 In round three, both teams had won their opening two matches leading into an early-season top-of-the-table match which Manly won 25–18.Although Manly's time at the top of the ladder was short-lived, it proved that Manly could compete with the best sides in the competition.The Sea Eagles suffered a late-season form slump with injuries plaguing the club, however wins over the Broncos in round 22 and the Raiders in the final round ensured their first finals appearance since 1998.