SATURDAY APRIL 6th 2024 4 PINES STADIUM MANLY SYDNEY
Following a promising start to the season with two impressive rounds, Manly aims to reaffirm its status as a formidable contender as it confronts Penrith at 4 Pines Park this Saturday afternoon.
Panthers vs. Sea Eagles: A Clash of Titans
The Sea Eagles emerged as early season surprise packets after back-to-back wins over the Rabbitohs and Roosters, although the former’s early struggles suggest that victory in Vegas may have not been the statement it seemed at the time.
Reality Check for Manly
However, consecutive defeats against the Eels and Dragons have brought Anthony Seibold’s team back down to reality, and facing the defending premiers this week doesn’t make the situation any easier.
Penrith’s Undefeated Streak
Penrith fell short with an 8-0 loss against Melbourne in the inaugural round but has maintained an undefeated streak since then, handling the Roosters last week with apparent ease despite the absence of key players Nathan Cleary, Scott Sorensen, and James Fisher-Harris.
Domination and Precision
Despite the score-line not fully reflecting it, the Panthers showcased dominance and maintained control over field position for the majority of the game, largely thanks to the impressive yardage gained by their back three.
Panthers’ Response
However, Penrith’s offensive play wasn’t particularly precise, often leaning towards conservative approaches. It will be intriguing to observe how Ivan Cleary’s squad reacts if Manly establishes an early advantage.
Key Lineups
This week, the Panthers receive a boost with the return of Fisher-Harris, resulting in Mavrik Geyer being omitted from the bench after his NRL debut last week.
Panthers
1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Izack Tago 4. Taylan May 5. Brian To’o 6. Jarome Luai 7. Brad Schneider 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. James Fisher-Harris 11. Luke Garner 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Daine Laurie 15. Lindsay Smith 16. Liam Henry 17. Matt Eisenhuth 18. Soni Luke 19. Paul Alamoti 20. Mavrik Geyer 21. Jack Cole 22. Tyrone Peachey
Manly
1. Tom Trbojevic 2. Tommy Talau 3. Tolutau Koula 4. Reuben Garrick 5. Jaxson Paulo 6. Luke Brooks 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Taniela Paseka 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Josh Aloiai 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Ben Trbojevic 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Karl Lawton 15. Corey Waddell 16. Toafofoa Sipley 17. Nathan Brown 18. Ethan Bullemor 19. Jakob Arthur 20. Aaron Woods 21. Raymond Tuiamalo Vaega 22. Gordon Chan Kum Tong
Referees: Todd Smith; Side line Officials: Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski, Phil Henderson; Video Referees: Grant Atkins;
Prediction
With Manly fielding a consistent 1-17 lineup and Daly Cherry-Evans achieving a significant milestone as he becomes the club’s all-time appearance record holder, anticipation is high for a competitive clash.
However, Penrith’s formidable forward pack and exceptional outside backs are likely to set the tone, leading to another hard-fought victory. Despite the expected wet weather conditions, reminiscent of last week’s match against the Roosters, Penrith’s resilience and strategic play should prove sufficient for success, even if the game lacks aesthetic beauty.
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