Round 15: Storm v Sharks preview
Storm desperate for redemption as Hynes presses rep claims
The Melbourne Storm will desperate to atone a 25 point thrashing when they return home to take on the Cronulla Sharks in the lone Sunday match at AAMI Park. Melbourne have had a roller-coaster style season and last week was definitely the descent into chaos. A side known for defensive prowess conceded 45 points to a Cowboys side who conceded 90 points in the last fortnight. They were torn apart on their edges, especially their right which became a heavy target after Justin Olam's failed HIA and Grant Anderson's fill in stint at centre.
However, they lacked significant umph in their forward battle which allowed the Cowboys to secure the KO victory. Against a Cronulla pack who are in a similar position, they'll need to lift to new heights to secure victory. Cam Munster had a poor game by his standards and will be looking for a big one to lead into QLD Origin camp. Elsewhere, expect a big showing from Harry Grant who's been quieter in recent matches as well as fullback Nick Meaney who's firming for that 1 jersey for the year, as we are still awaiting ANY update from Storm HQ in regard to Ryan Papenhuyzen. With wins in this period at a premium, expect the Storm to come out all guns blazing before they have to play without their Origin stars.
With Justin Olam being declared to have suffered a category 1 concussion, he is automatically ruled out of this contest. Grant Anderson again takes his place as he did in the second half last Sunday. Tariq Sims is the new face on the bench.
For Cronulla, it's the tale of what might've been in all of their losses this season. They dominated possession and attacking opportunities, but were unable to dominate a Brisbane side that has been on the up. Completions and defensive miscues were at the heart of their problems on Saturday and coming into what's been a horror venue in recent seasons, it presents a big problem for the Sharks.
The Storm have won five of their past six games against the Sharks, while the Sharks have not won at AAMI Park since 2018. So there up against history that's for sure. However, I look at Nicho Hynes and think he's in for another blinder. With the chance to snap up the NSW 7 jumper, that's a scenario that will see everyone expecting nothing but the best from the Dally M Medallist. Also, Will Kennedy has delivered with a strong year at the back and could help dominate on the edges by creating the extra man on the sweep plays.
Cameron McInnes is named to return from a hand injury in the only likely change for Cronulla. This sends Tom Hazelton back to the reserves.
Last meeting: Round 17 2022 - Sharks 28 Storm 6
Who to watch: Melbourne are a strong side when Harry Grant is running out of hooker and causing the defence problems. Outside of the first month of the season, the running game of Grant has come to the speed of the NSW train network (code for not good). Grant is at a career low of 62 metres a game including 5 games under 50 metres. Look for Grant to get out of dummy half a lot and create the second phase chances against a sometimes vulnerable Sharks middle.
All eyes will be on Nicho Hynes as he presses for a NSW starting spot. After being the sacrificial lamb thrown out to the abattoir in Game 1. Hynes was well contained last start for the first time this season, however that only the second side to effectively shut him down (Dolphins in Magic Round). Hynes' ability to engage the line (second in the NRL with 107 line engages) is something that makes him one of the biggest attacking threats in the game and with the Storm's defence looking as vulnerable as they are. This is one big performance for Hynes in the making.
Favourite: Melbourne are favourites in this contest and with good reason. Their form at AAMI Park has been good (only losing once there in 2023) and have an imposing record against the Sharks as was mentioned.
My tip: Going to keep it short and sweet. I think both sides bounce back significantly on their previous performances. Melbourne conceded their highest points total since 2012 (40) and will be out to atone for their defensive disaster, while Cronulla will look for sharper red-zone efficiency. It has the makings of a great contest, but the Melbourne home crowd should be enough to get them home. Storm by 6.
