Thirty years on (or however long it’s been), Manly Warringah Sea Eagles supporters are still reliving what’s widely hailed as the greatest win in NRL history – the 1996 Grand Final demolition of St George Dragons, winning 20-8 in front of 88,336 fans at the Sydney Football Stadium.
THE DAY THAT SHOCKED RUGBY LEAGUE
Nobody gave Manly a chance against the star-studded Dragons, who’d dominated the regular season and were chasing back-to-back titles. But the Sea Eagles, led by captain Geoff Toovey and coach Bob Fulton, produced a masterclass in grit, skill and tactical brilliance.
– Cliff Lyons won the Clive Churchill Medal with a performance that’s still shown in coaching clinics today
– Steve Menzies announced himself as a future legend with a try that showcased his incredible athleticism
– The Sea Eagles defence held St George scoreless in the second half, despite facing wave after wave of attack
WHY IT’S STILL CELEBRATED TODAY
This wasn’t just a grand final win – it was a statement that Manly’s never-say-die spirit could overcome any odds:
– Fans still gather at 4 Pines Park and local clubs each year to rewatch the match on the big screen
– The team’s jersey from that day is one of the most sought-after collectibles among Sea Eagles supporters
– Young fans learn about the game as part of the club’s heritage program, ensuring the legend lives on
– “That 1996 win defined what it means to be a Sea Eagle,” says lifelong fan Karen Miller. “We still sing the songs and tell the stories to anyone who’ll listen!”
THE LEGACY LIVES ON
The 1996 victory set the standard for Manly’s future success, including premierships in 2008 and 2011. Many of the players from that epic win now work in the club’s youth development program, passing on the lessons they learned that day to the next generation.
Were you there at the SFS to witness this historic win? Share your memories in the comments below – we’d love to
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