Caption: Manly players celebrate their first win of the season over Cronulla in round three. Photo: NRL Photos.
It remains one of the great hoodoos in rugby league – Manly’s domination over Cronulla.
Heading into tomorrow’s clash, the two clubs have met 87 times. Manly have won 62 to Cronulla’s 23, with just two matches drawn.
At Shark Park, or as it is now known, Southern Cross Group Stadium, the Sea Eagles have won 20 of the 35 matches played there.
So when did this incredible Manly hoodoo over the Sharks start?
It dates back to 1967 when the two clubs met for the first time on March 18. Manly won 15-12 at Brookvale Oval.
The victory began a 10 match winning streak for the Sea Eagles over the Sharks, and still remains the longest winning streak over Cronulla.
On February 19, 1971, the two clubs played a 22-all draw before the Sharks recorded their maiden first grade premiership win over the Sea Eagles at the Sydney Sports Ground on May 15 that season.
It was a short lived victory for the Sharks with Manly going on to win their next six matches to continue their domination.
As for more recent times, the Sea Eagles have won seven of their past eight matches at tomorrow's venue.
Will the hoodoo continue? Can the 12th placed Manly upset the second placed Cronulla to record their fifth win for the season?
Kick-off: 7.30pm.
Manly v Cronulla record
Head to Head:
Played 87: Manly 62, Cronulla 23, drawn 2.
At Cronulla’s home ground
Played 35, Manly 20, Cronulla 15.
Past 8 clashes
2016: Manly d Cronulla 22-12, Brookvale Oval
2015: Manly d Cronulla 14-12, Remondis Stadium, Manly d Cronulla 28-16, Brookvale Oval.
2014: Manly d Cronulla 26-0, Remondis Stadium; Manly d Cronulla 24-4, Brookvale Oval.
2013: Manly d Cronulla 24-18, Allianz Stadium; Manly d Cronulla 25-18, Brookvale Oval.
2012: Cronulla d Manly 17-14, Toyota Stadium.
The last decade (2006-16)
Played 18: Manly 15, Cronulla 3
Since 2003 (when Manly returned to the competition after the Northern Eagles)
Played 24: Manly 17, Cronulla 7
Longest winning streaks by Manly over Cronulla
10 games: March 18, 1967 to Feb 19, 1971
Current winning streak by Manly over Cronulla
7 games: April 14, 2013 to present
Manly’s last loss at Cronulla’s home ground
June 17, Rd 15, 2006: Cronulla 15 d Manly 12. Brett Stewart and Steve Matai are the only current Manly players to have played in that match.
