LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In Round 14 of the Telstra NRL Premiership, the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles experienced a narrow 26-22 loss to the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium.
The match began with an impressive long-range try attempt by Manly, which was ultimately disallowed after Lehi Hopoate was deemed to have failed to ground the ball in-goal.
Unfortunately, Hopoate suffered a heavy collision resulting in a category one concussion assessment, leading to a reshuffle of the team.
Tolu Koula stepped in as fullback, Ben Trbojevic moved to left centre, and Corey Waddell took the field at second row.
Manly's first legitimate try came in the 13th minute when Reuben Garrick outpaced his opponent, setting up Koula to score his ninth try of the season.
Following this, they scored again due to a strong carry and quick play the ball from Ben Trbojevic, enabling Toafofoa Sipley to power over the line from close range.
The match saw intense competition, eventually leading into golden point extra time, where Newcastle clinched the victory.