The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have locked in their squad for a crucial Round 4 clash against the Parramatta Eels, set to take place this Sunday, March 30, at their fortress 4 Pines Park in Brookvale. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:05 PM AEDT, and anticipation is already building among Sea Eagles fans with a few exciting changes to the line-up.
Match Preview: Sea Eagles (3rd) vs Eels (17th)
This Round 4 encounter sees the Sea Eagles flying high after a confident win over the Canberra Raiders in Round 3. Currently sitting 3rd on the ladder, Coach Anthony Seibold‘s side will look to continue their strong form against a struggling Eels squad that’s still hunting for their first win of the season.
The Eels, who are languishing in 17th place, will be desperate to turn their fortunes around—but with Manly regaining some key firepower, that task just got a lot tougher.
Key Team Changes: Turbo is Back!
The biggest headline from this week’s team list? Tom Trbojevic is back.
After missing last week’s match, the superstar fullback returns to reclaim the No. 1 jersey. His presence is set to be a game-changer, not just for the Sea Eagles’ attacking structure but also their defensive shape. Lehi Hopoate, who stepped up impressively at fullback last weekend, moves to the wing, bumping Clayton Faulalo to the reserves.
Another key change sees Josh Aloiai promoted to the starting prop role in place of the injured Taniela Paseka, who is sidelined with an Achilles injury. Nathan Brown joins the interchange bench to add grit and versatility to the forward rotation.
Starting XIII – Round 4 vs Eels
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Tom Trbojevic – Back in the No. 1 jersey, Turbo’s return could spark Manly’s backline to new heights.
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Jason Saab – The speedster continues to impress with his finishing and work rate.
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Tolu Koula – Lightning quick and dangerous in open space, Koula remains a core attacking threat.
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Reuben Garrick – A consistent performer with a reliable boot; vital on both attack and defense.
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Lehi Hopoate – Slides to the wing, bringing youthful energy and confidence after a solid fill-in performance.
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Luke Brooks – Continues to gel nicely with DCE; his attacking kicks and running game improving each week.
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Daly Cherry-Evans (C) – The captain leads from the front and continues to deliver clutch moments when it matters most.
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Josh Aloiai – Into the starting side, expected to provide hard-hitting go-forward.
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Jazz Tevaga – Offers grit and toughness in the middle, with crafty dummy-half plays.
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Siua Taukei’aho – The Tongan international brings muscle and experience to the forward pack.
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Haumole Olakau’atu – One of the NRL’s most dangerous backrowers, capable of breaking the line with ease.
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Ben Trbojevic – Developing nicely alongside his brothers; dependable on both ends.
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Jake Trbojevic – The heart and soul of the team, Jake’s work rate is second to none.
Interchange Bench
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Jake Simpkin – A smart utility option off the bench, can cover hooker or lock.
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Corey Waddell – Brings versatility and experience; strong defensive presence.
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Ethan Bullemor – Adds energy and aggression to the forward rotation.
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Nathan Brown – Newly added this week, brings veteran toughness and can make an impact immediately.
Reserves
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Clayton Faulalo
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Jakob Arthur
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Toafofoa Sipley
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Ray Tuaimalo Vaega
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Dean Matterson
What to Expect
With Tom Trbojevic back and a balanced squad full of momentum, the Sea Eagles will be favorites heading into this Round 4 matchup. However, as always in the NRL, anything can happen—and the Eels are due for a big performance.
Expect the Sea Eagles to lean on their strong spine combination of Turbo, Brooks, DCE, and Jake Trbojevic, while looking for big impact from Olakau’atu and Taukei’aho in the middle.
Match Info
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Fixture: Sea Eagles vs Eels
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Round: 4
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Date: Sunday, March 30
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Kick-off: 12:05 PM AEDT
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Venue: 4 Pines Park, Brookvale
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Broadcast: WatchNRL
