Manly have shown better resolve this week.
Their defence improved as the game wore on and they finished the half the better side.
Apart of it is because Cronulla lack that killer punch. Their sole try came from a good cross-field kick from Maloney, otherwise the gameplan seems off. For whatever reason, they're really trying to work DCE over when their strength is all down the other side of the field. Townsend, Barba, Bird and Holmes have been their most likely at the start of the season but they've received very few opportunities to take on Matai and Taufua. In fact, when Bird has received the ball it's usually to take on Walker back on the inside.
But credit to Manly, there were some positive signs there. I really like the inclusion of Tom Symonds on the fringe - he's been great next to DCE and has come up with some good plays in defence. Also got to give a wrap to their backs, they've really helped their forwards out and given Manly plenty of opportunities to hit-back. Unfortunately the play hasn't been quite there for Manly with a lot of passes going behind players.
That try to Parcell should do them the world of good. They didn't deserve it at all, it was horrible play from Vave but the play from Lawrence on Lewis was fantastic. And boy, you do not want to give Parcell an inch. If ya blink, he scores.