The Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, one of the most iconic clubs in the National Rugby League (NRL), have a storied history marked by exceptional talent and a commitment to excellence. Over the years, this esteemed rugby league team has been home to some of the sport’s most outstanding players. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 9 best Manly Sea Eagles players of all time, highlighting their career statistics, defining moments, and the remarkable skills that set them apart.
1. Bob Fulton
Career Stats: Bob Fulton, also known as “Bozo,” enjoyed a stellar playing career, making 219 appearances for the Sea Eagles and scoring 129 tries. He was an electrifying center and five-eighth with exceptional ball-handling skills.
Best Moments: Fulton captained the Sea Eagles to their first two premierships in 1972 and 1973, solidifying his status as a club legend. He is also renowned for his successful coaching career.
2. Steve Menzies
Career Stats: Steve Menzies, a versatile forward, played a remarkable 349 NRL games for the Sea Eagles and scored 180 tries. His ability to score tries as a forward is a testament to his incredible skills.
Best Moments: Menzies was part of Manly’s successful era in the late 1990s and early 2000s, winning premierships in 1996 and 2008. He is one of the highest try-scorers in NRL history.
3. Cliff Lyons
Career Stats: Cliff Lyons, known as “Napper,” had an illustrious career with 309 NRL appearances for the Sea Eagles and 165 tries. He was a creative and skillful halfback.
Best Moments: Lyons played a pivotal role in Manly’s premiership victories in 1987 and 1996 and is celebrated for his flair and ability to change the course of a game with his brilliance.
4. Geoff Toovey
Career Stats: Geoff Toovey, a tough and uncompromising halfback, made 286 NRL appearances for the Sea Eagles. He was known for his leadership on the field and exceptional defensive skills.
Best Moments: Toovey’s tenacity and commitment were evident throughout his career, and he played a key role in the Sea Eagles’ premiership victories in 1996 and 2008.
5. Brett Stewart
Career Stats: Brett Stewart, known as “Snake,” made 233 NRL appearances for the Sea Eagles and scored 163 tries. He was a prolific and agile fullback.
Best Moments: Stewart played a crucial role in Manly’s premiership wins in 2008 and 2011 and was known for his blistering pace and try-scoring ability.
6. Des Hasler
Career Stats: Des Hasler, primarily known as a coach, was also an exceptional player. He made 256 appearances for the Sea Eagles and was a skillful five-eighth and halfback.
Best Moments: Hasler’s playing career contributed to Manly’s success in the late 1980s, including the 1987 premiership victory. He later enjoyed a successful coaching career with the Sea Eagles.
7. Daly Cherry-Evans
Career Stats: Daly Cherry-Evans is a current star of the Sea Eagles, having made over 250 NRL appearances and counting. He is a dynamic halfback known for his playmaking skills.
Best Moments: Cherry-Evans has been a consistent performer and captain for Manly, leading the team to multiple finals appearances and showcasing his exceptional kicking and ball-handling abilities.
8. Jamie Lyon
Career Stats: Jamie Lyon, a skillful center and goal-kicker, made 199 NRL appearances for the Sea Eagles and scored 105 tries. He was known for his impeccable kicking and defensive skills.
Best Moments: Lyon played a pivotal role in Manly’s premiership wins in 2008 and 2011 and was regarded as one of the best centers of his era.
9. Glenn Stewart
Career Stats: Glenn Stewart, a versatile forward, played 185 NRL games for the Sea Eagles and scored 63 tries. He was known for his exceptional ball-handling skills and work rate.
Best Moments: Stewart was a key figure in Manly’s premiership victories in 2008 and 2011, showcasing his ability to create opportunities for his team.
These 10 Manly Sea Eagles players have left an indelible mark on the club’s history, delighting fans with their exceptional skills, dedication, and memorable moments on the rugby league field. Their contributions have helped shape the Sea Eagles into one of the most respected and successful clubs in the NRL.