Manly has finally moved past their previous reputation as flat-track bullies, showcasing an impressive season in 2024.
In years gone by, the Sea Eagles were known for racking up hefty scores against lower-ranked teams only to falter against the top sides in the competition.
However, under coach Anthony Seibold, they managed to secure six victories and only three losses against finalists, marking a significant leap forward.
If Tom Trbojevic hadn’t faced an unfortunate injury towards the end of the season, they might have made a deeper run into the finals.
Tom Trbojevic remains pivotal for Manly’s success. Getty
The season concluded on a sour note with a disheartening 40-point defeat to the Roosters, yet there were ample positives, laying a strong foundation for an exciting 2025 campaign.
The infusion of three seasoned veterans – Jazz Tevaga (Warriors), Michael Chee Kam (Rabbitohs), and Siosiua Taukeiaho (Catalans) – will boost both strength and depth in the forwards.
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Strength up front is precisely what the Sea Eagles needed, as they conceded too many soft points through the middle last season. Of the finals-bound teams, only the Cowboys conceded more.
Manly’s real asset lies in their strike force. With speedsters like Trbojevic, Jason Saab, Lehi Hopoate, Tolu Koula, Reuben Garrick, and Tommy Talau, they possess the pace to pose problems for any opponent.
Tolutau Koula clinched the victory with his match-winning try during Manly’s semi-final against Canterbury. Getty
The halves combination of Luke Brooks and Daly Cherry-Evans – the NRL’s seasoned veteran – excels in creating time and space for their outside backs.
Manly was amongst only five clubs to surpass the 600-point mark last season, and if Trbojevic can maintain his fitness, there’s no reason the scoring shouldn’t continue.
2025 Additions
Joey Walsh (rugby union), Jazz Tevaga (Warriors), Michael Chee Kam (Rabbitohs), Siosiua Taukeiaho (Catalans), Chris Patolo (Bulldogs), D’Jazirhae Pua’avase (Cowboys)
2025 Departures
Karl Lawton (Cowboys), Jamie Humphreys (Rabbitohs), Brad Parker (retired), Aaron Woods (retired), Ben Condon (unsigned), Jaxson Paulo (Cowboys)
Standout Acquisition
If Siosiua Taukeiaho can return to his Roosters form after two years in France with Catalans, he will significantly enhance Manly’s pack with his formidable presence.
A Crucial Year for
Daly Cherry-Evans – will the oldest player in the NRL demonstrate enough prowess to secure another contract for 2026?
Daly Cherry-Evans begins his 15th NRL season. Getty
Primary Concern
While Manly boasts the pace and finesse in their backline to outmaneuver most, can they match up physically in the forwards?
Expected Finish: 6th
Projected Round One Lineup: 1. Tom Trbojevic 2. Jason Saab 3. Lehi Hopoate 4. Reuben Garrick 5. Tommy Talau 6. Luke Brooks 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Taniela Paseka 9. Gordon Chan Kum Tong 10. Josh Aloiai 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Ben Trbojevic 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Tolu Koula 15. Ethan Bullemor 16. Nathan Brown 17. Toafofoa Sipley
Odds to Win the Championship: $16
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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