Manly Warringah prop Jake Trbojevic says Kiwi international Martin Taupau is a player that must be watched closely at Brookvale Oval this Friday night.
Taupau produced one of the finest forward performances of the season in driving Wests Tigers to a big victory over premiers South Sydney at ANZ Stadium last Friday night. The Tigers head into the game two points ahead of the Sea Eagles who are coming off their second bye.
“He was very good against Souths. He is one we will have to watch out for,’’ Trbojevic said.
Trbojevic has been the Sea Eagles' best forward this season. The young bull hasn't taken a backwards step and will be up for the challenge again against big Keith Galloway, who will play his 200th NRL match.
Hooker Matt Ballin identified Taupau's leg drive as a weapon.
“He had a great game the other night and as a team, we will have to work really hard to get numbers in on him and stop his leg drive,’’ Ballin said.
“That is where his strength is. If you try and go high, he will do (the fend) on you.
“We will have to watch Marty but collectively as a team, we will have to be good.”
The Sea Eagles will be hoping their impressive record against Wests Tigers at ‘Fortress Brookvale’ over the years will continue on Friday. Manly Warringah have won 6 of the 7 matches played there between the two teams, the most recent being a 40-8 victory last year.
Friday night’s match will be the first in five weeks at Brookvale Oval and the first game back there for half-back Daly Cherry-Evans following his decision to remain at the Sea Eagles.
The Sea Eagles will be hoping Cherry-Evans pulls through the second State of Origin match well on Wednesday night and can back up two nights later. Wests Tigers will be hoping the same for Robbie Farah and Aaron Woods.
Supporters can take advantage of the special $20* GA adult price for the match.
Family GA tickets have also been discounted to just $50*. Limited time and tickets are available for both these offers.
Tickets can be purchased HERE. Kick-off 7.45pm
Manly v Wests Tigers
Played 21: won 13, lost 8
At Brookvale Oval: Played 7, won 6, lost 1
