With suspended duo Steve Matai and Jason King joining a lengthy list of unavailable stars on Tuesday, Manly coach Des Hasler will be sweating on the fitness of at least three key players for Sunday's do-or-die clash with the Dragons.

PROP Josh Perry delivered a message of defiance as a Manly side stripped bare by injury and suspension prepared to meet St George Illawarra.

Manly centre Steve Matai has been handed a seven-game ban by the NRL judiciary after pleading guilty to a grade three reckless tackle charge.

SEA Eagles skipper Jamie Lyon could revert back to the position that won Manly the 2008 NRL premiership for Sunday’s semi-final against the Dragons at Kogarah Oval.

Kiwis centre Steve Matai has been named in a 43-strong Four Nations train-on squad despite facing a minimal seven-week ban for a reckless high tackle.