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The pinnacle of a season of toil is the Grand Final, and the NRL has notched up some classic moments during the ultimate battle of attrition. The Manly-Melbourne decider this Sunday will be no different.
Whether under lights or the afternoon sunshine, a league Grand final is a moment to cherish for both player and fan.
As the NRL Premiership decider makes the transition from night to day, both the Storm and the Sea Eagles will seek to provide a moment of sheer brilliance or bravery to allow themselves the best of chance of holding aloft the Premiership trophy.
Out of all the memorable moments that have come and gone, what could a Manly-Melbourne final dish up to rank it as one of the most memorable deciders?
Will a bloodied Matt Orford defy all that’s in front of him to take the game against Melbourne by the throat, just like Freddy Fittler did in 2002?
Maybe Glenn Stewart will produce a try-saving cover tackle on Steve Turner, emulating the tremendous effort in 2003 by then Penrith lock Scott Sattler.
Or Greg Inglis could muster the pass of the century, just like Benji Marshall did for the Tigers in the 2005 decider against the Cowboys.
One might as well throw in the distinct possibility of a Storm side without Cameron Smith racing out of the blocks to lead Manly by 24-0 just like Newcastle did seven years ago.
It seems the possibilities are endless, and with the calibre of players that Manly and Melbourne possess, one can only expect that in league’s centenary year, a great Australian sporting moment is just around the corner.
Indeed, a controversial incident, like Craig Smith’s penalty try against the Dragons in 1999, could seal the deal for either side this Sunday afternoon.
Regardless of what occurs between Manly and Melbourne, this seasonb will have a worthy champion that will ultimately draw curtains for league’s 100th anniversary.
May the best team win.