LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The mighty Sea Eagles from seaeagles.com.au are gearing up for a fierce battle as they prepare to take on the reigning premiers Penrith at the foot of the mountains this Sunday in round 14 of the Telstra Premiership.
Having had a well-deserved break last week, the Sea Eagles are primed and ready to go, currently sitting in seventh place on 15 points, while the Panthers are flying high in third place on 18 points.
Key players like Daly Cherry-Evans, Jake Trbojevic, and Haumole Olakau'atu will be closely monitored ahead of the match to see if they are fit to play, especially after their recent State of Origin commitments.
The Panthers are in a similar boat with some of their top players also backing up from Wednesday night's rep game.
In their last encounter, a packed crowd of over 17,000 witnessed the Sea Eagles outshine the Panthers with a 32-18 victory at 4 Pines Park back in April.
Cherry-Evans made history by surpassing the legendary Cliff Lyons for the most games played for Manly, leading his team to victory with five tries to three after a solid first-half performance.
As they head into enemy territory this weekend, the Sea Eagles will be looking to channel that same winning spirit and determination that saw them triumph over the Panthers earlier in the season.
It's sure to be a cracking match that will test the strength and resilience of both teams.
Go the Sea Eagles!