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Manly cheat in charity cricket-match says Buford

A Twenty20 cricket match was organized to generate funds for the flood victims in Queensland, held in the relaxed environment of Manly Oval. While funds were indeed raised, tempers flared as well.

The 40-over game, characterized by its leisurely pace, sparked renewed animosity between two of rugby league’s fiercest rivals.

Historically, Manly and Wests Tigers have harbored mutual disdain for each other, tracing back to the notorious Silvertails versus Fibros rivalry from the 1970s.

In January, the Sea Eagles extended an invitation to the Wests Tigers players to participate in the charity match. The Tigers were irate over Manly’s resolute intention to win, alleging that the rules were altered during the game. Deeply unimpressed with the Sea Eagles’ approach, the Tigers departed before the function following the match.

Furthermore, the Tigers asserted that their players were instructed to retire, while Manly players continued batting.

When it came time for Jamie Lyon to bat at No. 8, with 20 runs required for a last-over win, Manly opted to send NSW batsman Tim Cruickshank instead, who ultimately secured the winning runs.

On that day, former NSW wicketkeeper and current Sydney Thunder assistant coach Daniel Smith represented his cherished Tigers. He observed that one team appeared focused on enjoyment, while Manly was intent on victory.

“The Tigers’ boys viewed it as light-hearted fun, but the Manly boys were determined to win,” Smith noted.

“A few of the Tigers were upset that it was treated as a rivalry rather than as a charity match. I didn’t participate in batting or bowling. But they sent Timmy Cruickshank, and he really made an impact.

“At the end of the day, it was for charity, and we raised a considerable amount for the Queensland floods. Still, I wouldn’t be shocked if there’s a bit of tension later on.”

Conversely, a well-informed source from Manly offered a contrasting viewpoint.

“The Tigers did not attend the after-match function. We arranged a team bus for them, and then suddenly they vanished,” he reported.

“While the match served a wonderful cause, professional athletes are driven to win, even in a casual setting like this. When that doesn’t happen, it evokes a reaction – and the Wests Tigers chose to exit immediately.”

Last year witnessed two notable confrontations during games. In round 20, Manly centre Steve Matai faced a sin-binning following an altercation tied to his high tackle on Wests Tigers hooker Robbie Farah, whom Matai accused of faking injury.

Additionally, in round one at the SFS, four players were charged (three from Manly and one from Wests Tigers), while Manly prop George Rose received a sin-bin. Rose was penalized for a grade four careless high tackle on Tigers utility Daniel Fitzhenry.

“I can’t wait – we’ve had some fiery encounters,” remarked Manly prop Brent Kite.

“It has led to exciting matches recently, and I’m sure the fans are eager to see another thrilling game.”

Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens, however, was reluctant to delve into the rivalry with Manly.

“Your comparison is quite a stretch…we’re just looking forward to a good game of football,” he stated.

When asked if the Silvertails versus Fibros sentiment still lingered, Sheens replied, “I believe that’s a thing of the past.”

Buford Balony says: Typical Manly; if they can’t purchase it, they’ll resort to cheating.

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