Sea Eagles' stinging defence bruises Bunnies' big-guns but not enough to take victory

SOUTH Sydney scored a bruising win against Manly on Friday Night after a brutally physical game.

Manly vs Souths

SOUTH Sydney scored a bruising win against Manly on Friday Night, in an encounter that saw three separate incidents placed on report, an all-in brawl, and the requisite spite expected of a Manly, Souths game.

The Sea Eagles targeted the Bunnies' big-guns all night with huge rushes in defence in a match played with finals-like intensity in front of 20,510 fans.

However, Rabbitohs coach Micahel Maguire fumed post-match after seeing Greg Inglis spear-tackled on two occasions by Manly replacement Ritchie Fa’aoso – the Bunnies mentor labelling the referee’s lack of action "madness".

"This area really needs to have a look at," Maguire said.

"At the end of the day what does it take to have someone sent off?

"Greggy lands on his head three times. It’s an area where we have to protect our players."

Despite Souths going to the break with a soccer-like 2-0 half time lead, it was Manly who dominated possession and bruised the Bunnies with their stinging defence.

But the Rabbitohs made their intentions clear on the resumption, with Greg Inglis racing 60m in the very first set to score from a set piece.

John Sutton added to the red and green tally minutes later after he touched down next to the posts to take the score to 14-0.

There was drama on the ensuing kick-off however when Steve Matai’s swinging arm hit George Burgess on the chin, knocking the ball loose and sending Burgess to the dirt.

Older brother Sam took exception to the high shot, racing in like a man possessed to defend his brother.
 
Despite a less than perfect night with the boot, Souths halfback Adam Reynolds still managed to lay a try on for centre Beau Champion from a well-placed cross-field kick in to the corner. Reynolds converted to bring the score to 20-0.

Manly put on a late charge to score two consolation tries, bringing the final score to 20-12.

The win places Souths in outright second position ahead of this Friday’s match with Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium.