LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Sea Eagles have been knocked off their perch by the Knights in a fierce Flegg showdown at home.
Manly's hopes of extending their winning streak were dashed as they succumbed to a 26-10 defeat at the hands of Newcastle.
Two quick tries in the opening 20 minutes put the Sea Eagles on the back foot, trailing by eight at halftime.
Despite rallying with two second-half tries of their own, Manly couldn't claw their way back as the Knights sealed the deal with three more tries.
It was a tough loss for the Sea Eagles, who were aiming for their fourth consecutive victory and their 12th of the season.
The Knights proved to be formidable opponents once again, avenging their narrow 26-24 win in the previous encounter on June 9.
With this defeat, Manly slips to fifth place on the ladder with 24 points, while Newcastle leapfrogs them into fourth with 25 points.
The Sea Eagles had to contend with a string of injuries and players featuring in the NSW Cup, including Devante Mihinui, Max Hayley, Kylan Mafoa, and Daniel O'Donnell making his NSW Cup debut for Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles.
The match got off to a scrappy start, with both teams giving away cheap penalties and making sloppy errors.
Despite the untidy play, Manly was unable to capitalize and continue their solid form in the competition.
The Knights proved to be more ruthless on the day, securing a well-deserved victory.