For many fans, a decade of frustration comes to an end with Manly’s decision.
It’s finally good news, Manly fans. Fans of the Sea Eagles can celebrate the fact that one of their biggest weaknesses is almost over, despite the team’s recent two losses and yet another hamstring injury sustained by Tom Trbojevic. When Brisbane and Manly last faced each other in an NRL match at Brookvale Oval, Jamie Lyon was captain, Brett Stewart scored the game’s signature try, and the Sea Eagles were coached by Geoff Toovey.
It feels like a long time ago, and for good reason. Following an agreement struck by Manly bosses to move the team’s “home” games against Brisbane to Suncorp Stadium for the following eight years, the Broncos have not travelled to the northern beaches since 2014. And although at the time the decision might have made financial sense, Sea Eagles supporters have suffered greatly as a result of the deal.
Manly’s record since Brisbane was granted hosting rights is 2–5 going into Friday night’s “home” match against the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium. But the ordeal is almost over. Brisbane will not be able to visit Manly again after the Magic Round match, as the long-standing agreement comes to an end.
CEO Tony Mestrov told Yahoo Sport Australia, “The decision to move this particular home game to Brisbane made good financial sense and helped the club navigate some tough times.” “While no Manly player would voluntarily give up playing at Brookvale, at the time it was a wise business move.
We now have more power to control our own destiny, and hosting a home game at Suncorp Stadium does not take away from that. Even if the trade gave the team some financial advantages, facing a powerful team like the Broncos at home rather than at 4 Pines Park is undoubtedly a significant disadvantage.
