Match Preview: NSW Cup Round 5 vs Bears

The Sea Eagles led Newcastle 18-12 at half-time before losing 46-24 in round two. Following a bye in round three, Manly trailed Sydney Roosters 14-12 at half-time before going down 44-18 last Saturday.

Kimmorley says the team has done some heavy soul searching into their second half performances and is expecting a better show against North Sydney Bears this Saturday in round five.

“We have spoken about how good we have played in the first half, how we followed game plans and our systems,’’ he said.

“Hopefully, we understand the importance of completing ball possession, so we don’t get suffocated in our own end of the field.

“If we do need to defend a couple of sets on our tryline, we have to show more resolve and a better ability to handle some pressure.”

Talented Manly half-back Joey Walsh will be looking to continue his good form after scoring two tries and having a hand in another against the Roosters.

The Bears have won two of their three matches and head into the game on the back of a 32-14 last round win over St George Dragons after leading 18-10 at half-time.

North Sydney sits fourth on the ladder with the Sea Eagles 11th.

The Sea Eagles take on the Bears in a home game at Lionel Watts Park, Belrose, on Saturday, April 4, from 3pm.