The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles narrowly missed winning their second NSW Cup game against the Penrith Panthers on Sunday.
Late-game mistakes allowed the Panthers to secure a 40-36 victory, placing them at the top of the ladder.
With Joey Walsh elevated to the NRL to replace the injured Jamal Fogarty, Zach Dockar-Clay shifted from hooker to half-back, with Zaidas Muagututia stepping in as hooker.
Poor defensive coverage allowed Penrith's Jaxen Edgar to break through, giving them a 6-0 lead within the first eight minutes.
Minutes later, prop Tom Ale scored next to the posts, extending the lead to 12-0.
A defensive lapse saw lock Luron Patea send Edgar over for his second try, making it 18-0 after just 14 minutes.
Manly eventually capitalized on their first significant chance when winger Navren Willett crossed, reducing the margin to 18-6.
The Sea Eagles further narrowed the gap when centre Josh Feledy scored from a Dockar-Clay grubber kick, bringing the score to 18-12.