After leading 24-12 at the break, the Dragons turned it on in the second half to finish with eight tries, including doubles to wingers Wendell Sailor and Brett Morris.

But Sailor declared it was the players who came in to replace the likes of Justin Poore, Ben Creagh and Michael Weyman, who should take the credit.

"Trent Merrin, Jon Green, the blokes who aren't experienced, that's who I'm impressed with," he said.

"No-one sits back and waits for Sowie (Jamie Soward) to get us home and no one waits for Matt Cooper to do all his magic stuff. As (coach) Wayne (Bennett) says, if you come into this side, you've got to do a job."

It took just two minutes for the Dragons to strike the first blow when Lett dived over in the corner and they had established a 14-0 lead after 17 minutes, including a stunning 100m try to Morris.

But missing Origin stars David Williams, Josh Perry and injured fullback Brett Stewart, tries to bullocking Manly forwards George Rose and Vic Mauro kept the Sea Eagles in touch at the break.

Manly fullback Michael Robertson again provided hope when he scored from a Ben Farrar break 18 minutes into the second half, but three Dragons tries in the final 13 minutes ended the argument.

Manly coach Des Hasler said all was not lost, despite dropping out of the eight on for-and-against as a result of the 30-point hiding.

"Obviously (the Dragons are) deserved competition leaders.

"But both sides, with so many players out, I'm sure it will be a different contest next time," Hasler said.