The Sea Eagles may have fallen to their second defeat in as many games this season, but there could be light at the end of the tunnel with coach Des Hasler suggesting star fullback Tom Trbojevic is a "strong chance of playing next week".
His inclusion for the game against the Warriors in Christchurch would be a huge boost after they looked lifeless in attack before they clicked into gear to score three late tries during Saturday's 26-18 loss at home to the Roosters.
The halves pairing of Daly Cherry-Evans and Kale Elgey failed to fire for 60 minutes, although the former combined well with Manase Fainu and Reuben Garrick in the final quarter of the contest.
Trbojevic's impending return would provide the spark they've been missing in the opening fortnight, but even his inclusion won't be enough if the Sea Eagles continue to waste their chances.
While the Roosters were clinical in the first half, Manly produced errors and repeatedly kicked the ball dead in atrocious conditions on the northern beaches.
While it's too early to put a line through their finals prospects, they must address their issues ahead of clashes with the Warriors and Rabbitohs if they want to keep in touch with the top eight.
"There's a few areas in our game that we need to work on and that's our time and possession in field position. I thought we were a little careless in that regard and that's what they [Roosters] did well," Hasler said.
"They built pressure and it lasted and they were able to build points off that. We have to stay at the other end longer and execute better with the ball in field position.
"We know that if we can address those areas of possession and building pressure and aspects of our kicking game we're a competitive outfit and it will happen.
"I'd like for it to happen a little bit quicker. There were plenty of good signs and with that we've got to turn it into points and start winning."
Australian Associated Press
