Moving has plus sides but Talau keen on Sea Eagles stay
Jasper Bruce |
Tommy Talau admits it “wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world” to jump ship from Manly and play at the same club as partner and NRLW superstar Jess Sergis.
But the utility is hopeful of staying put for 2026 and is likely to be joined by prop Matt Lodge, who is leaning towards taking up a player option to remain at the Sea Eagles.
Having missed last year’s clash through injury, Talau is preparing for a first game against former side Wests Tigers which 10th-placed Manly must win to keep their finals hopes on track.
For Talau, locking into Sunday’s crucial fixture may involve picking the brains of Sydney Roosters gun Sergis, who has helped her NRLW side remain undefeated through six rounds.
“She’s playing better than me so I need more tips from her,” he said.
“Recently she hasn’t been able to come to any of my games and vice versa but I’m always watching her on TV. I’m always hearing from her if I’m not playing the best.”
Talau is off contract and has endured a disrupted campaign for Manly, spending time out of the side due to injury and Anthony Seibold’s wealth of options in the outside backs.
Manly have opened talks on a one-year deal and while Talau is keen on staying, he’s definitely thought about the prospect of playing at the same club as Sergis.
That can’t yet happen at the Sea Eagles, who are one of five teams without an NRLW side.
“It wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world, it’d make it a lot easier to get to training – just go in the one car,” said a smiling Talau.
“But I’d still love to be at this club, I’ve told ‘Seibs’ and Pete (Gentle, head of football). But whatever happens, happens. I’m sure it’ll work itself out.”
Lodge has only a matter of weeks to tell Manly whether he will take up a player option to remain with the club in 2026 and had been linked with a move to the Super League.
But Lodge is feeling settled on the northern beaches, where he and his family have recently moved into their newly-built house.
“(Staying) is the preference,” Lodge said.
“My family’s here, we live in Mona Vale, the kids go to school here. I’m happy here.”
AAP
