side further ahead when he barged over from dummy half to score just three minutes later.

Orford easily converted to push Manly out to 12-0 after 14 minutes.

St George hit back with a simple try against the run of play, with Dragons backrower Beau Scott bursting through some soft Sea-Eagles defence and linking up with a flying Mark Gasnier to score under the posts.

Dragons half Jamie Soward nailed the simple conversion to make it 12-6 after 20 minutes.

A brilliantly rehearsed Manly scrum base manoeuvre saw centre Steve Bell cross just four minutes later, with another Orford conversion extending the lead to 18-6.

Manly scored one of the tries of the season from the resulting kick off, as replacement centre Michael Bani burst through the Dragons chasing team, sprinting fifty metres before linking with flying fullback Brett Stewart to race away and score.

The Sea-Eagles completed a dominant first half performance when Monaghan dived over for his second try of the afternoon, with Orford’s fourth conversion sending the home side into the half-time break with a commanding 28-6 lead.

With possession evening up in the second half, the Dragons unveiled a powerful running game in a bid to crack Manly’s impenetrable defence.

But it wasn’t until the 66th minute that the Sea-Eagles did eventually crack, with Gasnier climbing high to claim a pinpoint Soward bomb to notch his second try of the afternoon.

Soward’s conversion made it 28-12 with 13 minutes to play.

The alarm bells were ringing loud for Manly when Matt Cooper (69th) and Jason Nightingale (78th) crossed for late tries, but the second best in the league held firm to register a thrilling four point victory.

Manly Sea-Eagles 28
Tries: Michael Monaghan 2, Steve Matai, Steve Bell, Brett Stewart
Goals: Matt Orford 4

St George-Illawarra Dragons 24
Tries: Mark Gasnier 2, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale
Goals: Jamie Soward 4

At Brookvale Oval

Referee – Steve Clark
52
Vote
   


Manly continue 'Knight-mare'

August 10th 2007 12:45
The Manly Sea-Eagles continued Newcastle’s week of woe, dishing out a 50-16 hammering of the demoralised Knights at Bluetongue Stadium on Friday night.

Manly’s nine tries to three victory was built on the back of a dominant first half display, with the Sea-Eagles racing in five first half tries to lead 26-0 at the break.

The Sea-Eagles opened the scoring in just the sixth minute, with backrower Glenn Stewart charging onto a Matt Ballin offload to barge over from close range.

Manly skipper Matt Orford converted from in front to make it 6-0.

With the Sea-Eagles dominating field position for much of the opening half, it was Manly fullback Brett Stewart hat extended his sides lead with a simple 24th minute try. Orford’s conversion attempt swung wide, leaving Manly with a 10-0 lead.

An Anthony Watmough bust just a minute later allowed Jack Afamasaga to score a scintillating 70 metre converted try, and things went from bad to worse when Sea-Eagles centre Jamie Lyon crossed for his side’s third converted try in five minutes to make it 20-0.

Manly veteran Steve Menzies scored his 164th career try when he scored off a Matt Orford kick, with Jamie Lyon’s conversion handing the Sea-Eagles a commanding 26-0 half time lead.

Lyon continued the carnage straight after the break when he crossed for his second try of the night, and the scoreline was getting embarrassing when Orford crossed in the 56th minute to make it 36-0.

Newcastle crossed for three late tries to add some respectability to the scoreboard, with Manly’s sixth straight victory keeping them within reach of the Storm for the minor premiership battle.

Manly will now do battle with the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Telstra Stadium next Friday night, while the Knights will play host to the Panthers next Sunday.

Manly Sea-Eagles 50
Tries: Jamie Lyon 2, Brett Stewart 2, Glenn Stewart, Jack Afamasaga, Steve Menzies, Matt Orford, Adam Cuthbertson
Goals: Matt Orford 3, Jamie Lyon 3, Steve Menzies

Newcastle Knights 16
Tries: James McManus, Brad Tighe, Steve Simpson
Goals: Scott Dureau 2

At Bluetongue Stadium

Referee – Shayne Hayne
54
Vote
   


Manly ruin Broncos party

August 5th 2007 07:13
Another injury to a Broncos representative soured Brisbane’s 20th anniversary celebrations, with the Manly Sea-Eagles registering a gritty 21-8 victory at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.

A suspected broken jaw to hooker Shaun Berrigan has left the Broncos premiership defence in tatters, with the zippy rake now joining fellow representatives Lockyer, Hunt, Tate and Ennis on the sidelines with long term injuries.

It was a three try performance by Manly backrower Anthony Watmough that dashed Brisbane’s anniversary party, with Manly’s fifth straight victory drawing them level with Melbourne at the top of the premiership table.

It was Brisbane who opened the scoring with a 16th minute penalty goal to Corey Parker, with the Sea-Eagles penalised for a ruck infringement.

But it was the first of three Watmough’s tries that brought the Suncorp Stadium crowd to their feet, with a neat Michael Monaghan offload allowing Jamie Lyon to find a rampaging Watmough to score under the posts.

Sea-Eagles half Matt Orford duly converted to hand the visitors a 6-2 half time lead.

Manly extended their lead in the 48th minute with Watmough’s second four pointer, with the former Origin backrower on the end of a scintillating 55 metre backline movement. Orford again converted to make it 12-2.

