Manly coach Trent Barrett is hoping for a “fair crack” at Penrith in Saturday’s crunch NRL match.
The Sea Eagles must beat the Panthers in their final-round clash to clinch a spot in the NRL finals series and avoid an early holiday for the second-straight season.
Barrett on Friday called for the match officials to referee both sides equally after the Sea Eagles were caned 14-4 in an eight-point loss to the Panthers in early July.
“It was two tries apiece, we lost on goals and didn’t really have a chance to win that game,” Barrett said prior to his team’s captain’s run.
“I’m hoping we do get a fair crack tomorrow.
“I did go and see (referees boss Tony Archer) after that game and we sorted a few things out.
“Those two points would’ve been handy now, but they’re gone.
“It just makes it all the more important we win tomorrow.”
The second-year coach is banking on what is expected to be a near-capacity crowd at Lottoland, together with the farewell of three club legends, to help ensure an even contest.
The Sea Eagles have planned tributes for Brett Stewart, Steve Matai and Matt Ballin, however, Matai told the club he was unable to be at the ground.
“It certainly adds to the occasion of the game. But if you need any extra motivation to get up for this one you shouldn’t be wearing the jumper,” Barrett said.
“I just don’t want a 14-4 penalty count again. Just an even contest would be nice, and both sides refereed consistently. That’s all any coach asks for.”
The Sea Eagles will be buoyed by the anticipated return of second-rower Curtis Sironen, who hasn’t played since tearing his pectoral in June.
Barrett expects Sironen to play the entire 80 minutes.
“He’s having a terrific year prior to the injury that he had. It’s certainly good to get some quality players back at this time of the year,” he said.
“He’s worked really hard to get back in the ten weeks.
“His talk’s really important for us on that right edge and all the boys are pretty happy to have him back.”