A RAMPANT Manly defeated competition leaders Canterbury 32-10 on Friday night at Brookvale Oval.
Geoff Toovey’s men scored five tries to two in muddy conditions, with fullback Brett Stewart the s
tar with a double.
The away side skipped out to a 6-0 lead via winger Mitch Brown, only to see Manly respond with four pointers to Steve Matai, Jesse Sene-Lefao and Peta Hiku to be in command 18-6 at halftime.
Jamie Lyon hit an early penalty goal after the break and then Stewart scored off a Kieran Foran grubber.
Chase Stanley’s went over late for Des Hasler’s team, but Stewart had the last say, sensationally grabbing a pinpoint Foran bomb to send the home fans wild.
Halfback Daly Cherry-Evans failed to finish the match following a late tackle from Sam Kasiano which saw the hulking prop placed on report.
Sea Eagles coach Geoff Toovey wasn’t happy with the shot on his playmaker.
“It was an illegal tackle and I am sure it will be dealt with,’’ he said.
“Our doctor has already seen Daly and he confirmed he has not done any serious damage.
“I was happy with how we played, we had our enthusiasm back and took our chances.”
NSW Premier Mike Baird addressed a number of sponsors and fans in the Chairman’s Lounge pre game, outlining his long term plans for the redevelopment of Brookvale Oval.
Exact dates and a budget are still to be finalised.
Andrew Prentice
Manly Daily
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