Choc out to show Sticky up
ADAM LUCIUS
03jun05
RICKY Stuart's pre-Origin threat to dump out-of-form players may backfire on him tonight, with Manly back-rower Anthony Watmough desperate to put his case for retention forward when the Sea Eagles meet the Roosters at Aussie Stadium.
It's understood Watmough is one of several players fighting to retain his place in the NSW side for Origin II on June 15.
Stuart has declared at least four spots up for grabs and has put the onus on all candidates to lift their game at club level this weekend or risk the sack.
Watmough did little wrong with limited opportunity in Origin I but needs a big game against Stuart's Roosters to safeguard his position on the NSW bench.
``If I play well for Manly then the rest of it will look after itself,'' Watmough said.
``I can't afford to look too far ahead.''
Manly coach Des Hasler added: ``He did nothing wrong in the first game and I'm a bit surprised his name has been mentioned (as a possible axing).
``His form has been good all season and he hasn't suddenly gone out of form.
``I guess it's a case of getting the balance right on the bench and he (Stuart) may want to make some changes there.''
Recent history suggests Manly will struggle tonight.
The Sea Eagles have lost nine of their past 10 games under lights and have only beaten the Roosters once in their last six encounters.
But Manly skipper Michael Monaghan, who will confront brother and flatmate Joel this evening, says his side is primed to reverse those trends.
``We've already won at night this year and we're backing ourselves against every team we play, so confidence won't be an issue,'' he said.
Asked if his brother had leaked the Roosters' match plan this week, Michael joked: ``He's not smart enough to know what's going on.
``I haven't seen much of him this week and I won't want to see much of him if we lose.''
Monaghan, who has been put on a two-week trial by Manly, will find out next week whether the club is keen to keep him beyond this year.
Hasler will wait until later today to finalise his side, with centre Terry Hill rated next to no chance of playing.
Replacement centre Steve Matai is sus pended, leaving rookie Ashley Alberts in line for a call-up if he can shake off his own injury concerns.
Prop Jason King is also in some doubt but is hopeful of playing.
The Roosters will be missing inspirational skipper Luke Rickertson, who is out sus pended.
Fans are urged to take public transport and arrive early to tonight's game due to possible congestion in the Moore Park area.
Parking will be reduced, however, there will be space available at Sydney Girls and Sydney Boys High.
Regular buses will operate from Central Station.
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