The fifth round of the 2026 NRL season had plenty of highlights and lowlights, headlined by the Sea Eagles resurgent performance under Kieran Foran.
Sea Eagles bounce back emphatically against Dolphins
The Manly Sea Eagles have produced their strongest performance of the season, responding to a turbulent week by dismantling the Dolphins in a commanding victory away from home.
Just days after Anthony Seibold’s departure, interim coach Kieran Foran oversaw a confident and ruthless display, with Manly dominating possession and punishing the Dolphins’ defensive lapses. Tom Trbojevic was central to the performance, consistently breaking the line and creating opportunities as the Sea Eagles ran riot in attack.
Despite periods of resistance from the Dolphins, Manly’s composure and execution proved far too strong, turning the contest into a statement win that steadied the club after days of uncertainty.
“It was a whirlwind week, it was crazy, but that was an awesome effort,” Foran said.
“The boys were outstanding.”
Tigers continue resurgence with gritty win over Eels
The Wests Tigers continued their encouraging early‑season form, edging out the Parramatta Eels in a dramatic golden‑point clash that was filled with tension and controversy.
In a match that swung repeatedly, the Tigers showed resilience to absorb Parramatta pressure and stay composed in the game’s decisive moments. Captain Api Koroisau’s leadership proved vital, while young winger Luke Laulilii played a key role despite being sin‑binned following a contentious aerial tackle.
Parramatta had chances to ice the contest but were unable to convert territory into points, leaving them frustrated at full‑time after another narrow loss.
“I didn’t agree,” Tigers coach Benji Marshall said of the sin‑bin decision.
“If he didn’t get injured, would it have been the same result?”
Panthers dismantle Storm to underline premiership credentials
The Penrith Panthers have reaffirmed their position as the NRL’s benchmark side, delivering a ruthless performance to overwhelm the Melbourne Storm in one of the most dominant wins of the season.
After a fast start, Penrith piled on points from all areas of the field, with Nathan Cleary controlling the match and the Panthers’ edge attack carving Melbourne apart. Winger Thomas Jenkins continued his remarkable try‑scoring run as the Panthers ran in nine tries and barely allowed the Storm any momentum.
Melbourne struggled to contain Penrith’s speed and power, conceding 50 points for the first time in more than two decades.
“You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to be a good defender,” Storm coach Craig Bellamy said.
“You just need to work hard and be determined.”