Match Report: NSW Cup Round 24 vs Warriors

Caleb Navale was a welcome addition to the Manly team, the 23-year-old lock playing his first game of the season following an ACL injury, in the team’s final game at 4 Pines Park for 2026.

It was also an opportunity to get a look at Manly-bound edge forward, Kayliss Fatialofa, who is captain the fourth-placed New Zealand outfit.

The Warriors, who were held scoreless in the second half, ran in three tries to two in miserable conditions to secure an 18-12 victory.

Manly opened the scoring in the 12th minute when prop D’Jazirhae Pua’avase crashed over from close range following sustained pressure inside the Warriors’ 20-metre zone. Fullback Tex Hoy added the extras to give Manly a 6-0 lead.

The Warriors hit back midway through the first half when centre Jye Linnane broke through Manly’s defence to score. Halfback Jett Cleary converted to level the scores at 6-all.

Moments later, the Warriors crossed for their second try when five-eighth Luke Hanson slid through the defence to score. Cleary converted from close range to give the visitors a 12-6 lead.

The Warriors extended their lead with seven minutes remaining in the half when Linnane crossed for his second try of the day. Cleary remained perfect with the boot, taking the score to 18-6 at halftime.

Manly scored the only try of the second half in the 56th minute when an accurate grubber from Hoy found centre Josh Feledy, who crossed for the Sea Eagles’ second try. Hoy nailed his second conversion to reduce the deficit to six points.

Despite a determined second-half effort, Manly were unable to find the points needed to level the scores, eventually falling to a narrow 18-12 defeat.

The Sea Eagles will take on the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium next Sunday, August 22, at 10.30am.