NRL: Defence key as Manly upset Storm

Daly Cherry-Evans was a standout performer in Manly's win over Melbourne. Photo / Getty Images

Last-placed Manly have upset ladder-leading Melbourne in their Anzac day clash at AAMI Park with a hard-fought 12-10 victory.

The Sea Eagles hit the front in the 71st minute after man of the match, halfback Daly Cherry-Evans, threw a long cut-out pass for winger David Williams to dive across in the corner.

It proved to be the winning play as, despite the best efforts of Melbourne centre Kurt Mann, who came within centimetres of scoring with two minutes to play, the Storm were unable to find the points to pick up their fourth consecutive win.

The Sea Eagles deserved the victory with their defensive effort first rate.

Manly went into the game on the back of five losses with their only win for the season a round-two victory over Melbourne.

That time, the margin was also two points.

Played in difficult conditions with rain falling for much of the game, both teams delivered an entertaining match.

The home side led 10-2 at halftime with tries to in-form winger Marika Koroibete and Cooper Cronk.

Halfback Cronk was only cleared to play following their final training session after spending the week in bed with flu.

He and Cherry-Evans waged a battle all game, with both standouts among their sides.

Koroibete also had a busy night, repeatedly testing the Sea Eagles' defensive line.

He left the field temporarily with 15 minutes remaining for a concussion test after he made a break and was brought down in a three-man tackle, with fullback Brett Stewart put on report for his contribution.

Sea Eagles centre Steve Matai was also put on report in the first half for an alleged high tackle on his Storm opposite Will Chambers.

Manly's other try was scored by lock Tom Symonds after the Storm were repeatedly penalised for slowing down the play the ball.

That closed the gap to 10-8 before Williams nudged his side ahead.

- AAP