Butcher bags a brace in battle of the birds

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Sydney Roosters v Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles

An emphatic first half has seen the Sydney Roosters open their 2022 account with a 26-12 victory over the Manly Sea Eagles at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Facing off against their long-standing rivals for the first time since bowing out in the semi finals last year, the Tricolours laid the foundations for the win by nullifying Tom Trbojevic's influence, leaving the Sea Eagles winless after two rounds.

Coming out of the blocks intent on making a statement after a uncharacteristic performance in the opening round, reigning Rookie of the Year Sam Walker fired an immediate attacking shot by splitting the Manly defence with a terrific step before linking with Drew Hutchison (2nd minute) in support for first points.

Keeping pace with clock during the first ten minutes, Daniel Tupou (8th minute) finished off a left-side raid involving James Tedesco and Sitili Tupouniua to cross out wide for his first four-pointer of the season.

Connor Watson provided an immediate impact off the bench midway through proceedings by laying on a try for Nat Butcher (23rd minute), while Tupouniua (32nd minute) completed the first half rout courtesy of a short pass from Luke Keary close to the line.

Coming out of the sheds following a heavy downpour during the halftime break, the Sea Eagles managed to stem the flow of points before striking back with a four-pointer of their own courtesy of a barge over effort from Karl Lawton (54th minute).

Silencing any hope of a Manly comeback after Keary sent Butcher (68th minute) over for his maiden brace in first grade, a consolation effort to Daly Cherry-Evans (75th minute) shortly before fulltime saw the Roosters run out 26-12 winners.

Next week, the Roosters will take on their archrivals the Rabbitohs in a Friday night blockbuster at Accor Stadium, while the Sea Eagles will return home for the first time on Sunday evening against the Bulldogs.