LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Sea Eagles suffered a 22-20 loss to the Rabbitohs in Round 1 of the NSW Cup at 4 Pines Park, a bitter pill to swallow for the proud Manly supporters.
"The first try was totally against the run of play," lamented the Sea Eagles coach.
An attacking kick from Manly was swooped upon by Souths fullback Bayleigh Bentley-Hape, who then dashed 80 meters down the left touch line to score, leaving the Sea Eagles scrambling to catch up.
Despite a first half riddled with errors, the home side managed to hit back in the 19th minute.
"A nice ball from half Jake Arthur put replacement centre Max Haley over in the northeastern corner," explained the coach, leveling the score at 4-4 and injecting some much-needed energy into the game.
Souths, however, were not to be outdone.
"Bentley-Hape bagged his double 13 minutes out from half time," noted the coach, describing the fullback's impressive feat of beating a couple of Manly defenders close to the line.
This put the Rabbitohs ahead at 10-4, further frustrating the Sea Eagles players.
But the Sea Eagles refused to back down.
"Clayton Faulalo created and scored their second try," the coach said proudly.
The fleet-footed fullback displayed his skill by making an incisive break downfield, setting his team up in good field position.
With a big right-foot step, he dazzled the defence and brought his team within two points of the Rabbitohs, igniting hope for a miraculous comeback.
"Despite the loss, the team showed true grit and determination," the coach concluded, emphasizing the fighting spirit of his players in the face of adversity.
The Sea Eagles may have been defeated, but the fire burning within them promises an exciting season ahead.