Haumole Olakauátu on the charge against Penrith today. Photo: Bryden Sharp Photography
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles recorded an impressive 28-20 victory over Penrith Panthers at Pepper Stadium in round 18 of the Holden Cup competition today.
The Sea Eagles went into the game against the second placed Panthers in sixth place but victory has moved them temporarily into fourth place on the ladder subject to other results.
In chilly conditions, the Sea Eagles opened the scoring when winger Jade Anderson scored in the left corner after five-eighth Tom Wright split the defence open for a 4-0 lead.
Manly went to a 10-0 lead after nine minutes after Anderson converted a try to winger Alfred Smalley after the ball was shifted right through quick hands.
A break down the left flank saw Penrith centre Mose Feilo score the opening try for his team. Half-back Dean Blore converted for a 10-6 scoreline after 15 minutes.
A strong run and great strength by Manly prop Taniela Paseka saw him carry a few defenders over the line for a 14-6 lead. Anderson converted for a 16-6 lead after 17 minutes.
Two minutes later, a grubber kick in-goal was pounced on by centre Blake Andrews to give Manly another try. Anderson converted from close to the posts for a 22-6 lead after 20 minutes.
Penrith then hit back to trail 22-14 at half-time through tries to wingers Brian Too and Daniel Brown.
Second Half
Both sides were strong in defence with no points scored until the 71st minute when Manly centre Blakde Andrews beat three defenders to score out wide. Anderson converted for a 28-14 lead.
Penrith reduced the scoreline to 28-20 in the 77th minute when Brown scored his second try.
Manly play the 15th-placed Wests Tigers at Lottoland next Sunday, July 16.
