Early in the 1985 season, Manly were challenging for a top two position, but a lack of momentum in the last half of the season saw the club unable to build on this position. At the completion of the regular season, the Sea Eagles still needed to win a mid-week final against Penrith to attempt to claim fifth position, but the boot of Greg Alexander carried the Penrith Panthers to a 10–7 victory and into their first finals campaign. Bob Fulton installed Queensland and Australian representative back rower Paul Vautin as the club captain in 1985. Prior to the season, Manly signed pacey 19-year-old Sarina (Queensland) outside back Dale Shearer.