A 61st minute penalty goal to Orford pushed the Sea-Eagles out to a handy 14-2 advantage, with the Broncos beginning to fatigue due to the loss of Berrigan.

The Sea-Eagles looked to be home and hosed when Watmough crashed over for his third try in the 66th minute, with Orford’s fourth goal of the afternoon making it 20-2.

Broncos lock Greg Eastwood scored a consolation try in the 75th minute to add some respectability to the scoreline, with a 78th minute Orford field goal completing the 21-8 victory.

The Broncos will now try to resurrect their season when they travel to Olympic Park next Sunday to face the Melbourne Storm, whilst the Sea-Eagles will meet the Newcastle Knights at Gosford’s Bluetongue Stadium next Friday night.

Manly Sea-Eagles 21
Tries: Anthony Watmough 3
Goals: Matt Orford 4, Matt Orford fg

Brisbane Broncos 8
Tries: Greg Eastwood
Goals: Corey Parker 2

At Suncorp Stadium

Referee – Ben Cummins
52
Vote
   


Manly silence rowdy Eels

July 29th 2007 07:31
The Manly Sea-Eagles consolidated second spot on the premiership ladder with an entertaining 32-24 victory over the Parramatta Eels at a rowdy Parramatta Stadium on Sunday.

The Sea-Eagles six tries to four victory was built on a dominant second half effort, with Jamie Lyon crossing for two tries in a spectacular four try second half display from Manly.

Manly winger Michael Robertson opened the scoring for the visitors in just the third minute, with a precision Matt Orford cross field kick finding the unmarked Robertson to score in the corner.

Sea-Eagles skipper Orford missed with his sideline conversion to leave Manly with an early 4-0 lead.

The visitors extended their lead in the 15th minute through try scoring machine Brett Stewart. Another Orford cut out found Robertson unmarked on the wing, with the flashy winger able to offload back inside for Stewart to dive over in the corner.

Orford again missed from virtually the same spot, leaving the Sea-Eagles leading 8-0.

Parramatta winger Eric Grothe produced a typically powerhouse try in the 18th minute, with the massive winger palming off four Manly defenders in a spectacular 40 metre charge.

Rookie Eels winger Krisnan Inu converted from out wide to close the gap to 8-6.

The Eels took the lead in the 28th minute, with a fantastic Tim Smith chip kick enabling namesake Ben Smith to dive over. Inu duly converted to lead 12-8.

A Manly mistake afforded Parramatta fantastic field position, with Eels fullback Jarrad Hayne dancing through some soft Sea-Eagles goal line defence to score under the posts in the 32nd minute.

Inu nailed the conversion from right in front to take an 18-8 lead, an advantage they took to the half-time break.

Manly burst out of the blocks in with two tries early in the second half, with Steve Menzies and Brent Kite crossing for dubious four pointers to give the visitors a narrow 20-18 lead in the 50th minute.

In what was a spectacular second forty minutes, talented Eels winger Inu dotted down for a converted try in the 55th minute to snatch the lead, only to have Manly snatch it back three minutes later through a converted Lyon try.

Both sides unleashed some exhilarating football over the final twenty minutes, with Manly centre Lyon wrapping up the match with his second four pointer in the 72nd minute.

The Eels now face another of their arch rivals in the Canterbury Bulldogs at Telstra Stadium next Friday night, while the Sea-Eagles travel to Suncorp Stadium next Sunday to meet the injury riddled Brisbane Broncos.

Manly Sea-Eagles 32
Tries: Jamie Lyon 2, Michael Robertson, Brett Stewart, Steve Menzies, Brent Kite
Goals: Matt Orford 4

Parramatta Eels 24
Tries: Eric Grothe, Ben Smith, Jarrad Hayne, Krisnan Inu
Goals: Krisnan Inu 4

At Parramatta Stadium
69
Vote
   


Manly thrash toothless Tigers

July 13th 2007 11:39
A two try effort by Manly veteran Steve Menzies allowed the second placed Sea-Eagles to record a comprehensive 34-4 victory over the Wests Tigers at Brookvale Oval on Friday night.

It was a typically gutsy display from the second placed Sea-Eagles, with the home side forced to play the majority of the match without strike centre Steve Bell who limped off with a knee injury.

After dominating possession through a succession of early penalties, it was Sea-Eagles backrower Glenn Stewart that crashed over from close range to open the scoring. Manly skipper Matt Orford duly converted to hand the home side an early 6-0 lead.

With top four positions riding on the result of this match, the match deteriorated into a forward dominated arm wrestle, with the sizeable Manly forwards beginning to dominate their less experienced rivals.

Interchange hooker Stuart Flanagan brought the 15,822 strong Brookvale crowd to life in the 32nd minute, bursting through some tiring Manly defence to race 60 metres and score a brilliant solo try. Tigers half Robbie Farah failed to convert, but the Tigers were back in the hunt at 6-4.

The Sea-Eagles went further ahead just before the break with a simple barge over try to hooker Michael Monaghan. Orford converted from right in front to send the Manly team to the sheds 12-4 up at the break.

Menzies pushed Manly even further ahead just three minutes after the resumption of play, with the wily veteran bursting over off a Jamie Lyon offload. Orford failed to convert from wide out, but the Sea-Eagles held a commanding 16-4 lead.

