Why Manly Marlins have had a red-hot start to the season

THE determination of the Manly Marlins players to restore lost pride has been the catalyst for their red hot start to this year’s Shute Shield.

Manly Marlins centre Kevin Fuavao dellivers a “don’t argue” against Sydney University. Picture: Adam Yip.

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THE determination of the Manly Marlins players to restore lost pride has been the catalyst for their red hot start to this year’s Shute Shield.

After defeating Souths 35-17 at Forshaw Park in round one, the Marlins backed that up with a big 36-10 win over traditional powerhouse Sydney University at Manly Oval on Saturday and are emerging as a genuine premiership contender.

“We all know we had a bad season last year and everyone was pretty gutted about it,” hooker James Hilterbrand said.

“Last year was unacceptable and we all acknowledge that.

“As long as I have been at the club there are a few pillars we hang our hat on — defence and culture have been two of those things.

The Marlins cross for a try against Sydney University, Picture; Adam Yip.

“And we were leaking too many points, we weren’t enjoying it and we didn’t make the finals which is the first time as long as I can remember in first grade.

“I was probably embarrassed to be honest with you.”

He said the players got together and spoke about restoring that pride and returning to the Manly of old.

“It’s a player driven, player led thing and Billy (coach Brian Melrose) is doing a great job giving us the tools,” Hilterbrand said.

“Now it’s just up to the 15 ugly blokes who take the field to do something about it.”

Manly centre Kevin Fuavao takes on the Sydney University defence. Picture: Adam Yip.

He said on Saturday against Uni the set piece from the forwards was good and some of the creativity from the backs was impressive.

Five-eighth Sam Lane was the midfield general and powerful centre recruit from New Zealand Kevin “Roses” Fuavao is starting to make his presence felt.

Coach Melrose said while the performance was really good in some areas, there is a lot of room for improvement in others

“My only concern is how the team focuses towards this Saturday’s challenge against Parramatta,” Melrose said.