Adam Bailey
DeanoHarmoLeave it to Beaver!
October 3rd 2008 12:01
Category: No Category
The Beaver: The Heart and Soul of Manly
Menzies' rookie year was in 1994 where he developed a lethal partnership with Cliff Lyons, scoring 16 tries, winning rookie of the year, Dally M second rower of the year and obtaining national selection. In a Sea Eagles golden era, it didn't seem fair for the club to also produce such a talented local junior.
The Beaver went on to play 20 games for New South Wales and represent Australia on 15 occasions. Some say he should of played more and also think the try scoring machine would still warrant selection if he hadn't retired from representative football in 2006.
In this day and age it is hard to find loyal players that will take the good times with the bad. Throughout Menzies' career he has played in some sensational teams and some very poor ones. From playing with the likes of Cliff Lyons and Geoff Toovey to battling through the Northern Eagles merge and the Super League war.
Through these tough times, Beaver never strayed from the Northern Beaches and of course, never stopped scoring try's. He has crossed the line 179 times, making him the second highest try scorer ever, and the leading try scoring forward. For this reason Beaver was thrown big money deals early in his career from rival clubs but his loyalty to Manly has been rewarded with a grand stand being named after him at Brookvale Oval, the home of the Sea Eagles.
What is most prestigious about the Beaver is the way he plays the game. His unique running style, ability to sniff out a try and his textbook defence is second to none in the competition. His ability to make an impact off the bench is another string to his bow and could be the difference in this Sunday's decider. Not only will he be missed by Manly next year when he moves to England to play for the Bradford Bulls, he will also be missed by the game itself.
This Sunday, Beaver will equal Terry Lamb's record of 349 first grade games in the NRL. The fine utility could find himself playing in a number of different positions, but everyone knows, wherever he is, he will be doing everything for his beloved Manly. With the trademark cheer from Brooky 'Beaver, Beaver, Beaver' being belted out by the crowd at Telstra Stadium, I am sure it is safe to say...
Leave it to Beaver!
Adam Bailey
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