Five things we learnt from yesterday's game1. Brett Stewart narrowly won the battle of the fullbacks
From his first test, a bomb in front of the posts, Brett Stewart did everything asked of him. He also made a try-saving tackle on Blake Ferguson right on the stroke of half-time and another on Tom Learoyd-Lahrs in the second half. Josh Dugan took a little while to warm into the game, but got better as it went on, scoring a try early in the second half.
2. Canberra have a problem getting back 10 metres.
It wasn't just the fact that Canberra were on the wrong end of an 8-3 penalty count, it was the manner in which they gave them away. Most of the penalties they conceded were for being inside the 10 metres, letting the Sea Eagles out of their half on several occasions, which cost them dearly.
3. Matt Ballin will be a huge loss if he's forced out of Manly at the end of the year.
The off-contract hooker is probably the most underrated player in the Manly line-up. He does so much, not only in attack, but in defence as well. He gets the Sea Eagles rolling forward and provides his halves with quality service. He would be the regular Maroons hooker if Cameron Smith wasn't around.
4. Shaun Berrigan needs to remain at hooker for Canberra.
Travis Waddell doesn't offer what Shaun Berrigan does for Canberra. Berrigan started the game in the centres but moved into hooker just before half-time, which is when the Raiders looked their most dangerous. It also allows coach David Furner to play Jack Wighton in the centres.
5. Liam Foran would be a good buy for a club in need of a five-eighth.
The older Foran brother has made a fist of his opportunity in the absence of Kieran Foran. He was punishing in defence, inspiring his teammates with a series of big hits, in particularly on Ferguson in the first half, which left the Raiders winger rattled. He's also been strong in attack and has a smart kicking game.
Source: The Courier
Topic: Five things we learnt from yesterday's game
