Round 16: Sydney v Melbourne preview
The Sydney Roosters and Melbourne Storm both travel up to Newcastle to meet at McDonald Jones Stadium, as recent COVID-19 restrictions start to hit Sydney NRL teams.
Any situation where Rugby League isn't being played at the not fit for purpose SCG is a good thing, and the fact that a crowd will be allowed is also a plus, as Greater Sydney endures their lockdown.
Easts come into this clash on the back of a 38-12 loss to Penrith, where the Panthers were too good in the end, albeit with a helping hand from the officials.
The Storm were absolutely breathtaking in a brutal 66-16 take down of the Wests Tigers, after leading 40-nil at half time. This writer had Melbourne to win by 51+ to win a substantial sum of money, and should have cashed out at 60-nil, sigh. (please, gamble responsibly).
In team news, Easts welcome back Sam Walker after 2 weeks out, forcing Joseph Suaalii out of the side. Lachlan Lam moves to Five-Eighth, and Joey Manu returns to the side in the centres. Sitili Tupouniua returns from injury, sending Fletcher Baker to the bench.
This side still short-handed with injuries, however some recent stability to their lineups, plus the return of Sam Walker will be welcomed.
For the Storm, they welcome back both Kenny and Jesse Bromwich who both take their places in the starting lineup. Tui Kamikamica drops to the bench, and Nelson Asofa-Solomona is suspended. Aaron Booth comes in on the bench, to replace Harry Grant. Tom Eisenhuth is out with an elbow injury.
Last time they met, in Round 6 at Melbourne's AAMI Park, the Stom ran out 20-4 victors in a match that was in the balance for the best part of 60 minutes. Melbourne have won four out of the last five clashes between these two sides.
Last meeting: Round 6 2021 - Storm 20 Roosters 4
Who to watch: For the Roosters, it's definitely the return of the very impressive Sam Walker. Will this be the start of a bit of relative stability for the Roosters?
For the Storm, it's Brandon Smith. The Cheese is in absolute top form and another huge performance from the number 9 will put the Storm well on the road to Victory.
The favourite: At the time of writing, the Storm are comfortable favourites with the bookies.
My tip: If the Roosters can keep this close early, and keep the scores low (is this possible in Rugby League in 2021?) , then they have a chance. I do think the Storm will be too strong in the end, however. Melbourne by 14.
