The rivalry though well and truly exploded when they faced off in the 1976 finals series.
The Eels took out the major semi-final against the Sea Eagles, 23-17 after Graeme Atkins scored the match-winner off a John Peard bomb.
As history would have it though, Manly secured the premiership trophy in a 13-10 win in a grand final made famous by both Parramatta’s famous flying wedge and winger Neville Glover grassing two passes with the try-line begging.
The Eels would have to wait a further five years to taste Premiership glory.
1978 and Parramatta saw the beginnings of the Peter Sterling era. The finals series that year once again saw the Eels face off against Manly in another controversial clash.
With their minor semi-final clash ending in a 13-all draw, they met in a replay with the Sea Eagles securing a 17-11 win following a seventh tackle try to secure the match.
It was later revealed that in the same match, the Eels were given three sets of five tackles with Manly given seven tackles on three occasions.
Another replay was argued for by Parramatta to no avail and Manly progressed to the 1978 Premiership.
Interesting Fact:
These teams made history in the 36–34 win to Manly, at Brookvale, on 18 May 2003, which was the first ever golden point match. Manly 5/8, Ben Walker, kicking the winning penalty goal.
Head to Head (132 played):
Won- 86 Manly, 46 Eels
Drawn- 4
At Parramatta (64):
Won- 33 Manly, 28, Eels
Drawn- 3
Parramatta have won five or their past seven meetings against Manly at Parramatta.