The Manly Sea Eagles have continued their climb to the top of the NRL Ladder, tonight defeating the sloppy Newcastle Knights in front of a pro-Eagles crowd at Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford.
The Sea Eagles running out winners 44-20, surprisingly after the Knights started strongly at got away to a 14-0 lead before the 20 minute mark in the game.
It was a crucial game for both teams, but despite injuries – Newcastle would have fancied their chances, with the game only a stones throw from their home turf and the chance to chase a Top 4 finish, they had plenty to play for.
Instead, it turned into a nightmare shortly before half time.
After starting strongly and not allowing the Eagles to have any ball, the Knights proceeded to literally drop their bundle and gift ball to the Manly side consistently for the next 30 minutes or so.
The reborn Eagles took every chance they were presented with, continuing to stroll over the try line and build on their progressing form over the past few weeks. Coming back from a 14-0 deficit was the challenge Manly needed and they are showing the leading teams in the NRL that they are back and mean business as the finals approach.
While halfback Matt Orford’s kicking game still needs improvement, new face Keiran Foran looks to have a strong future and the wayward Wolfman looks to be returning to his best form after some wayward months. But ultimately for Manly, it seems their forwards are again standing up with some tough, solid work from the engine room when it counted.
While the Knights might blame the loss on their coaching changes, the loss of Gidley and Mullen cannot be forgotten. Stand-in half Scott Dureau was underdone and eventually succumbed to injury himself, with Ben Roberts a little off target – there was no direction for the Newcastle side and things went from bad to worse.
Fortunately for the Knights, they host the Roosters next week and will fancy their chances against the NRL cellar dwellars. For Manly, they have a strong test – away to the attacking prowess of the Wests Tigers.