Round 20: Sea Eagles v Panthers preview
Two sides look to bounce back after 50-point drubbings
After challenging the table-topping Storm the week prior, the Sea Eagles were expected to lift against the Roosters in what was the club's old boys day. What ensued, however, was anything but inspiring as they slumped to an embarrassing 56-24 defeat.
Despite a strong 88% completion rate, Manly's laughable effort in defence meant that they gave themselves little chance of victory. The Roosters broke the Sea Eagles' line 14 times, constantly finding and exploiting holes in their defence.
Coach Trent Barrett was clearly not impressed, storming out of the sheds at half time, when his side trailed 34-6.
After a brief mid-season revival, which saw the Sea Eagles trounce highly-fancied opposition including the Storm and Broncos, Barrett's men have gone on to lose six of their next seven.
What is particularly concerning is the fact that Manly have conceded 32 points or more in three of those games and they rank the third-worst defensive side in the competition as a result.
While pride is on the line for the Sea Eagles this week, their opposition will be equally motivated after also conceding over 50 points last round.
Penrith's 50-18 loss was shocking for a number of reasons.
Only the week prior, without their Origin stars, the Panthers tested a near full-strength Sharks outfit before eventually falling 24-12. They headed to Suncorp Stadium bolstered by the return of James Maloney, Nathan Cleary, Tyrone Peachey and Josh Mansour. Even more importantly, they had a lot to play for as they looked to keep in touch with the top four. It appeared the perfect chance for the Panthers to kickstart their premiership charge following the draining Origin period.
They even had a pre-game camp in the Gold Coast to get ready, including a night of shenanigans at Timezone. Unfortunately, it looked like they had never left their minds on the arcade store as they conceded 32 points in the first half alone.
Previously, the Panthers had only conceded more than 30 points once in 2018. In fact, only a month ago they had the best defence in the competition.
Their extensive casualty ward finally seems to be catching up with Anthony Griffin's men, who have lost four of their past five games. More concerning is the fact that the average deficit from their four defeats has been 20 points.
Fortunately, they are boosted by the return of Dallin Watene-Zelezniak this week, but he won't play in his preferred position of fullback.
Rather, Christian Crichton has been axed for his recent form with Watene-Zelezniak replacing the soon-to-be Bulldog on the wing.
Meanwhile, Tyrone Peachey is the surprising choice in the number one jersey, with Tyrone May rewarded with a spot on the bench in Peachey's place.
Now level on points with the Broncos and Warriors, the Panthers are a genuine chance of missing the top eight if they don't arrest their concerning form slump.
Last Meeting: The Sea Eagles stunned Penrith 18-10 only four weeks ago at Panthers Stadium.
Who to watch: The return of Dylan Walker could be exactly what Manly need to avoid further embarrassment. Despite being restricted to just 48 minutes in his last game against Penrith, the Sea Eagles five-eighth still managed impressive numbers. Most notably, he broke seven tackles and ran for 83 metres in a promising display. Fill-in rookie Tom Wright was found out in defence early against the Roosters and was subsequently hooked after just 38 minutes. Walker's return looks like it may be a very timely one and he should bring plenty of energy to a currently lifeless Manly side.
Since guiding the Blues to a 2-1 series win over Queensland, James Maloney hasn't returned to club footy with any renewed confidence. Rather, he has looked sluggish and lacked his usual energy and intent in attack. His questionable defence also featured in last week's 32-point loss to Brisbane, with the five-eighth missing a whopping 11 tackles. It appears as if Maloney is carrying an injury, yet it is hard to believe that it's that serious given the quality replacements Penrith have if they chose to rest him. As such, there are no real excuses for his poor form. Maloney usually thrives under pressure and the Panthers need his leadership more than ever right now.
Favourite: Despite their poor recent form, the Panthers are backed to win this one.
My tip: Both sides will be desperate to make amends after equally disappointing results last round. With much more to play for, the Panthers should have more desire and that will be the difference on Saturday afternoon. Panthers by 16.
