The 2025 NRL Round 3 continues to showcase thrilling matchups, with a clash between the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles and the Canberra Raiders set to unfold at 4 Pines Park on March 23, 2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:15 PM, and this game promises to offer plenty of drama.
The Sea Eagles enter this critical encounter as the bookmakers' favorites, aiming to rebound after a tough loss against the New Zealand Warriors. Manly's attack is led by the dynamic Tom Trbojevic, who has consistently posed a threat on the field.
Meanwhile, the Canberra Raiders are riding high on a wave of strong form, making them a formidable opponent. Star performances from players like Seb Kris and Matty Nicholson have added depth to the Raiders’ game plan, and the return of rising talent Xavier Savage could provide the additional spark needed for an upset.
In preparations for this match, the Sea Eagles have made some notable changes in their lineup. Lehi Hopoate transitions from the wing to fullback, with Clayton Faulalo taking his place on the wing. The full list of Manly’s team includes:
1. Tom Trbojevic
2. Jason Saab
3. Tolutau Koula
4. Reuben Garrick
5. Lehi Hopoate
6. Luke Brooks
7. Daly Cherry-Evans
8. Taniela Paseka
9. Jazz Tevaga
10. Siosiua Taukeiaho
11. Haumole Olakau'atu
12. Ben Trbojevic
13. Jake Trbojevic
14. Jake Simpkin
15. Corey Waddell
16. Ethan Bullemor
17. Josh Aloiai
18. Tommy Talau
19. Clayton Faulalo
20. Jakob Arthur
21. Nathan Brown
22. Raymond Tuiamalo Vaega.
On the other side, the Raiders have also confirmed significant lineup choices, with Trey Mooney starting and Morgan Smithies moving to the bench. Canberra's full roster includes:
1. Kaeo Weekes
2. Savelio Tamale
3. Matthew Timoko
4. Sebastian Kris
5. Xavier Savage
6. Ethan Strange
7. Jamal Fogarty
8. Josh Papali'i
9. Tom Starling
10. Corey Horsburgh
11. Hudson Young
12. Matt Nicholson
13. Morgan Smithies
14. Owen Pattie
15. Simi Sasagi
16. Trey Mooney
17. Ata Mariota
18. Danny Levi
19. Albert Hopoate
20. Pasami Saulo
21. Jed Stuart
22. Ethan Sanders.
As the teams approach this vital matchup, the excitement is palpable. According to reports, "Manly aims to rebound after a tough loss to the Warriors, while Canberra’s strong form puts them in a position to spring an upset.”
Fans are eagerly anticipating how this game will unfold, especially considering the historical rivalry between these two teams. While Manly has enjoyed success against Canberra in past matchups, the Raiders are bringing heightened intensity and fitness to the field, which could shift the balance. As the Gallagher Stadium is set to be filled with excited spectators, the implications of this match aren’t just confined to the current season. It influences both teams' morale and trajectory moving forward.
This NRL Round 3 game is not just a moment of entertainment— it’s a critical juncture for both clubs, laden with significance that extends beyond the scoreboard. The Sea Eagles and Raiders will both be looking to etch a defining narrative for the 2025 season during their encounter. Fans and analysts alike are ready for an electric showdown where every player counts and every moment could change the tide of the match.
