Storm v Roosters preview

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Melbourne Storm v Sydney Roosters Thursday 7:50pm at AAMI Park, Melbourne / Wurundjeri

Two teams who have dominated the game in recent times are facing off, both only losing two games so far in the 2023 season.

Melbourne have had a rocky start to the 2023 seasons, mixed with injury and suspension, but finally bouncing back with a win against the Rabbitohs, making it now two consecutive wins after two consecutive losses to both the Bulldogs and Titans.

After opening the season with a loss against the Dolphins, the Roosters have had a solid season, boasting wins against the Warriors, Rabbitohs and most recently the Eels, where they fought hard for the win after losing Tedesco early in the first half.

Melbourne's halfback Jahrome Hughes returns from a two-week suspension, with Jonah Pezet dropped to reserve grade. Tariq Sims also claims a spot on the bench, with Grant Anderson being named the team's 18th man.

With James Tedesco suffering from a head knock last week, he has been stood down for 11 days following new HIA protocol. Joey Manu returns from suspension this week and will be filling in for Tedesco at fullback.

It'll be an interesting Thursday night clash, with both teams considered premiership heavyweights, and still gaining their bearings in the 2023 season. Looking forward to seeing a tight game, with each side boasting some impressive, key players in the game.

Last meeting: Round 24 2022 - Storm 14 Roosters 18

Who to watch: I'm looking forward to the battle of the 9's, especially with Brandon Smith being an ex-Storm player.

Harry Grant is a force to be reckoned with, currently leading the Dally M leaderboard in a 3-way tie. Averaging 50 tackles each game this season, alongside an always evolving kicking game, I'm excited to see what try-saving tackles he comes up with on Thursday night and potentially another 4-pointer for him.

On the opposing team, Brandon Smith has had a slow start to his season at the Roosters where he started on the interchange bench. However, as the season progresses, we are really seeing him fit into the team and make more impressive plays. I'm excited to see what he produces on Thursday night, coming up against his former club for the first time.

Favourites: Melbourne are minorly favoured to beat the Sydney Roosters at home.

My tip: With both sides finally finding their footing for the season I think it'll be a close one, however the Roosters will be without their star fullback and the Storm will be playing with the return of their playmaking halfback. With the return of Hughes and the progression of Melbourne's footy over the past two weeks, I think they have it in them to claim victory at home. Melbourne by 12.

1. Nick Meaney 2. William Warbrick 3. Reimis Smith 4. Justin Olam 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant 10. Christian Welch 11. Trent Loiero 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Josh King 14. Bronson Garlick 15. Alec MacDonald 16. Tom Eisenhuth 17. Tariq Sims 19. Grant Anderson

1. Joseph Manu 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Joseph Suaalii 4. Drew Hutchison 5. Jaxson Paulo 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Brandon Smith 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Egan Butcher 12. Nat Butcher 13. Victor Radley 14. Jake Turpin 15. Terrell May 16. Corey Allan 17. Fletcher Baker 18. Naufahu Whyte

Referees: Ashley Klein; Sideline Officials: Kasey Badger, Darian Furner; Video Referees: Gerard Sutton;