The big drawcard here is the return of one-time prodigal son Kieran Foran to his old Brookvale stomping ground but the fact we have two sides in winning form who have been bitter rivals for a long time means there is no shortage of spice in what is always a hotly-contested battle.
The Eels are the shock defensive powerhouse of the NRL after six rounds with a season-low 65 points conceded in six games, while Manly look to be hitting form after a slow start despite the absence of Daly Cherry-Evans. Reserve hooker Api Koroisau has slotted in alongside old Souths teammate Dylan Walker in the halves to good effect, helping the side back up an unlucky loss to the Rabbitohs a fortnight ago with an impressive away win against the Warriors last week.
For the Eels, their previously stuttering attack roared into full force in a 36-6 win over the Raiders at home last week to signal they are a side for other teams to worry about this year.
With both sides coming off strong wins and no fresh injury or suspension worries, both coaches have named an unchanged line-up for a match that represents a five-day turnaround for both clubs.
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This article first appeared on nrl.com
