Match Report: Jersey Flegg Cup Round 12 vs Eels

Poor starts to both halves proved to be costly for the boys in maroon and white, with another two competition points slipping away.

Manly showed they can run with the top guns with some exciting football being played to get points on the board. Ultimately, their errors and defence in their own territory pet them down.

The Eels shot out to a quick 18-0 lead thanks to three quick tries in the opening 15 minutes.

The home side’s control on the match was short lived as the Sea Eagles went on to score three tries in a 13-minute period to be back within touching distance.

Zachary Karam won an aerial duel and came down with the ball in the 19th minute to score in the left corner.

A quick shift to the left edge and a stunning off-load by Jett Jackson sent full-back Riley Pennell over in the corner four minutes later.

Manly hooker TJ Herring capped off the comeback in the 33rd minute with a crafty try from the ruck, sneaking under the defence to score for an 18-16 scoreline.

Parramatta regained control of the match with a try on the stroke of halftime through Isaac Jim for a 24-16 lead at the break.

The Eels’ strong attack carried over to the second half, with the home side scoring two tries in ten minutes to hold a 34-16 lead.

Manly fought back into the match with a try in the 53rd minute. A beautiful cut-out pass by captain Callum Dowell sent Aymn Hamilton over in the right corner four a 34-20 scoreline.

Parramatta scored in the 66th minute to all but seal victory, with Josh Lynn going over for a try to push the lead out to 40-20.

A quick shift to the left edge by Manly found Karam with the ball. Some quick thinking saw the winger grubber kick the ball and get around the defender to ground the ball for his second try in the corner. The conversion was unsuccessful for the final scoreline of 40-24.

The Sea Eagles take on the Melbourne Storm on Sunday June 1, 12pm, at 4 Pines Park.