Manly’s Strong Start Shows Resilience After Seibold’s Departure
Anthony Seibold may have left, but Manly has proven they still possess the capability to score long-distance tries. In a 28-18 victory against the Dragons at WIN Stadium, Reuben Garrick delivered a stunning four-pointer from the kick-off, showcasing the team’s continued strength in attack.
An early shift deep in opposition territory was a signature of Seibold’s coaching style, and it seems to have remained with the team. Garrick ran 85 metres to score, highlighting the team’s ability to maintain pressure on the opposition.
Following a try by Tom Trbojevic, the Dragons kicked off to Jason Saab, who ran the ball before passing to Garrick. Dragons winger Christian Tuipulotu had shifted inside halfback Kyle Flanagan, leaving Garrick unmarked. The Manly centre maneuvered around a poor effort from Valentine Holmes and didn’t look like being chased down as he made the lead 16-0 within 17 minutes.
“A hammer blow applied to the Dragons … the fire is doused,” said Fox League caller Andrew Voss.
Tuipulotu had earlier gone down injured and was given medical attention for five minutes before playing on. In the aftermath of the try, he left the field with what looked to be a knee injury.
The try marked a terrible start for the under-pressure Dragons. Garrick scored first in the seventh minute when Saab jumped over Tuipulotu from a Jamal Fogarty kick and passed back to the centre, who juggled the ball and fell over the line.
Trbojevic scored the second try when Manly attacked close to the line on the second tackle. The fullback threw a dummy on the right and ran past Kyle Flanagan to score.
Injury setbacks continued for the Dragons when Moses Suli had to leave the field for an HIA following a stray boot to the face with 11 minutes remaining. Jake Trbojevic also had to be taken off at the same time for an HIA with an obvious cut under his right eye.
Trbojevic’s departure led to a Dragons fightback with Luciano Leilua scoring off a quick tap only metres from the line. “Manly embarrassed by the restart,” Voss said.
Jacob Liddle then crossed with five minutes left to make it a 16-12 scoreline. Right before half-time, it looked like Shane Flanagan’s men would level it up, but Setu Tu dropped his chance over the line.
Tu briefly put the Red V ahead early in the second half, getting his side “off the death bed,” as quipped by Voss on commentary. However, Manly powered over the top of them in the final stages after tries for Kobe Hetherington and Lehi Hopoate.
Key Moments from the Match
- Garrick’s 85-metre try: This highlighted Manly’s attacking prowess and showed that even without Seibold, the team can execute long-range plays effectively.
- Trbojevic’s second try: Demonstrated the team’s ability to capitalize on their opportunities, especially when attacking close to the line.
- Injuries to key players: The Dragons faced multiple setbacks, including injuries to Tuipulotu, Suli, and Trbojevic, which impacted their performance.
- Leilua’s try: Provided a brief moment of hope for the Dragons, showing their resilience despite the challenges.
- Liddle’s late try: Narrowed the gap, but Manly’s strong finish ensured they secured the win.
Final Thoughts
Manly’s performance in this match showcased their depth and ability to adapt, even in the absence of their former coach. Their strong start and consistent play throughout the game were key factors in their victory. The Dragons, on the other hand, struggled with injuries and missed opportunities, which ultimately cost them the match.