Lyon and Menzies were at it again just four minutes later; with the Test centre making an incisive burst before linking up with Menzies to cross for his double. Orford nailed the conversion to burst Manly out to a 22-4 lead.

The Sea-Eagles wrapped up the game in the 69th minute with an exhilarating seventy metre movement resulting in a try to winger Michael Robertson. Orford’s fourth conversion of the night made it 28-4.

A late try to Manly forward Mark Bryant sealed the six tries to one shutout.

The Sea-Eagles now do battle with the Sharks at Toyota Park next Friday night, whilst the Wests Tigers play host to the Warriors at Campbelltown Stadium next Sunday.

Manly Sea-Eagles 34
Tries: Steve Menzies 2, Glenn Stewart, Michael Monaghan, Michael Robertson, Mark Bryant
Goals: Matt Orford 5

Wests Tigers 4
Tries: Stuart Flanagan
Goals:

At Brookvale Oval

Crowd – 15,288
47
Vote
   


Sea-Eagles remain unchanged

June 19th 2007 06:19
MEDIA RELEASE - Manly Sea-Eagles


manly sea-eagles nrl


Manly Sea-Eagles coach Des Hasler has named an unchanged squad fro this Friday nights encounter with the Canterbury Bulldogs.

The only positional change to the team that beat the South Sydney Rabbitohs last Friday night at Brookvale Oval, is Kiwi international Steve Matai replacing veteran Steve Menzies in the centres. Menzies will start the game off the bench.

Manly Sea-Eagles team to meet the Canterbury Bulldogs


Brett Stewart
Michael Robertson
Steve Bell
Steve Matai
Chris Hicks
Jamie Lyon
Matt Orford (c)
Jason King
Michael Monaghan
Brent Kite
Anthony Watmough
Glenn Stewart
Luke Williamson

Interchange -
Shane Dunley
Glenn Hall
Mark Bryant
Steve Menzies
Adam Cuthbertson
43
Vote
   


Manly outlast Rabbitohs

June 15th 2007 12:37
The Manly Sea-Eagles continued their recent dominance over the South Sydney Rabbitohs with a hard fought 14-2 victory at Brookvale Oval on Friday night.

In front of a vocal crowd of 7,341on a wet Sydney night, it was the high flying Sea-Eagles that recorded their fifth straight victory of the season at their home fortress, while consigning Souths to their eighth loss for season ’07.

It was a penalty goal to South Sydney winger Nathan Merritt that opened the scoring in the 6th minute, after Manly prop Jason King was penalised for a ruck infringement.

The home side replied just two minutes later, with inspirational Manly centre Steve Menzies crossing for his 160th try in the corner in front of his adoring home crowd.

A cross field bomb by Manly half Matt Orford was batted down by Sea-Eagles wingman Michael Robertson, with Menzies accepting the crumbs to dot down in his 310th first grade match. Origin centre Jamie Lyon duly converted to put the Sea-Eagles in front 6-2 after just nine minutes of play.

After a whirlwind start, the match deteriorated into a forward dominated arm wrestle, with the soggy weather conditions hampering any chance of a free flowing attacking spectacle.

The Sea-Eagles extended their lead in the 28th minute, with a Lyon penalty goal pushing them out to an 8-2 advantage.

Manly fullback Brett Stewart continued his freakish try scoring tally at Brookvale when he crossed in the 32nd minute, after two fantastic offloads from Orford and Monaghan put the flying custodian over. Lyon nailed his third goal of the night to push the home side out to a handy 14-2 halftime lead.

In what was a scoreless second half, it was the Sea-Eagles determination and pride in their defensive line that prevented the visiting Rabbitohs from crossing for a much needed four pointer.

Souths had plenty of opportunities to peg back the twelve point deficit in the second half, but they were continuously thwarted by desperate Manly defence and poor attacking options.

The closest the Rabbitohs came was in the 68th minute, when rookie five-eighth Ben Rogers chose to dummy and run instead of passing to his unmarked support, before being brought down in a fabulous cover defending total by Stewart.

The Sea-Eagles now play host to the Canterbury Bulldogs next Friday night at Brookvale Oval, whilst the South Sydney Rabbitohs now face off against the Cronulla Sharks at Telstra Stadium next Sunday.

Manly Sea-Eagles 14
Tries: Steve Menzies, Brett Stewart
Goals: Jamie Lyon 3

South Sydney Rabbitohs 2
Tries:
Goals: Nathan Merritt

At Brookvale Oval
45
Vote
   


The Manly Sea-Eagles stayed atop the premiership table with a 22-12 shut out of a lethargic Parramatta Eels on Friday night, with the Sea-Eagles Matt Orford enhancing his NSW State of Origin claims with a standout performance.

Orford and Michael Monaghan were at their scheming best against the Eels, with both Manly halves pushing their claims for the vacant Blues number seven jersey to be announced on Tuesday.

In a tight first half, it was Parramatta that had the better of possession and field position, with the opening half dominated by semi-final type defence. Parramatta dominated territory over the opening twenty minutes, with Manly returning serve by shoring the ledger up over the next twenty minutes.

After a glut of early possession, Parramatta were the first to post points through a simple dummy and run try from crafty half Tim Smith, with Luke Burt’s simple conversion handing the visitors the perfect start.

