Knights v Storm preview

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Contrasting ambitions meet in Sunday afternoon showdown.

Going down to the Raiders in heartbreaking circumstances a fortnight ago, the last-placed Knights will be hoping the return of veteran playmaker Jarrod Mullen proves the difference against the high-flying Storm. Playing his first game since suffering a hamstring tear on ANZAC Day, Mullen headlines a series of changes undertaken by coach Nathan Brown including the additions of Mickey Paea, Pat Mata'utia and Pauli Pauli on an extended bench. With Tyler Randell set to miss the next 4-6 weeks, look for hooker Chris Adams to be drafted into the final squad to relieve the pressure on Danny Levi. Sitting three points behind the 15th placed Sydney Roosters, the Knights will be looking to finish 2016 off strongly in order to avoid consecutive wooden spoons.

Casting aside reservations about their ability to vie for the premiership against Brisbane, the Storm head to Newcastle on Sunday afternoon with high hopes of recording yet another high score. With Jordan McLean out for the next six weeks with an ankle sprain, Felise Kaufusi will start in the front row, allowing former Newcastle prop Matthew White to make his club debut for the Storm after toiling away in the Queensland Cup. Young Tounamaipea retains the fullback role after a series of strong showings in recent weeks, however Cameron Munster may come into the squad as a late inclusion. Since taking over as Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy has achieved considerable success against the Knights, however he will have his side prepared for an upset having gone down in three of the past five clashes.

Last meeting: Round 5 2016 - Storm 18 Knights 14

Who to watch: He may not have been named by coach Nathan Brown, but expect former Knight Chris Adams to make his return to first grade on Sunday afternoon. Unable to cement a first grade position under Wayne Bennett, Adams will get the opportunity to prove his credentials against Melbourne in what will be his first appearance in the NRL since Round 14, 2012. Having starred for Lakes United in the local Newcastle Rugby League, the 29-year-old hooker will be looking to bring his winning record to the struggling Knights, with his willing defence and speed out of dummy half likely to cause headaches for the Storm.

While his former teammates at Parramatta have endured a season of turmoil, mid-season recruit Ryan Morgan has relished the opportunity to play under Craig Bellamy. Having established himself as a hard working outside back, the 26-year-old centre has thrived at Melbourne with his combination alongside Suliasi Vunivalu causing opposing defences endless headaches. Coming up against the most fragile defence in the NRL, Morgan will be out to capitalise on Sunday and cement a place in the top squad heading towards September.

The favourite: Unsurprisingly Craig Bellamy's second-placed Melbourne side are favoured to account for the last-placed Knights.

My tip: The margin of Sunday's fixture may depend on whether Melbourne opt to rest key players, but regardless the Storm should leave Newcastle with two competition points. Storm by 18.

18. Pat Mata'utia 2. Nathan Ross 3. Brendan Elliott 4. Peter Mata'utia 5. Jake Mamo 6. Jarrod Mullen 7. Trent Hodkinson 8. Robbie Rochow 9. Danny Levi 10. Korbin Sims 11. Sione Mata'utia 12. Mitchell Barnett 13. Jeremy Smith
Interchange: 14. Josh King 15. Sam Mataora 16. Daniel Saifiti 21. Chris Adams

18. Cameron Munster 2. Suliasi Vunivalu 3. Cheyse Blair 24. Will Chambers 5. Marika Koroibete 6. Blake Green 7. Cooper Cronk 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Cameron Smith 16. Matt White 11. Kevin Proctor 12. Tohu Harris 13. Dale Finucane
Interchange: 14. Kenneath Bromwich 15. Christian Welch 10. Felise Kaufusi 1. Young Tonumaipea

Referees: Henry Perenara, Gavin Reynolds; Sideline Officials: Russell Turner, Ricky MacFarlane; Video Referees: Luke Patten, Bryan Norrie, Jason Robinson