By MARK CASHMAN

In a season of continuing achievements Gordon recorded their first win over Manly home or away in 12 years when they toughed it out to beat the Marlins 26-3 on Saturday.

Unlike the big win over Warringah the week before at Chatswood Oval, Gordon really had to fight for every inch of grass at the Village Green and came away thankful that they were able to negotiate what is always a big ask.

The Marlins scrum and lineout got the better of the visitors at different times throughout the match and afterwards Highlanders coach Darren Coleman unusually said that this was their best performance of the season so far.

“It was our least clinical performance in terms of execution to date but the fact that the boys stayed composed and in the fight in the face of the frustration of our errors and a physical Manly team that played with plenty of passion and a tight score line,” Coleman said.

“I was very pleased that the players found a way to win without a dominant scrum and a faltering line out and our on field leaders deserve a big wrap for their composure.

“Full credit to Manly. Once they cut a few extra errors out of their game they’ll challenge most teams and push the playoffs in the run home.”

Coleman also had a shot at his younger brother Scott who he coaches against in the 7TWO match of the round next Saturday in Newcastle.

“The challenge is to now get our execution quality back up this week as the clown up north will have his circus ready to rumble,” Coleman said.

Manly coach Matt McGoldrick said his side was very much in the battle but were hurt by little errors.

“We had a bad five minutes just after we started to get some momentum in the game,” McGoldrick said.

“We were pressing hard before half time and for a long period after half time, made three or four errors and Gordon scored twice.

“But that’s what good teams do. Gordon are a really good side. They can beat you a bunch of ways and will certainly take some beating.

“I was happy enough with out application but ultimately not good enough against the best teams.”

McGoldrick said he was happy with the performance of high profile recruit Harley Attwater.

“He played okay but as you would imagine it was always going to be tough on a weeks prep. He will be better moving forward,” he added.

GORDON 26 (Mahe Vailanu, Harrison Goddard, Brandon Quinn 2 tries; Rodney Iona 3 conversions) d MANLY 3 (Harley Attwater pen goal)

IMAGE: ADAM MCDONALD / MANLY MARLINS