The Sea-Eagles had a fantastic opportunity to level the scores in the 32nd minute, with a brilliant movement from the talented Manly backline putting Brett Stewart over in the corner. However Stewart was denied the chance to add to his impressive try tally at the Brookvale fortress, with referee Paul Simpkins ruling the last pass forward.

A mistake from rookie Eels centre Krisnan Inu just thirty seconds out from the break, allowed Manly Test star Jamie Lyon to boot a penalty goal, leaving the Eels clinging to a 6-2 half time lead.

After a dour opening to the second half, a 50 metre charge from Manly backrower Anthony Watmough put the home team on the attack, with Lyon scoring from a neat little Michael Monaghan grubber off the next play. Lyon’s conversion attempt skewed wide off the boot, leaving the score deadlocked at 6 all after 50 minutes.

Try scoring dynamo Stewart made amends for his earlier missed opportunity by scoring a controversial try in the 54th minute. Stewart dived between two Eels defenders from dummy half, and with video evidence inconclusive, video referee Tim Mander had no choice but to rule a benefit of the doubt try to the impressive fullback. Lyon had no trouble with the conversion, and after a mountain of first half defence, the home side somehow found themselves up 12-6.

The Sea-Eagles were over again three minutes later with a nifty try to winger Chris Hicks, after a pin point Orford grubber got in behind the Eels backline in the greasy conditions. Parramatta winger Eric Grothe slipped over while attempting to turn and chase, offering Hicks a saloon passage to the line. Lyon missed the conversion attempt from the sideline, but the Sea-Eagles looked to have had the match wrapped up at 16-6.

A tired looking Parramatta outfit could not prevent Manly’s fourth try in twenty minutes, with another brilliant try to Stewart putting the match beyond doubt. Showing unbelievable pace and skill, Stewart was able to plant the ball inched inside the corner post amidst the desperate covering tackle by Grothe, with Lyon this time nailing the sideline conversion.

Parramatta interchange forward Zeb Taia gave the Eels a slim chance when he scored under the posts in the 67th minute, with an extremely quick Burt conversion making it 22-12 with 13 minutes left on the clock.

But it wasn’t to be the Eels night, with the Sea-Eagles shutting out the match much to the enjoyment of the 19,944 strong pro-Manly crowd.

The Manly Sea-Eagles now face off against the Brisbane Broncos next Monday night at Suncorp Stadium, whilst Parramatta will host the North Queensland Cowboys next Saturday night.


Manly Sea-Eagles 22
Tries: Brett Stewart 2, Chris Hicks
Goals: Jamie Lyon 4

Parramatta Eels 12
Tries: Tim Smith, Zeb Taia
Goals: Luke Burt 2

At Brookvale Oval
41
Vote
   


MEDIA RELEASE - Manly Sea-Eagles





New Zealand Test representative Steve Matai has been a late inclusion in the Manly Sea-Eagles 17 to take on the Parramatta Eels at Brookvale Oval tonight.

Matai requested and passed a last minute fitness test on his injured ankle at the Sydney Sports Academy at Narrabeen late this afternoon, with the damaging centre set to play off the bench in tonight's sold out match. Sea-Eagles hooker Matt Ballin has been relegated back to Premier League to make way for Matai, with Manly coach Des Hasler stating that Matai's inclusion is not a risk.

"We thought early in the week that he may need more time but he sailed through a tough test today and convinced me he should be included," said Hasler.
38
Vote
   


Hasler makes one change

April 24th 2007 06:45
Press Release - www.manlyseaeagles.com.au

Manly Sea-Eagles coach Des HAsler has been forced into making one change for this Saturday nights clash with the North QLD Cowboys at Dairy Farmers Stadium.

Five-Eight Travis Burns has been suspended by the NRL judiciary, with his position being filled by Michale Monagahan.


Manly Sea-Eagles Team vs North QLD Cowboys

Brett Stewart
Michael Robertson
Steve Bell
Jamie Lyon
Chris Hicks
Michael Monaghan
Matt Orford (c)
Jason King
Matt Ballin
Brent Kite
Anthony Watmough
Glenn Stewart
Luke Williamson

INTERCHANGE
Clint Halden
Glenn Hall
George Rose
Mark Bryant
40
Vote
   


Manly magic downs dour Dogs

April 14th 2007 12:04
Manly joined Melbourne as the only teams undefeated in season 2007, recording a hard fought 16-14 victory over a bumbling Canterbury Bulldogs outfit at Telstra Stadium tonight.

Canterbury coach Steve Folkes will be fuming at his side’s impatience and lack of focus, after the Bulldogs all but handed the Sea-Eagles victory through poor ball control and fundamental errors.

In a scrappy first half, the visitors had the better of both possession and field position, but were unable to turn the advantage into points. The Bulldogs were their own worst enemies however, turning over possession repeatedly inside their own quarter.

A series of Bulldogs handling errors afforded Manly handy field position, with Sea-Eagles winger Michael Robertson sneaking down a short blindside to score the first try of the night. Jamie Lyon missed the sideline conversion, but the visitors held an early 4-0 advantage.

The Bulldogs finally hit back with a try against the run of play, after an uncustomary Manly fumble. Spotting a slight gap in the Manly ruck defence, utility hooker Dallas Mc Ilwain barged his way over to score adjacent to the posts. Hazem El Masri had no trouble with the conversion attempt to hand the Bulldogs undeserved 6-4 lead at half time.

