Steve Kearney Sets Impressive
Record

Kiwis veteran Stephen Kearney will set a new appearance record for a New Zealander in the National Rugby League (NRL) when he leads the Melbourne Storm against Penrith on Saturday night.

The second rower, capped 43 times for the Kiwis, will eclipse an 18-year-old record held by former Cronulla and Eastern Suburbs stalwart Dane Sorenson who played 227 matches ? 216 for the Sharks.

"Growing up as a young fella Dane was a hero and idol of mine so it's a huge honour," Kearney said.

"It's something you don't really set out to achieve when you start playing but I'm quite humbled to have reached this milestone ? it's a nice record to have."

The 31-year-old former Auckland Warrior made his first grade debut for Western Suburbs in 1992.