LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a thrilling match at WIN Stadium on Saturday evening, the St George Illawarra Dragons came close to staging an unlikely comeback but ultimately fell short against the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, with a final score of 24-18.
The game marked a milestone for Daly Cherry-Evans, who celebrated his 300th NRL game.
The Dragons, under the guidance of Ryan Carr, started strong with an early converted try by Francis Molo and a penalty goal by Zac Lomax, giving them an 8-0 lead.
However, the Sea Eagles fought back with tries from Tolutau Koula and Haumole Olakau'atu, taking the lead.
The visitors further solidified their advantage with two more tries in the second half.
The Dragons, refusing to go down without a fight, mounted a late comeback with tries from Billy Burns and Tyrell Sloan.
Despite their efforts, Anthony Seibold's team held on to win by a converted try.
The Dragons' early dominance was evident with a penalty and a series of set restarts that put them on the attack.
They capitalized on this opportunity, with Molo scoring the opening try off the hip of Junior Amone.
Lomax, displaying his aerial skills, almost added another try but was denied.
Lomax later extended the team's lead with a successful penalty goal.