Only read through the first two pages, so my thoughts may have already been expressed. Any way, my two cents:
I appreciate the 9's, but understand why many clubs (including Manly) don't risk their stars. Therefore, I had low expectations for the 9's. Warriors were woeful, Dragons not much better, however we played solid, mistake-free football.
Highlight - Cullen. He won't get in front of DCE or Green, but if either are out, we have a first grade standard backup.
Despite some comments I read, I thought Uate looked ok. Ran hard, and looked a handful. Also thought it was good to see Horhay and BJ running freely. Didn't notice the 'awful' defence by Sironen, however was supervising 4 kids at the time, so may have missed it. However, thought he ran strongly and I think he could be a great pickup.
Despite the ad-lib nature of 9's, I thought we showed a bit of 13-a-side structure at times in attack, which was pleasing.
If I must have a negative, when I noticed someone not committing to a tackle and allowing an offload / linebreak, it often seemed to be Joey Lussick. First time I've seen him play so don't want to harp on it, but just something that stuck out to me.
Overall, happy with the display, pleased with no injuries. Don't think we'll go past the Quarters, but I didn't think we'd may make them, so who knows.
Go Manly!