LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Sea Eagles and Warriors have left it all on the field in a thrilling 22-22 draw that had fans on the edge of their seats at Go Media Stadium on Saturday.
Daly Cherry-Evans and Shaun Johnson were the stars of the show, delivering standout performances that kept the crowd on their toes.
With just two minutes remaining and the Warriors trailing 22-14, they managed to conjure up a try from Dallin Watene-Zelezniak.
Johnson then calmly slotted a penalty goal to even the score and send the game into extra-time, where neither team could break the deadlock in golden point.
In the opening 10 minutes, both teams traded sets like heavyweight boxers exchanging blows in the ring.
Manly was the first to strike, with Tom Trbojevic showing his skill by taking on the line and producing a magical pass that ended up in the in-goal area.
Cherry-Evans was in the right place at the right time to ground the ball and convert the try, giving his team a 6-0 lead.
A crucial mistake by Jackson Ford early in the game handed the Sea Eagles another opportunity to attack.
Cherry-Evans, showing his class, executed a perfectly placed grubber kick that earned his team a repeat set.
However, the Warriors managed to regain possession after a clever short dropout.
In the 24th minute, the Sea Eagles mounted an assault down the left side, culminating in Tommy Talau delivering a pinpoint kick back inside for Cherry-Evans to score his second try of the game.
The Sea Eagles' defensive efforts were just as impressive as their attacking prowess, with Talau and Jake Trbojevic combining to force an error from Watene-Zelezniak.
Manly seized the opportunity, with Tom Trbojevic showcasing his playmaking ability by setting up Talau for an easy try.
It was a gripping contest that showcased the passion and skill of Rugby League, leaving fans both exhausted and exhilarated.