Cherry-Evans’ Perfect Farewell: Manly Clinches Dramatic Victory Over Warriors in Final Round Thriller

Historic Start and Emotional Finish in Season Finale

The match began with an unprecedented moment in NRL history as Warriors’ James Fisher-Harris scored the fastest try ever recorded, crossing the line just nine seconds into the game. The remarkable score came after Daly Cherry-Evans let the ball bounce from the kickoff, which then deflected off Jason Saab into Fisher-Harris’s hands.

The Sea Eagles showed remarkable resilience, bouncing back from this early setback to take a 14-10 lead into halftime. Cherry-Evans demonstrated his class by executing a trademark 40-20 kick to regain momentum, setting up Lehi Hopoate’s try in the corner.

Injuries and Intensity

The Warriors faced significant setbacks during the match, with centre Rocco Berry being transported to hospital with a dislocated shoulder, forcing a backline reshuffle. The situation worsened when second-rower Marata Niukore experienced hamstring issues, though he managed to return to the field.

Cherry-Evans’ Fairytale Finish

In a script that couldn’t have been written better, Cherry-Evans played a decisive role in his final appearance for the club. With five minutes remaining, he stepped up to slot the 29th field goal of his career, giving his team a crucial seven-point advantage.

Dramatic Conclusion

The match’s final moments were intense as Manly was reduced to 11 players through sin-binnings. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak scored in the corner as the final siren sounded, with Tanah Boyd’s sideline conversion bringing the margin to just one point, but Cherry-Evans’ earlier field goal proved the difference.

Playoff Implications

The Warriors will need to improve considerably as they head into the playoffs. They’re set to face four-time defending champions Penrith in a sixth versus seventh clash, unless the Panthers suffer an unexpected loss to St George-Illawarra, in which case they’ll meet the Roosters.