Sonny Bill Williams came out firing early in the second half, with a trademark Sonny Bill hit forcing an error from Sea-Eagles backrower Anthony Watmough. Accepting a perfectly timed offload from Mark O’Meley at the defensive line, Williams charged through a gap before wrong footing Manly fullback Brett Stewart on his way to the try line. El Masri nailed his second goal in his 250th NRL game to hand the Bulldogs a 12-4 lead.

Manly hit straight back in the 49th minute through an opportunist try to Chris Hicks. Bulldogs winger El Masri fumbled a Michael Monaghan grubber on his own try line, losing the ball forward into the hands of a charging Chris Hicks, who beat three in a winding run to the line. Lyon was this time able to convert the try, and the visitors were back in the match trailing 12-10.

El Masri made up for his earlier handling error, by booting his third kick of the night from a Manly ruck infringement to put the Bulldogs out by four with fourteen minutes left on the clock.

But the Sea-Eagles returned serve three minutes later with what the try of the match to Manly centre Steve Bell. Accepting the ball thirty metres out from the Canterbury line, Manly half Monaghan placed a deft little chip kick over the Bulldogs defensive line, before regathering and offloading to an unmarked Bell to race away and score. Lyon duly converted to put the Sea-Eagles back in front 16-14.

Canterbury threw everything at the tireless Manly defence in the final five minutes, with only desperate last ditch Sea-Eagles defence preventing the home side from recording a much needed win.

The Bulldogs now meet arch rivals Parramatta at Telstra Stadium next Sunday, whilst the Sea-Eagles take on the NRL surprise packets the Gold Coast Titans at Brookvale Oval next Sunday.

Manly Sea-Eagles 16 (Michael Robertson, Chris Hicks, Steve Bell tries; Jamie Lyon 2 goals)
Defeated
Canterbury Bulldogs 14
(Dallas Mc Ilwain, Sonny Bill Williams tries; Hazem El Masri 3 goals)

At Telstra Stadium

Crowd – 20,629
50
Vote
   


The Manly Sea-Eagles have staved off a desperate last surge by a determined New Zealand Warriors outfit at Brookvale Oval this afternoon, with the home side completing a gritty, come form behind 13-10 victory.

On an overcast Brookvale afternoon, the visitors held a 6-0 lead for the first sixty minutes, as a desperately unlucky Manly outfit were constantly denied by both the officials and tireless Warriors defence.

Manly had four try claims denied by both referee Ben Cummins and video referee Phil Cooley, with Manly fullback Brett Stewart desperately unlucky not to have notched a hat trick by half time.

The Warriors enjoyed the better of both field position and possession in the early stages of the match, thanks to some favourable refereeing decisions from Ben Cummins.

However, Manly fullback Brett Stewart had the chance to add to his impressive try scoring tally in the 10th minute, when a set scrum move saw Stewart burst through the line only to be brought down inches from the tryline. The temptation proved too much for the speedy custodian, lunging over to score, only to have the try disallowed for a double movement by video referee Phil Cooley.

Warriors centre Tony Martin opened the scoring just three minutes later, after a perfectly placed Michael Witt bomb was pounced on by the goal kicking centre. In blustery conditions, Martin was able o convert from the sideline handing the visitors a perfect 6-0 lead early.

Manly skipper Brent Kite had a chance to level the scores for the home side in the 24th minute when he crashed through the Warriors defence under the posts, only to have the ball stripped by Warriors fullback Wade McKinnon.

Brett Stewart crossed the tryline again in the 28th minute after a glut of possession for the home side, only to have the try disallowed this time by referee Cummins due to a blatant shepherd run.

It seemed apparent that this wasn’t going to be the Manly fullback’s day though, when just two minutes later the hometown hero was denied yet again, this time brought down inches short by the desperate Warriors defence.

New Zealand took their slender 6-0 lead to the main break, after some fantastic goal line defence in the dying stages denied the home side an all important four pointer.

Manly were denied their fourth try of the afternoon in the 46th minute, when winger Michael Robertson was ruled to have pushed his opponent out of the way in dotting down over the line.

Sea-Eagles winger Chris Hicks finally got the home side on the board in the 54th minute, after a looping cut out pass was flicked by Stewart out to Hicks to score in the corner. Jamie Lyon was able to convert from the sideline and the home side seemingly lifted at 6 all.

An impressive set of six from the resulting kick off saw Manly regain a repeat set, and Stewart finally crossed for his 31st try in 31 games at the Brookvale fortress to put the home side up 10-6.
The Warriors Michael Luck gave away a crucial penalty in the 69th minute, and Jamie Lyon slotted the extras to put the home side up by a converted try.

Manly look home and hosed with eight minutes left when makeshift half Michael Monaghan slotted a 25 metre field goal.

Simon Mannering gave the visitors some hope with a try in the corner that only the Warriors could have scored, as they passed from sideline to sideline to put the visitors within three points with less than a minute remaining.

However the home side held on for a gutsy victory considering their injury toll, with Manly firmly entrenched in the top four after a perfect start to the season. They now meet the rejuvenated Canterbury Bulldogs at Telstra Stadium next Saturday night, whilst the gallant Warriors return home to Mt Smart Stadium to meet the North QLD Cowboys next Sunday.


