Sea Eagles v Bulldogs preview

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Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

Competition heavyweights out to start 2016 with a win.

Having missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade last season, a new look Manly Sea Eagles side will be out to make an immediate impression in 2016. With former Dally M winner Trent Barrett taking over from club icon Geoff Toovey, the former representative playmaker has assembled a new look roster with the intention of restoring Manly to premiership contenders. Set to give new signings Dylan Walker, Apisai Koroisau, Nate Myles, Lewis Brown, Martin Taupau and Matt Parcell their club debuts; the Sea Eagles still boast some of the most experienced veterans in the NRL with Brett Stewart, Jamie Lyon and Steve Matai all boasting over 200 first grade games for the club. In his first game at the helm, Barrett has elevated former Dragon Nathan Green into the starting forward pack at the expense of Tom Symonds, with Siosaia Vave named as 18th man. Managing just two wins against Canterbury since 2012, Manly will be fully aware of the danger posed by the Bulldogs as they look to overcome a poor opening round record that has seen them lose six out of their last eight season openers.

After failing to deliver on their potential in 2015, Des Hasler will be desperate for the Bulldogs to produce a big season following a lacklustre exit in the Semi Finals. While a number of high-profile players have left the club in the off-season, most notably Trent Hodkinson, Tim Lafai and Frank Pritchard, the Bulldogs still boast an incredibly enviable squad headlined by captain James Graham. With Brett Morris out for four months with a knee injury, new signing Will Hopoate will start at fullback with experienced campaigner Chase Stanley earning a start in the centres. Having impressed in the lower grades, backrower Adam Elliott is set to debut off the bench ahead of 18th man Shaun Lane, while Danny Fualalo earns a place in the side following a one-match suspension incurred by David Klemmer in the pre-season win over Melbourne. Former Sea Eagles premiership winner Tony Williams will make his return to first grade after recovering from a pectoral tear that saw him miss the second half of last season.

Last meeting: Round 7 2015 - Bulldogs 28 Sea Eagles 16

Who to watch: While he may not boast the same profile as some of his fellow teammates, there is little doubt surrounding the ability of Lewis Brown as a competitor. Forced out of Penrith due to salary cap constraints, the New Zealand international has brought success everywhere he has gone. With the ability to play almost anywhere on the field, Brown will be a major player for the Sea Eagles courtesy of his dummy-half running and resolve in defence that will be of vital importance for Manly moving forward.

After an inconsistent season in 2015, Josh Reynolds will be looking to make a statement as part of a new look halves combination. With Trent Hodkinson joining Newcastle, Reynolds and Moses Mbye have been handed the responsibility of leading the Bulldogs to their first premiership in more than a decade. Renown for his competitive spirit and willingness to get involved, the former New South Wales playmaker looks set to make an impact as he approaches a century of appearances in first grade.

The favourite: Off the back of a strong recruitment drive and solid trial form, the Sea Eagles are expected to kick off the season with a win in front of the Brookvale faithful.

My tip: While both sides look set to improve upon their 2015 standings, Des Hasler will have the Bulldogs ready for an ambush at his former stomping ground. Bulldogs by 6.

5. Tom Trbojevic 2. Jorge Taufua 3. Jamie Lyon 4. Steve Matai 20. Brayden Wiliame 6. Dylan Walker 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Jake Trbojevic 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. Nate Myles 11. Lewis Brown 12. Nathan Green 13. Martin Taupau
Interchange: 14. Matt Parcell 15. Blake Leary 16. Darcy Lussick 18. Siosaia Vave

1. William Hopoate 2. Curtis Rona 3. Josh Morris 4. Chase Stanley 5. Sam Perrett 6. Josh Reynolds 7. Moses Mbye 8. Aiden Tolman 9. Michael Lichaa 10. James Graham 11. Josh Jackson 12. Tony Williams 13. Greg Eastwood
Interchange: 14. Sam Kasiano 16. Tim Browne 17. Adam Elliot 22. Lloyd Perrett

Referees: Gerard Sutton, Matt Noyen;