Cherry-Evans, however, somehow stopped two-metre prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona from scoring close to the line on Saturday night, which boosted the Sea Eagles and reminded fans that he is determined to give everything he has before exiting the club after 14 seasons.
“I don’t know how you stop Nelson in that instance – I don’t know who stops him, but ‘Chez’ did,” Trbojevic said.
Manly players celebrate after beating Melbourne.Credit: Getty Images
“It was a great effort. Looking back, it was a game-defining moment. The weight difference between Chez and Nelson makes it a great tackle, let alone [how close to the line he was].”
Trbojevic captained NSW to an Origin series victory last year, but was overlooked completely this year, which has only allowed him to stay physically and mentally fresh for seventh-placed Manly’s charge home.
“You’re always disappointed to miss out, but that’s life, and I do feel fresh, especially after a couple of byes,” he said. “We need to keep it going this weekend against Canterbury, who are a bloody good side.”
Manly will welcome back star second-rower Haumole Olakau’atu, whose battle with opposite number Viliame Kikau looms as a highlight. The Dogs will take their home game to Allianz Stadium as part of 30-year grand final celebrations, marking their victory over the Sea Eagles in the 1995 decider.
NRL is Live and Free on Channel 9 & 9Now