Play-off prize in sight for Warriors
Rugby League 
/ James Cleary / 20 August 2010 / Leave a comment Bet Now
Having won four of their last five on the road, and buoyed by last week’s success, the Warriors will be confident of nicking the points here.
James Cleary believes play-off qualification is the aim for both sides when the Sea Eagles host Warriors at Brookvale Oval.
The Warriors in sixth are a place and two points above their hosts. Three other teams are in contention around the top eight, and victory for either side would all but secure their own end-of-season involvement.
The Sea Eagles were defeated 32-10 by leaders the Dragons on Monday, with coach Des Hasler citing "fundamental errors" as main contributors to the loss. Despite controversy over a Mark Gasnier try for the leaders, the capitulation in the last quarter will also have displeased the coach, who has seen his side show inconsistent form this year.
The Warriors were 22-10 winners over the Knights last Sunday to boost their top-eight hopes. Coach Ivan Cleary saw 17-try Manu Vatuvei claim a hat-trick to move him to within two tries of Stacey Jones' all-time record of 77 tries for the club. Having won seven of their last nine, they could be ones to avoid should they make the top eight.
Last time out, Manly were 14-6 winners in April over in New Zealand, while the Warriors were victors 26-24 in the previous fixture in March 2009. Overall, Manly have won 11 of 17, including six of the past nine games between the sides.
The Sea Eagles could have Ben Farrar back from a knee injury, while there are hopes Josh Perry's injury can heal should they reach the play-offs. Brett Stewart and David Williams are out until next year with knee and shoulder injuries respectively. Will Hopoate (hamstring) comes back in for Michael Oldfield, who misses out.
Jerome Ropati could return for the Warriors from a groin problem, while wing Kevin Locke again misses out. Steve Price and Elijah Taylor are out for the rest of 2010. Ian Henderson is doubtful with an ankle problem that forced him off last time out, but he is named in an unchanged squad.
Having won four of their last five on the road, and buoyed by last week's success, the Warriors will be confident of nicking the points here. Both sides have a 6-4 record in 2010 - the Sea Eagles at home, the Warriors away, so it's a close one to call, but I give the Warriors the edge by single figures.
