Match Preview: Jersey Flegg Round 8 vs Eels

The talent and commitment are there but it’s just the lack of execution that is denying the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles a much-needed victory in the Jersey Flegg Cup.

It was all there to see again last weekend, with the Sea Eagles only falling late to lose 30-6 to the Warriors in Auckland.

The Sea Eagles were right in the game with 10 minutes remaining before conceding three tries in eight minutes to remain winless after seven rounds.

“It’s very frustrating. We started well but couldn’t convert it into points. We also ran out of troops in the last 10 minutes,’’ said Manly Coach Chris Crotty.

“There has never been a question about our effort. It’s always been there. We just need to be better at executing our attack.”

In a beaten side, centre Benjamin Keene-O’Keefe and lock Charlie Boyle stood out while Manly full-back and prolific try scorer William Herbert made a solid return from injury.

A Manly junior, O’Keefe is a player of real talent and one to keep an eye on. A great defender who can hit hard, O’Keefe is a fine attacking left centre who just needs more quality ball to create chances.

Boyle is very creative in attack and showed his utility value against the Warriors by shifting from five-eighth to lock in another fine display.

Crotty added he was very pleased with the strong performances of Keene-O’Keefe and Charlie Boyle.

“Those boys have been very solid for us ever week. Benji is just so dangerous every time he touches the ball,’’ Crotty said.

The Sea Eagles now play the Parramatta Eels at St Marys Leagues Stadium on Friday, April 24, at 5.30pm.