Melbourne Storm v Sydney Roosters
SQUADS: Betfred Championship - 2024 Grand Final
15 hours ago | LeagueUnlimited Media
Storm v Roosters preview
Will the Storm weather the Roosters' attack?
When these teams last met in Round 7, the Storm secured a gritty 18-12 win in Sydney, with Xavier Coates making a significant impact. The Storm's fortress at AAMI Park has seen them lose only one game this year, and they come into this match on a five-game winning streak.
The Melbourne Storm had a week off in Round 19, giving them ample time to prepare for this crucial clash. Coming off a dominant win over the Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval in Round 18, the Storm displayed their attacking prowess, although the 28 points conceded was the second-highest against them this season. Sitting at the top of the table with 13 wins, the Storm are four points clear of Penrith. A victory here could see them extend their lead further, especially if the Panthers falter against the Dolphins.
With Bronson Garlick set to miss the game due to a back injury, Harry Grant has been named to back up after State of Origin Game 3. Nick Meany returns from a calf injury, slotting back into the centres, which pushes Grant Anderson to the wing and Kane Bradley out of the team. Nelson Asofa-Solomona is named on the interchange, with Tui Kamikamica starting in the forward pack.
The Sydney Roosters also had a bye in Round 19, following a commanding 42-12 win over the Dragons in Round 18. Currently sitting in third place with 11 wins, the Roosters are in excellent form. They have won their last four games convincingly and boast the best attack in the competition. Over their last four wins, they've amassed 136 points, showcasing their offensive firepower.
In team news for the Roosters, Lindsay Collins, Angus Crichton, Connor Watson, and Spencer Leniu have all been named to back up after State of Origin Game 3, which would be huge for the tri-colours. The return of Joseph Sua'ali'i, who served his four-match ban after State of Origin Game 1, and Victor Radley, who is returning from concussion protocols, will also help to bolster the Roosters' lineup. With Jared Waerea-Hargreaves spending some time on the sideline, Terrell May moves into the starting forward pack with Sandon Smith and Naufahu Whyte added to the bench.
Last meeting: Round 7 2024 - Roosters 12 Storm 18
Who to watch: Looking to start stringing some games together before the final series approaches, Melbourne's fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen will be looking to bring back the form he has shown in times before his intense injuries. Against the current Australian fullback, this game will allow Paps to show what he has.
After spending a month on the sideline for a high hit on Reece Walsh in Game 1 of State of Origin, Roosters centre Joseph Sua'ali'i will be looking to redeem himself after missing so much game time. Leading into this game, Sua'ali'i scored 26 tries in 56 games and averages 135 run meters per game.
FAVOURITE: Despite the Storm's impressive record at AAMI Park, the Roosters are slight favourites to end Melbourne's five-game winning streak and extend their own.
MY TIP: This is a tough one to call with both sides near the top of the table. If their Origin players back up well, the Roosters will have the edge across the field. This game previews what we can expect in the finals, with both teams being realistic premiership contenders. It should certainly be close. Roosters by 2.
1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. William Warbrick 3. Jack Howarth 4. Nick Meaney 5. Grant Anderson 6. Tyran Wishart 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Trent Loiero 14. Sualauvi Faalogo 17. Alec MacDonald 19. Joe Chan 22. Lazarus Vaalepu 21. Chris Lewis
1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii 4. Sitili Tupouniua 5. Dominic Young 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Terrell May 9. Brandon Smith 17. Naufahu Whyte 11. Angus Crichton 12. Victor Radley 13. Connor Watson 10. Lindsay Collins 14. Sandon Smith 15. Spencer Leniu 16. Nat Butcher 18. Ethan King
Referees: Grant Atkins; Sideline Officials: Phil Henderson, Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski; Video Referees: Ashley Klein;