Manly Sea-Eagles 13 (Chris Hicks, Brett Stewart tries; Jamie Lyon 2 goals, Michael Monaghan field goal)
Defeated
New Zealand Warriors 10
(Tony Martin, Simon Mannering tries; Tony Martin goal)

At Brookvale Oval
50
Vote
   


Manly Sea-Eagles VS NZ Warriors @ Brookvale Oval, 8/04/07


If the weather stays fine at Brookvale this afternoon, than this could be one of the most exciting games of the season, as two of the quickest, most lethal backlines clash head to head in an important battle for two competition points.

While Manly are so far undefeated in the competition, the Sea-Eagles have not really been tested in their victories against Canberra, Wests and the Sydney Roosters.The Sea-Eagles team has struggled in the early exchanges, only putting their opposition away in the final quarter of matches.

They face a tough test today in their clash with the under rated New Zealand warriors outfit, who have shown touches of promise in winning two of their three opening victories thus far. The Warriors were impressive in easily accounting for the Eels and broncos in successive weeks, but seemed to be lacking intensity in their patchy display against the Storm last Sunday.

The clash between two of the most exciting fullbacks in the competition will be memorable, with Manly's Brett Stewart looking to add to his impressive record of 30 tries in games at his home ground.

In a close but high scoring match, I am going for a Warriors victory on the back of their imposing forward pack getting on top of the home sides pack of toilers. While Manly have scored 14 tries thus far this eason, they still don't look as if they have enough points int hem to compete with the Warriors.






Manly Sea-Eagles –
Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steven Bell, Jamie Lyon, Chris Hicks, Travis Burns, Michael Monaghan, Jason King, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite ©, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson
Bench - George Rose, Mark Bryant, Glenn Hall, Clint Halden

New Zealand Warriors –
Wade McKinnon, Michael Crockett, Tony Martin, Lance Hohaia, Manu Vatuvei, Michael Witt, Grant Rovelli, Ruben Wiki, Nathan Fien, Steve Price ©, Simon Mannering, Logan Swann, Micheal Luck
Bench – George Gatis, Evarn Tuimavave, Epalahame Lauaki, Sam Rapira

Referee - Ben Cummins
51
Vote
   


Manly Sea-Eagles Round 3 Analysis

March 29th 2007 03:30









The high flying Sea-Eagles will once again have to rely on the skills of makeshift halfback Michael Monaghan this Sunday against the struggling Roosters, as regular half Matt Orford has again been ruled out through injury.

The Sea-Eagles played as well as conditions allowed last Saturday against the Tigers, with a heavy downpour before kickoff making the Leichhardt Oval surface resemble a jelly wrestling pit. Without regular starters Orford, Menzies and Matai, the Manly side just did enough to ground out a victory against the young Tigers outfit, and they will have to lift considerably this week as they oppose a Roosters team desperate to nail their first win of the season.

If the Manly pack can hold the bigger but less mobile Roosters forward pack, than the Sea-Eagles have way too much pace, skill and experience in their backline to overrun a Sydney team still settling on their best line up.

Glenn Stewart has stepped up to take over the workhorse mantle of the retired Ben Kennedy for the Manly team, allowing the likes of Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough and Luke Williamson a free reign to terrorise their opponents.


Injuries -

Steve Menzies - Groin - Round 4
Steve Matai - Sprained Ankle - Round 6
Matt Orford - Knee - Round 4

Team VS Sydney Roosters:-

Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steve Bell, Jamie Lyon, Chris Hicks, Travis Burns, Michael Monaghan, Jason King, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite ©, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson
Bench - Clint Halden, Glenn Hall, George Rose, Mark Bryant, Adam Cuthbertson

44
Vote
   


Wests Tigers VS Manly Sea-Eagles @ Leichhardt Oval
Saturday, 24th March, 2007

ANALYSIS

While the Sea-Eagles were impressive in disposing of the Canberra Raiders by 32-6 last Saturday night, they will find it much more difficult against the under rated West Tigers outfit, especially in front of a parochial Leichhardt Oval crowd.

Manly didn’t really click into gear until midway through the second half last week, but along with Melbourne, they possess one of the quickest and most dangerous backlines in this seasons competition. The team from the northern beaches have try scoring potential right across the park, but may rope in their attack this week with the loss of Steve Menzies, Stave Matai and Matt Orford still under an injury cloud.

The Tigers impressed many by staying with the competition favourites for most of last Friday nights match, with only a difficult conversion miss by Benji Marshall proving the difference. New half John Morris took a while to find his feet at his new club, but will be better for the run.

The Sea-Eagles possess a far bigger pack than that of the Tigers, and if the smaller, but more mobile Tigers pack can hold their own against the Manly big boppers, than an upset may well be on the cards.

I am going for Manly in a tight one, as they seemingly have more try scoring ability and a more organised defence than the Tigers. While this game should be close, expect quite a few tries to be scored with the amount of talent and speed in both backlines.
Manly Sea-Eagle to Win.


