NRL 2021: Sublime Joseph Manu stars as Sydney Roosters thrash Canberra Raiders

Joseph Manu celebrates scoring against Canberra Raiders. Credit: Image - Getty; Video - Sky Sport

A stunning individual showing from Kiwis centre Joseph Manu stole the show for Sydney Roosters, leading the way to a 44-16 victory over Canberra Raiders in the NRL on Saturday.

Manu, 24, moved from centre to five-eighth for the round 12 clash in Gosford and looked every bit the part as the Roosters ran away winners eight tries to three.

Even out of position, Manu managed to score two tries and set up another. He's also credited with a line break assist and 108 running metres.

"With a lot of injuries this year, I've learnt to adapt during games. Once I get that full-week prep I feel like I'm a lot better," Manu said of his switch.

"I just like playing footy, I'm a footy player."

Roosters coach Trent Robinson didn't hold back in his appraisal of Manu's performance either, admitting he sometimes struggles to believe what he's seeing from the Kiwis star.

"You never stop [being] amazed by different things he'll do or come up with," Robinson said post-match.

"He just has those moments. He has them at training, he has them at games. 

"It was great to get him closer to the ball tonight and allow him to come up with different plays that really advanced our game."

Manu's good form will give Robinson a selection headache, with star halfback Sam Walker to return to the side for the Roosters' next game, against the Titans in round 14.

The Roosters' win sees them sit fifth on the NRL ladder, two points behind Sydney rivals the Rabbitohs, heading into their bye week.

 

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