Rugby league icon Cooper Cronk has offered a stark evaluation of the Manly Sea Eagles’ prospects for the 2025 NRL finals, suggesting they might be one of four teams to miss out on the top eight. As the season progresses, Cronk and fellow analyst Matty Johns have identified the top six teams as likely locked in for the finals, leaving the Dolphins, Roosters, Sharks, and Sea Eagles to vie for the remaining two spots.
The recent defeat of Trent Robinson’s Sydney Roosters has intensified the competition among the remaining teams, providing a potential advantage for the Sea Eagles. However, Cronk remains skeptical about Manly’s ability to capitalize on this opportunity, citing key injuries and inconsistent performances as significant obstacles.
Injury Woes and Tactical Challenges
According to Cronk, the absence of pivotal players like Taniela Paseka (Achilles), Josh Aloiai (shoulder), and Nathan Brown (biceps) has left Anthony Seibold’s squad vulnerable, particularly in the middle of the field. “I don’t think Manly are playing well enough,” Cronk remarked on the Matty and Cronk podcast. “They are missing Paseka, some big guys through the middle that if they lose momentum, their defence is not good enough.”
These injuries have not only weakened Manly’s defensive capabilities but have also affected their overall game strategy. The Sea Eagles’ inconsistency has been a recurring issue, and Cronk’s assessment underscores the challenges they face in maintaining momentum against stronger teams.
Off-Field Distractions and Leadership Concerns
Meanwhile, Matty Johns has pointed to potential distractions within the club, particularly regarding Anthony Seibold’s future and the impending departure of star player Daly Cherry-Evans at the end of the 2025 season. “You still get a sense, without reaching into the off-field, that there’s still stuff going on,” Johns explained. “Manly are just so inconsistent. Once again, going back to those little noises coming out of the club, I don’t like.”
These off-field issues could further destabilize the team’s focus and performance as they approach the critical final rounds of the season. The uncertainty surrounding Seibold’s position and Cherry-Evans’ exit has already sent ripples through the rugby league community and could impact team morale.
Competition Intensifies for Final Spots
As the race for the finals heats up, Cronk has identified the Sharks as a team likely to secure a spot in the top eight, citing their strong performance under coach Craig Fitzgibbon. “The Sharks, under Craig Fitzgibbon, they are a finals team. They have got a decent run, so I think they finish seventh,” Cronk stated.
The battle for the final position appears to be between the Dolphins and the Roosters, with their upcoming Round 23 clash expected to play a pivotal role in determining which team advances. “They actually play each other in Round 23, and the Roosters have a poorer points differential between the two,” Cronk noted, highlighting the significance of this matchup.
Looking Ahead: Implications for the Sea Eagles
The Sea Eagles face a daunting task as they attempt to overcome their current challenges and secure a spot in the finals. With key players sidelined and off-field distractions looming, the team must find a way to rally and deliver consistent performances in the remaining rounds.
As the season unfolds, the decisions made by Seibold and the club’s management will be crucial in shaping Manly’s future. Whether they can address their tactical shortcomings and refocus amidst internal uncertainties will determine their fate in the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership.
