Manly Warringah Sea Eagles recorded a 32-24 loss to Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in an NYC (U20s) trial at Shark Park today.
The trial was the first hit out for the season for new Coach Chad Randall and his team in a match that was played over four 25 minute quarters with no goal kicks.
First quarter
The Sharks scored three tries to two in the first quarter for a 12-8 lead with the Sea Eagles tries coming through centre Brad Parker and second-rower Jordan Sims.
Second quarter
The Sea Eagles drew level when winger Mitch Thomas showed some speed and footwork to beat several defenders to score under the posts for a 12-all scoreline.
A softy try from dummy half by five-eighth Jack Williams saw the Sharks lead 16-12 three minutes from half-time.
Sea Eagles winger Mitch Thomas scored his second try just before half-time for a 16-all scoreline at the break.
Third quarter
Cronulla went to a 20-16 lead when winger Josh Tuilagi dived over in the left corner. It became 24-16 when the Sharks spread the ball right for Tony Matautia to score with 12 minutes remaining of the third quarter. The score remained that way until the end of the quarter.
Fourth quarter
Manly opened proceedings with a try to second-rower Billy Bainbridge out wide to leave the Sea Eagles trailing 24-20 with 15 minutes left.
The Sharks extended their lead to 28-20 with a try under the posts with seven minutes remaining before another try in the dying minutes took the score to 32-20.
The Sea Eagles then scored again through full-back Jayden El Jallzh for the 32-24 scoreline.
The Sea Eagles will play their final trial at Pittwater Park next Saturday, February 20, against Gungahlin Bulls. Kick-off is 2pm.
Manly team
Manly NYC team that played Cronulla:
1 Jayden El Jallzh, 2 Mitch Thomas, 3 Jesse Ramien, 4 Brad Parker, 5 Harry O’Toole, 6 Hutana Coffin, 7 Cade Cust, 8 Elia Faatui, 9 Jon Bernard, 10 Amoni Tuifui, 11 Jordan Sims, 12 Billy Bainbridge, 13 Darcy Cox, 15 Cameron Davis, 16 Clint Maguire, 17 Moses McGreal, 18 Johnie Walker, 20 Bryce Roche, 21 Josh Martin, 22 Harlan Collins, 23 Jake Morrison.
