A week from Hell: A Fans perspective (by Chip & Chase) If you are a Manly Sea Eagles fan, 2008 could not have been a better year for you. An unprecedented march through the semi finals, where all and sundry were put to the sword, culminating in a comprehensive thrashing of the defending premiers in the Grand Final by a record score. Add to this the fact that the greatest and most loyal player ever to don the Maroon and White, Steven "Beaver" Menzies, equalled the record for most appearances and scored a try in his farewell game. Life was good. The 2009 season started where 2008 left off. The Manly side travelled to England to contest the World Club Challenge, a competition that Australian sides didn't have a good record in. Not only did Manly take on the best that the ESL had to offer, they dominated Leeds and proved that they are a side worthy of the title of World Champions. The side returned home to headlines hailing them one of the best club sides ever and that they were outright favourites to defend their NRL title. Life was still good. Read the Article
