Dimmed Dragons lacking former spark

LAST year when Manly played St George Illawarra, the Dragons were the reigning premiers and they came up with one of the performances of the season.

Jamie Lyon

THIS time last year when Manly played St George Illawarra down in Wollongong, the Dragons were the reigning premiers and they came up with one of the performances of the season.

Remember that night and how they kept the Sea Eagles out for something like six or seven straight sets defending their own tryline? It was one of the bravest team efforts of the year.

Last night at Brookvale, they only trailed the current reigning premiers 6-2 at half-time before eventually going down 20-8.

But despite the closeness of the contest for most of the match, something was missing. You can't accuse the Dragons of not having a go because, if they still do one thing very well, it's have a go.

Even last night in defeat, coach Steve Price spoke of his pride after the loss.

But the problem for the Dragons right now is that even their best effort is not good enough to match it with the best.

And this is what last night really highlighted when all is said and done. Because while the Dragons still pride themselves on having a go, with the ball in their hands they represent such little danger.

Last night made it four losses out of their past five games, with their only win the lucky escape over Parramatta last week.

Then you look at what Manly has to offer, and what's more, how much better they will get from here. You get the feeling the Sea Eagles are happy just going half pace as they try and ride their way through this tough Origin period.

Last night Anthony Watmough was again playing busted (there's no way the Blues can gamble on him for Origin II) and poor Kieran Foran was playing on one leg from about the 15th minute with only his enormous heart getting him through the game.

Then you think big Tony Williams was out injured, Steve Matai suspended, Jason King crook and still they beat the Dragons in second gear. Down the right edge, Manly were enormous.

That combination of Glenn Stewart and Jamie Lyon laid on a hat-trick of tries for young winger Michael Oldfield - and don't you just wish Lyon would change his mind about making a comeback for NSW?

Throw in the danger Brett Stewart represents every time he gets close to the action and you can understand why opposition teams will be looking over their shoulder when the premiers are fighting fit and finally click into gear in the months ahead.

But for the Dragons, where to now? Last night they went home without the points again and you really have to wonder if there will be too much to cheer from here on in.

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