The Warriors' bitterness over a landslide penalty count against them was offset by the sweetness of a late, match-winning try in their 20-16 National Rugby League win over Manly at Brookvale Oval on Saturday night.

Warriors captain Monty Betham and experienced halfback Stacey Jones fought a losing battle against referee Steve Lyons over the interpretation of the rugby league laws throughout the match.

But the visiting team had the final say in the outcome, securing the points with a try to Clinton Toopi three minutes from fulltime.

Betham later admitted that he was having troubles with Lyons.

"I was just trying to work out the interpretations," Betham said.

"It's the way it goes."

Warriors coach Daniel Anderson also struggled with Lyons' decisions.

Asked why his team struggled for territory, he replied: "A 13-5 penalty count."

"It's just consistency I want. I don't begrudge Steve Lyons for giving penalties as long as he is consistent."

On the other hand, Sea Eagles coach Peter Sharp described Lyons' referee performance as part of the game.

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