DANGER MEN

Wests Tigers – Benji Marshal, Brett Hodgson, Liam Fulton, Robbie Farah
Manly Sea-Eagles – Jamie Lyon, Matt Orford, Brett Stewart, Brent Kite


INJURIES AND SUSPENSIONS

Wests Tigers –
Ben Jeffrey – knee – Round 4

Manly Sea-Eagles -
Steve Menzies - Groin - Round 4
Steve Matai - Sprained Ankle - Round 6

TEAMS

Wests Team – Brett Hodgson ©, Taniela Tuiaki, Dean Collis, Paul Whatuira, Jason Moodie, Benji Marshall, John Morris, Keith Galloway, Robbie Farah, Bryce Gibbs, Todd Payten, Dene Halatau
Bench - Liam Fulton, Daniel Fitzhenry, Chris Heighington, Bronson Harrison, Danny Galea

Manly Team – Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steve Bell, Jamie Lyon, Chris Hicks, Travis Burns, Matt Orford ©, Jason King, Michael Monaghan, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson
Bench - Clint Halden, Matt Ballin, George Rose, Mark Bryant, Glenn Hall
43
Vote
   


Manly Sea-Eagles Round 1

March 14th 2007 13:03
Manly Sea-Eagles Analysis -











The Sea-Eagles are set to unleash one of the quickest backlines in the premiership against the young Canberra Raiders this Saturdat night, with new Manly five-eight Jamie Lyon set to play his first NRL game in 4 years.

The Sea-Eagles back 5 are all noted try scorers, with fullback Brett Stewart averaging a try a match on his home turf. The Raiders cannot afford to give Manly any room to move, as Bell, Robertson, Matai and Hicks are all noted speedsters and try scoring freaks.

After a solid debut season, Travis Burns has been named on a 5 man bench, and is expected to be used in a roving attacking option late in both halves. Glenn Hall has been named on the bench to cover both Menzies and Watmough, both who are battling knee injuries.


Injuries:-

No Major injuries to Report


Team VS Canberra Raiders :-

Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steven Bell, Steve Matai, Chris Hicks, Jamie Lyon, Matt Orford ©, Jason King, Michael Monaghan, Brent Kite, Steve Menzies, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson
Bench - Travis Burns, Anthony Watmough, George Rose, Mark Bryant, Glenn Hall
47
Vote
   


The Storm is getting closer!

December 22nd 2006 05:35
Can Melbourne take that extra step in 2007?

Melbourne Storm Off Season News-

* Probably the biggest news emanating from the Melbourne camp is the tussle with the Gold Coast Titans over winger Steve Turner. At this point in time, nothing looks like been resolved before the Christmas / New Year period, but it does seem certain that Turner will be staying in Melbourne.
The solution to the stand off from the Titans point of view - release two young Melbourne development players with an undisclosed monetary figure, and you can keep Turner. The Storm are prepared to pay the money, but not relinquish two additional players.
The standoff continues!!

Melbourne Storm Trial Matches 2007 -

24/2-Melbourne Storm VS Manly Sea-Eagles @ Sunshine Coast

Melbourne Storm Off Season Gossip -

* The rumour that former Storm enforcer Matt Rua will return to the club, has been proven correct. Rua, who last played for the Storm in 2002, played for the Central Comets in the QRL in 2006, and was offered a lifeline by Storm coach Craig Bellamy.

Cheers,

StephenP

Please join us tomorrow for the Off Season News of the Newcastle Knights
62
Vote
   


The money's been spent, now can they deliver? - NRL Off Season Wrap

Manly Sea-Eagles Off Season News Snippets -



* Manly have named crafty halfback Matt Orford as club captain for 2007, taking over the skippers role vacated by retiring lock forward, Ben Kennedy. While Orford says the loss of Kennedy will leave a big hole in the heart of his team, Orford sugests that 'BK's' loss will provide one of their star youngsters with a great oppurtunity.

"It was obviously going to happen at some stage and we have to manage as best we can but I think it is going to be a positive thing," Orford said.

"We are going to miss BK but I think it opens the door for some young guys that have been stuck behind such a great player".

* Manly will field a potential premiership winning backline in 2007, with speed being the vital ingredient in thier quest for premiership glory. Fullback Brett Stewart is rated one of the quickest in the competition, with new centre pairing Steve Bell and Jamie Lyon no slouches in the pace department. Outside the centres are Chris Hicks and Michael Robertson, with Travis Burns and Matt Orford rounding out the speedy backline.

And even in the forwards the Sea-Eagles have surprising pace, with international Steve Matai looking to play lock, veteran try scorer Steve Menzies and big man Brent Kite possessing a clean pair of heels, with hookers Micahel Monaghan and Shane Dunley able to carve up defences at will.

Manly Sea-Eagles Trial Matches 2007-

24 February - Manly VS Melbourne @ Sunshine Coast
3 March - Manly VS NQ Cowboys @ Cairns

Cheers,

StephenP

64
Vote
   


NRL Report Cards

October 4th 2006 04:19
NRL Report Cards

Now that the season has finished, in this weeks club analysis we will hand out the report cards for each club in season 2006. Just like a school report, each club will be given a grade between A and E, according to their 2006 playing roster, 2006 position as opposed to their 2005 position and how well they overcame setbacks throughout this season. As there is no rugby league until Friday the 14th of October, we will review just 3 clubs each day this week.

