Newcastle upset bumbling Sea Eagles

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Newcastle Knights v Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles

The Knights have delivered a surprise victory for their home fans at McDonald Jones Stadium, upsetting Manly 18-10.

The match started with Newcastle seemingly in control, but unable to take advantage. They got close enough through Daniel Saifiti who lost the ball at the line in the opening minutes.

Sadly for the hosts though, Manly wrestled back the momentum around the ten minute mark, Brad Parker taking advantage of some poor Newcastle right side defence after Karl Lawton found a gap in the line thanks to some clever play by Daly Cherry-Evans.

Manly were able to extend their lead after 27 minutes when Jason Saab scored an entertaining long-range try. Reuben Garrick's conversion - after missing the earlier one - gave them a 10-0 lead.

Things got a little intense for the remaining part of the half. Manly appeared to have scored only for a Bunker review to rule foul play - head contact no less - in the lead up from Tevita Funa. His contact on Starford To'a saw him placed on report - but not sin binned.

The decision for the officiating team a few minutes later (32nd minute) was more clear cut - Sean Keppie took Newcastle half Phoenix Crossland high and was sent to the sin bin. The hosts took full advantage - To'a and Sauaso Sue both crossing in the remaining time before the break.

The second half went almost completely without points - Newcastle retaining a two-point lead until the final two minutes when Saifiti scored the try he was cruelly denied in the opening minutes. The sin bin was troubled twice more as well - Martin Taupau for a shoulder charge at the 59th minute and David Klemmer in the dying seconds were both given marching orders for ten minutes.

The win sets up a great week for the Knights, who host Parramatta next Sunday at the same venue, celebrating Old Boys Day. Manly have the bye.