I've watched every Manly halfback since the early 60's and there have been some excitement machines: Phil Blake, Johnny Gibbs, Rick Chisholm, Paul Shaw, Gary Stephens, Dennis Ward, Matt Orford, Craig Field, Kevin Junee, Steve Martin, Mike Eden ... some great competitors: Geoff Toovey, Des Hasler, Johnny Mayes, Alan Thompson . . .
but DCE has to be our best overall due to his longevity, leadership and all-round ability, which includes kicking 27 field goals, most of which won us matches at clutch moments. I continue to admire his competitiveness and ability to absorb punishment without missing matches.
I hope those who occasionally knock DCE will come to realise just how great he is.