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The Des-surrection of Manly

Roar Rookie
30th April, 2019
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Roar Rookie
30th April, 2019
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Last year is a season Manly fans would rather forget. Aside from the representative honours and performances of the Trbojevic brothers and Daly Cherry-Evans, there was little to cheer about.

Sadly, more time and effort would have been spent cheering on the Eels’ opponents in the final rounds, as Parra battled with the Sea Eagles to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon.

Highlighted by crowds in the 6000s in two of their last three home games, the worst defence in the competition (622 points against) and a mere seven wins, this was not the Manly we were used to hating.

Manly were “trying” though – Trent Barrett told us so after most of the 18 losses.

Most supporters’ faith will be tested countless times over a lifetime of loyalty, but after decades of dominance, this was a 26-week-long examination culminating in a giant F (perhaps an E- for avoiding the wooden spoon).

2019 could not come quicker and with it the four words that put a spring in the step of Manly fans over summer: Des Hasler is back.

Rounds 1 and 2 – both losses in wet conditions – showed glimpses of promise.

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Wins over the Warriors, Knights, Rabbitohs and Raiders followed, and if not for a dubious non-call on an escort, the Eagles could have won five in a row.

Des called for an explanation, not an investigation, and DCE knew they “probably should have put the game away earlier”. There was no blame game – rather, an honest appraisal of the team’s performance.

After seven rounds, the Sea Eagles are back. 
Minus Tom Trbojevic, they were down 12-0 after ten minutes, then lost their half and captain with 30 minutes remaining against a 5-1 Canberra with the best defence over the opening rounds.

But Manly toughed it out and with Lachlan Croker providing the inspiration, they hit back and held on to win 24-22.

A more gutsy and significant fightback I find difficult to recall.

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The signs of frustration have been replaced by new-found resolve and genuine accountability.

Unidentifiable last season, the Eagles are definitely back.

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