2007 Manly Warringah Sea Eagles season

In June English club Warrington Wolves signed 30-year-old Manly winger Chris Hicks on a two-year deal from the following season.[1] Manly only lost six matches in the 2007 season. Their 50-16 mauling of Newcastle ensured they would finish in the top two. Throughout the season they were the only club chasing Melbourne (whom they beat in round 11) for the minor premiership. After defeating North Queensland at the Sydney Football Stadium 28–6, Manly played in their 15th grand final against Melbourne. Manly were beaten 34–8 by the Storm on 30 September at Telstra Stadium. Melbourne was later stripped of the 2007 title for salary cap breaches. Manly were not recognised as the 2007 premiers (the premierships for 2007 and 2009 being declared null and void). On Sunday 30th Sept 2007, Manly lost the grand final to Melbourne Storm. This title has since been stripped from the Storm; this had led to calls for Manly to be given the 2007 title, however the NRL have refused. The Sea Eagles however did win the 2008 premiership, and, given that the Storm also lost its 2009 title, Manly have argued they should be the defending premiers in 2010, but again the NRL have refused to acknowledge this.