As of next Monday, we will be changing the look of the domain around, looking at different aspects of rugby league for the average punter. The new line –up will look like –

Monday – Rule interpretations
Tuesday – Legends of the 1980’s and 1990’s
Wednesday – Rule changes or potential changes to the game
Thursday – NRL highlights
Friday – Preview of Tri-Nations Match
Saturday – Gold Coast Titans News
Sunday – Review of Tri-Nations Match

Cheers,

StephenP


Cronulla Sharks –

2006 Season Rating – C


Cronulla looked like certainties for a Top 4 position midway through the season, playing a simple brand of football and combining well as a unit. However, all that unity changed after a heavy loss by the Broncos, and the once happy Sharks spiralled into a freefall that would see them lose every game for the remainder of the season. Individually the Sharks enjoyed a decent season, but as a collective whole, the Sharks barely scraped through with a pass mark.

Attack rating out of 10 – 7
Defence rating out of 10 – 7
Best Backline player – Darren Albert
Best Forward player – Lance Thompson
Rookie Sensation – Luke Douglas

Manly Sea-Eagles –

2006 Season Rating – B


Beginning the season with a playing roster that other times would die for, anything less than a Top 8 finish would be considered as a failure out Manly way. With attacking prowess like Orford, Bell, Stewart and Matai, Manly were always going to have the attack to trouble their opponents, but the big question mark surrounded their defence.

Kennedy, Watmough, Menzies, Monaghan and Leuluai all had stellar seasons for the Sea-Eagles, but Manly probably saved their worst form for the finals, losing in consecutive weeks to the Knights and the Dragons.


Attack rating out of 10 – 8
Defence rating out of 10 – 8
Best Backline player – Brett Stewart
Best Forward player – Ben Kennedy
Rookie Sensation – Travis Burns

Melbourne Storm –

2006 Season Rating – A


Minor Premiers by 8 points, the Melbourne Storm appeared to be headed for their second title in only their eighth year of competition. The Storm was by far the best defensive unit all season, and deserved their place in the grand final. Unfortunately for them, they saved one of their worst performances for the last game, as an uncharacteristic Storm team made wrong decisions at crucial times, which ultimately cost them the 2006 NRL crown.

Attack rating out of 10 – 8.5
Defence rating out of 10 – 8.5
Best Backline player – Greg Inglis
Best Forward player – Cameron Smith
Rookie Sensation – Cooper Cronk

Cheers,

StephenP
58
Vote
   


Manly Sea-Eagles and Melbourne Storm

September 26th 2006 05:36
Manly Sea-Eagles -





Key Signing / Re-Signing – Jamie Lyon
The return of former Test centre Lyon will see Manly go close to being installed as premiership favourites for season 2007. Lyon’s position is still unknown, but the most logical choice would be to put the gifted player back in the centres, with current centre Steve Matai moving to lock.

With Lyon and Steve Bell as starting centres next season, Manly will possess try scoring potential right across the park. While Lyon has been electrifying in English Super League at five-eight for the past few seasons, Manly fans must be salivating at their backline next season – Stewart, Robertson, Lyon, Bell, Hicks, Burns and Orford. Lyon has established a terrific short kicking game while away, and he has not lost of the under rated pace for which he was renowned back in his Parramatta days.

Key Loss – Ben Kennedy
The big man was inspirational for the Sea-Eagles this year, with Manly losing a few games when Kennedy was unavailable. While renowned for his defence and off loading abilities, it was passion and willpower that BK brought to his team mates.

Steve Matai will prove to be a handy replacement for Kennedy, with Matai able to replicate Kennedy’s power running game and defensive game. But the big question is whether Matai can inspire his charges into battel like only BK could.



Melbourne Storm –




Key Signings / Re-Signings – Cooper Cronk
Pretty much an unknown before this season, Cronk has easily stepped into the role vacated by Matt Orford at last season’s end, and appears to be the future of the Storm until 2009 at least.

Along with skipper Cameron Smith, Cronk has been instrumental in the Storm’s premiership charge this year, and has proved that he has the organisational skills to direct his team around the park. Coupled with the kicking game of Smith, Cronk controls play expertly inside the opposition’s 20metre zone, and his short kicking combination with Billy Slater and Greg Inglis has been a highlight this year.


Key Loss – Jake Webster
Many might raise their eyebrows at this choice, but if the Storm are forced to relinquish Steve Turner to the Titans as expected, than the loss of Webster will have a huge impact on the penetration of the Storm backline.

Inglis and King should be the starting centres for the Storm in 2007, and if they mange to keep Turner, then one wing position will be sewn up. The loss of Webster is greater than the loss of Turner as Webster has international experience, size and the blockbusting ability to create a try out of nothing.



Cheers,

StephenP
62
Vote
   


Oracle of Delphi's Blogs

114513 Vote(s)
1340 Comment(s)
2115 Post(s)
14215 Vote(s)
224 Comment(s)
162 Post(s)
27236 Vote(s)
210 Comment(s)
376 Post(s)
58828 Vote(s)
859 Comment(s)
760 Post(s)
214 Vote(s)
0 Comment(s)
4 Post(s)
42179 Vote(s)
3344 Comment(s)
388 Post(s)
33 Vote(s)
0 Comment(s)
1 Post(s)
22050 Vote(s)
271 Comment(s)
324 Post(s)
7408 Vote(s)
1 Comment(s)
107 Post(s)
Moderated by Oracle of Delphi
Copyright © 2006 2007 2008 On Topic Media PTY LTD. All Rights Reserved. Design by Vimu.com.
On Topic Media ZPages: Sydney |  Melbourne |  Brisbane |  London |  Birmingham |  Leeds     [ Advertise ] [ Contact Us ] [ Privacy Policy ]