Manly see positives in year of missed opportunities

Scott Bailey | September 2, 2023

Manly insist there are positives to be taken out of their NRL season of missed opportunities, despite missing the finals for a second straight year.

The Sea Eagles finished 2023 with a resounding 54-12 flogging of Wests Tigers on Friday night, capping off a strong final month of the season.

Ultimately, Manly’s year was a case of what could have been, after they battled to stay in contention for the finals following Tom Trbojevic’s pectoral injury.

With their first-choice spine on the field, Manly held a 4-0 record with an average scoreline of 39-19 in their favour.

But they were left to rue an early-season draw to Newcastle, a golden-point loss to South Sydney and home-defeat to Gold Coast that all proved crucial.

Josh Schuser’s lack of fitness and form was also a major issue, before Anthony Seibold’s men finished 12th and three points out of the finals amid a slew of late-season injuries.

Still, the Sea Eagles will see genuine positives in 2023.

Taniela Paseka developed into a genuine damaging starter at prop, while fellow forward Toff Sipley also showed signs of fulfilling his potential late in the season.

Haumole Olakau’atu had his best season in the second row, Ben Trbojevic developed into a starting first-grader and Tolu Koula broke through in the final two rounds.

Daly Cherry-Evans is still contracted until 2026 and had one of the best years of his career, while Tom Trbojevic’s pre-season should be relatively unaffected.

“It’s been a year of growth,” Seibold said.

“Obviously we would want to still be playing next week. That’s a given. Every team in the competition wants to get through to the finals. 

“The group is really well connected. They’re really good group to coach and to work with. I feel like we made some some steps forward.

“I think we found out what’s our best footy looks like on both sides the ball.

“It’s been really pleasing to see some guys like Tolu Koula over the last couple of weeks, moved him positions and he’s taken it very well. 

“Gordy (Chan Kum Tong) coming off the bench last couple of weeks, has added a lot of energy and enthusiasm. Raymond Tuaimalo Vaega, to name only three.”

Manly will welcome Luke Brooks, Tommy Talau and Jaxson Paulo next season, while Aaron Woods and Brad Parker are uncontracted but hopeful of staying on.