| Marlins claw their way back into finals contention By MRFC |
| What: Shute Shield round 15 |
| Who: Manly v Southern Districts |
| Where: Forshaw Rugby Park |
| Result: Manly 30-19 |
| Manly is where on the table: Fifth (42 points) |
80 minutes in 80 seconds:
Cold and very windy conditions greeted the Marlins at Forshaw Rugby Park in what was always going to be a tricky afternoon. Manly started the brighter and took full advantage of the strong breeze at their backs. They crossed first through fullback Ben Howard then soon after via Aaron Blacklock. Add a couple of penalties and the Marlins were sitting pretty at halftime leading 18-0. South's comeback commenced with a try right after half time and then a couple more from the driving maul. Late on it was looking likely that they were heading over to break Manly hearts but a fumble and 80 meters later the Marlins landed the knockout blow through Dennis Pili-Gaitau.
Where it was Won:
Manly's first half was excellent with Marlins five-eighth James Ohmsen controlling the game beautifully, keeping the Rebels pinned in their own half. The Marlins defence in the last stages deserves a mention too as Souths looked certain to score. How crucial that four-try bonus point was too!
Marlins' best:
James Ohmen, Dennis Pili-Gaitau, Luke Crocker & Sio Tatola
Worth a mention:
After a week out of the Top 6 the Marlins jump up two spots in 5th place. Manly will receive full points for the BYE in the final round but they will need to collect a win or two against Rats and Wests to make sure they are playing finals footy in 2019!
Where to Next:
It's the big one, Rat Park for Derby Day!
