Can Manly win without Tom Trbojevic? We’re about to find out.

I was tasked with doing the NSW player ratings on Wednesday night and came within a whisker of giving Tommy Turbo a perfect 10 (slight markdown for missing a tackle that led to a try just before half-time).

Des Hasler has wisely decided to rest Trbovejic given his history of hamstring dramas, although brother Jake will back up for the Blues. Another Trbojevic, Ben, will be in the side, while Daly Cherry-Evans will also back up.

Maroons winger Kyle Feldt won’t back up, with Justin O’Neill to replace him on the wing. Valentine Holmes is backing up at fullback.

Kurt De Luis wil debut for Manly, while Tom Deardon will play his first game for the Cowboys.

Good evening and thanks for joining tonight’s footy blog!

Yes, it’s that time of year where the NRL takes a bit of a back seat during the State of Origin period. But I’ve always loved this time of year; the footy is less predictable as the top teams attempt to maintain their ascendancy while some of their representative stars are sidelined.

First up tonight, we’ve got Manly up against North Queensland.

This is a big occasion for the Sea Eagles, who will pay tribute to the late, great Bob Fulton. The Immortal’s wife, Ann, children Brett, Scott and Kristie, and all the grandkids will be special guests at the newly renamed 4 Pines Park (that’s a product I’m prepared to plug).

All attendees will be asked to stand and applaud at the 175th second mark of the match in memory of Sea Eagle No.175.

I covered Fulton’s State Funeral last week. A fitting farewell for one of the greats of the sport.

In the late game, Penrith will try to avoid losing consecutive games against Cronulla.

I’ll have all of the team changes and pre-game goss for you shortly.