Hopoate
returns for Sea Eagles game against Dragons

Manly Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler has made sweeping positional changes to his side to take on the Dragons at this Sunday at Brookvale. Hasler is convinced it will make his side a difficult outfit to beat.

Brett Stewart is the new Sea Eagles fullback, veteran John Hopoate regains his wing spot with Chris Hicks shifting to centre and Andrew Walker to five eighth in a new look backline to take on the in form St.George Illawarra Dragons.

"Brett Stewart deserves his opportunity and is an exciting young player while Hopoate has worked really hard in the past month to get a chance on the wing," Hasler said.

Hasler said he had been toying with moving Andrew Walker to five eighth for some time.

Steve Menzies has been chosen at lock for his 250th first grade game while Solomon Haumono will start as front row with Daniel Heckenberg against the big Dragons pack.

The Manly side to play the St.George Dragons at Brookvale Oval on Sunday is: Brett Stewart, Scott Donald, Chris Hicks, Albert Torrens, John Hopoate, Andrew Walker, Michael Monaghan, Steve Menzies (c), Sam Harris, Anthony Watmough, Daniel Heckenberg, Chad Randall, Solomon Haumono. Replacements: Luke Williamson, Kylie Leuluai, Shane Dunley, Ian Donnelly, Nathan Tutt, Kane Cleal (two to be ommitted).