Eagles have landed 12:00a.m. 26 February 2008 They may have touched down at Sunshine Coast Airport on a Virgin flight yesterday, but for the majority of Manly’s NRL squad, this isn’t their first taste of local hospitality. That came this time last year when they played Melbourne in a trial at Stockland Park, a match that ultimately proved to be a grand final preview. New recruits David Vaealiki and Josh Perry are keen to lap up what the Coast has to offer ahead of Manly’s eagerly anticipated trial against New Zealand Warriors at Stockland Park this Friday night. “Talking to the boys last year, they absolutely loved it up here and they got a big crowd, so I’m really looking forward to it,†former Newcastle Knight Josh Perry said. The Sea Eagles have a full itinerary of “meet and greet†sessions planned during the week, starting with a fan day and autograph session with the full squad at Stockland Park from 4pm today. The park will boast 1000 extra seats and a large replay screen for fans keen to see the NRL high flyers hit out. Park general manager Roger Desailly said up to 9000 people were expected. The main game kicks off at 8pm. Local league fans can catch the Noosa Pirates and the Sunshine Coast Sea Eagles following an under-20s match between young guns from the Brisbane Broncos and New Zealand Warriors. Details at www.etixdirect.com.au or call 5491 4240. Sunshine Coast Daily
