LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a gut-wrenching turn of events, Manly's hopes were dashed as a field goal sealed their fate in a 19-18 defeat to Mounties in the Harvey Norman NSW Women's Premiership clash at Aubrey Keech Reserve, Hinchinbrook.
The Sea Eagles put up a valiant fight, clawing their way back from a 12-point deficit to level the score at 18-all.
However, with just five minutes left on the clock, Mounties' decisive field goal shattered Manly's dreams of victory, propelling the victors into third place in the standings.
Despite their remarkable comeback, the heartbreaking loss leaves Manly languishing in sixth place with seven points, just one point adrift of the coveted top five spots.
Mounties gained an early advantage with a slickly converted try from five-eighth Logan Lemusu, taking a 6-0 lead within the first nine minutes of play.
The home team extended their lead to 12-0 with a try from winger Alanna Dummett at the 17-minute mark, before Manly's half-back Tayla Montgomery narrowed the gap with a well-executed try.
Dummett struck again just before half-time, solidifying Mounties' lead at 18-6.
Despite the Sea Eagles' best efforts, they were unable to claw their way back in the second half, ultimately falling short in a heart-wrenching defeat.