Daly Cherry-Evans was the brightest star on the field during that historic match. His sensational form saw the Manly Sea Eagles crush the Brisbane Broncos 34-6. The 36-year-old future hall of famer was the essential man in the win. He doubled down on this with a sharp barb towards his doubters following Queensland’s recent State of Origin defeat.
Cherry-Evans delivered his best performance in months at Brookvale, setting up three tries and routing the Broncos with his impressive kicking game. His talent for getting the Sea Eagles out of danger spells his overall influence on the pitch, solidifying his authority as a player. Viewers saw Cherry-Evans breathe life into pretty much the entire SEA right edge, bringing depth and fluency back to their attacking game plan.
It was during this time that Cherry-Evans showed how well he can work with teammate Lehi Hopoate. Their collaborative relationship turned out to be key. Cherry-Evans’ long pass found Hopoate out wide, who in turn brought Haumole Olakau’atu into space to score right on half time. This sequence very much epitomised Cherry-Evans’ influence on all areas of the game. He carried the momentum for the Sea Eagles as a captain should.
Not only did Cherry-Evans create points, but he crossed the try line himself late in the match. He jumped to defuse a field goal attempt from Luke Brooks and scored a second try after diving on the loose ball. His precision passing was key in placing Faulalo’s second try on a platter. Cherry-Evans swept the ball to the right, allowing Hopoate to throw the perfect cut-out pass.
This brilliant performance comes only days after initial doubts were cast about Cherry-Evans’ role in the Maroons’ lineup. It’s the way he responded when the pressure was turned up against him that shouts the loudest to his experience and resilience. His stunning attack from hand and tee sent Nathan Brown’s stocks through the roof. Brown marked his return to the fold in style with a try, his first since 2022.
Cherry-Evans shows no sign of aging as he stampedes Brisbane. Cherry-Evans produced an astonishing effort against the Broncos. His presence and play-making ability are still felt on and off the field. He was instrumental in the Sea Eagles’ record-breaking victory and it was all done in front of his harshest critics. Beyond the obvious achievement, this win reconfirmed his presence as a key player of his club and their state.
