Manly.... What can you say.
1. Robertson: Is just not a full back. Tried his heart out but just looks lost back there, stay on the wing champion; 5.5/10.
2. Michael Bani: He played really well today and is finding his feet again in first grade. His speed and positional play was first class from where I stood; 8/10,
3. Jamie Lyon: What can you say? Overrated? Couldn't be further from the truth, he played out of his skin today. As a center he has more attacking control than Bailey and Orford combined. He has such an eye outwide, and had he not played today I feel Manly would have been belted; 8.5/10.
4. Steve Matai: Went missing, I don't know what happened; 4.5/10
5. Andrew Suniula: Played really well for his second game and even bagged a four pointer as a result of some good speed; 7/10.
6. Chris Bailey: Had as much impact as Igor the Eagle on the sidelines; 4/10.
7. Matthew Orford: Moments where you thought he was going to pull a bunny out of the hat, but instead just pulled air; 5.5/10.
8. Brent Kite: Played really well with a lot of damaging hit ups and solid defensive choices; 7/10.
9. Matthew Ballin: Started the game strong, but faded as it went on; 6/10
10. Josh Perry: Usual solid performance without being great; 6/10.
11. Anthony Watmough: Best forward in the Manly pack today in my opinion. He made a few good breaks and defensive hits, but again gave away stupid penalties; 8/10.
12. Glenn Hall: I honestly didn't notice him out there today; 5/10.
13. Glenn Stewart: I think with his ball skills today he gave Manly another dimension, unfortunately wasn't backed up; 7.5/10.
Bench:
Only standout who contributed was obviously Cuthbertson. He is improving every game, although needs to watch out for the stray pass that creeps into his game now and then. 7/10.
Well that's my summary as a somewhat annoyed and speechless Manly fan. I honestly thought we would always come away with the points today, but it just wasn't to be. Full credit to the Warriors, they played their usual heart-in-mouth brand of footy, and with a controlled half and five eigth, will really give this competition a shake.
Heads up Manly, there's always next week.
