Sea Eagles captain Jamie Lyon says there is no better team to test their premiership credentials than against the red-hot Rabbitohs on Friday night.
The Sea Eagles are comfortable competition leaders, but it’s Manly’s opposition in second place who now pose the biggest threat for the minor premiership.
“They’re such a good side, big strong and physical,” Lyon said. “It’s going to be a tough test and it’s one we’re looking forward to.
“It’s good to test yourself against the good sides and they are certainly one of the best in the comp.
“I think they’ve improved a lot since the start of the year and we’re going to have to be quite a bit better and really play some good strong footy.”
Read our match preview ahead of our top of the table clash with the Bunnies tonight
A win against their modern foes on Friday night would all but secure the Sea Eagles their first minor premiership in 17 years.
But despite closing in on the special feat, the skipper’s main concern is lifting the premiership trophy on the first Sunday of October.
“No, we don’t speak about that. I’ve heard around the traps that we haven’t won it for a long time but I guess you play the game to win the grand final,” Lyon said.
“It’s definitely a bonus to win the minor premiership, but in my view the grand final is the big reward.”
For the majority of his teammates, Friday night’s clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground will be their first at the hallowed venue.
“Yeah, it’s going to be good to get out there tonight and really get on to a historic ground. I know us two sides have played some big games over the years here at the SCG, so I’m really looking forward to it,” Lyon said.
