The Illawarra celebrated its six Australian Test fullbacks at WIN Stadium as part of the heritage round yesterday, but injured Manly star Brett Stewart was a noticeable omission from the players' parade.
Keith Barnes, Garry Jack, Ted Goodwin, Graeme Langlands, John Dorahy and Stewart were all introduced to the bumper crowd of 16,792 before the clash between Manly and St George Illawarra.
However, Manly officials later stated Stewart was required in the Sea Eagles dressing sheds prior to kick-off as the reason why the Wests Red Devils junior was not involved with the presentation.
Stewart, who is likely to return in round 24 after playing just two games this year, is facing sexual assault charges following an incident after the Manly season launch, and was given a mixed reception when his name was read out.
He then watched on from the sidelines as the Sea Eagles were beaten 48-18 by a rampant St George Illawarra.
Stewart has played five games for Australia and starred in Manly's premiership triumph last season, but missed last year's World Cup because of a shoulder injury.
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