Manly Warringah players believe former club stalwart Glenn Stewart will receive a great reception from supporters at Brookvale Oval this Friday night.
It will be Glenn’s first game back at Brookvale Oval since leaving the club last season to join the Rabbitohs. The premiership winning back-rower called Manly-Warringah home from 2003-2014 and played 185 first grade matches in the maroon and white.
The match will be just the second time he faces up against his brother Brett. The first time the brothers faced each other saw Souths win 20-8 in June in round 16 at ANZ Stadium.
Hooker Matt Ballin said ‘Gifty’ was a player to keep a close eye on.
“He is so good on their right side. He is one of the players we will have to take care of,’’ Ballin said.
“Glenn was such a good player for the club. The fans love him. It was a shame he had to go. I’m sure when he comes back, he will be warmly received.”
Half-back Daly Cherry-Evans said there would be more applause for Glenn than booing despite playing for the premiers.
“He did a lot for this club over a long period of time, so I think he will get a very warm reception,’’ Cherry-Evans said.
Winger Jorge Taufua admitted to feeling the pain of being on the other end of a Glenn Stewart tackle.
“I didn’t know he was that strong. I tried to pick him out a couple of times (at ANZ) and he got me every time,’’ Taufua recalled.
“There was some banter and I tried to wink or smile at him but Gifty is all business. I have a lot of respect for him. I looked up to him when he was here and I still do. He is a good guy.
“I hope he gets a good reception. Glenn did a lot for this club and I know the boys here respect him very much. It will be good to see him at Brookie again.''
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