A double each to Teddy Wilson and Daniel O’Donnell saw the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles record a 28-8 win over the Sydney Roosters in the Harold Matthews Cup on Saturday.
Half-back Wilson and hooker O’Donnell have been two of the team’s shining lights in the first seven rounds of the U16s competition. Both are Manly juniors with Wilson, the vice-captain, hailing from the Beacon Hill Bears Club and O’Donnell, the team captain, from Christian Brothers.
The Sea Eagle led 16-4 at half-time in the match at Blacktown and ran in five tries to two. The other tryscorer for Manly was winger Quentin Lemoto while Wilson also landed four goal from five attempts for a personal tally of 16 points.
Manly Coach John Michael said both players benefitted from the strong effort put in by prop Israel Ahofono.
“Israel truly led the way up front. His leadership was superb,’’ Michael said.
“He played the full 30 minutes of the first half and really did produce a quality performance.
“Teddy and Daniel were then able to capitalise on his work and run the team on the back of Israel’s efforts.”
The Sea Eagles have now won five of their six matches to sit in third place with two rounds remaining before the finals.
Manly now play the 12th placed Central Coast Roosters in round eight at Lottoland on Saturday, March 30. Kick-off is 12pm.
