The Matchup:
The
Sunday 1st April, 2pm (NZT), Olympic Park,
History:
The Storm have long had a Kiwi connection associated with them, dating back to their inception when they fielded players like Stephen Kearney and Tawera Nikau – something that has always added that extra bit of meaning to their matches against the New Zealand-based Warriors. The passing of Melbourne Storm team manager Michael Moore in 2000 has added a sombre aspect to the clashes, with the Michael Moore Trophy contested each time the two teams meet. The Warriors currently hold the trophy.
Last Five Encounters:
2004, Round 16: Storm 42-6 Warriors
2005, Round 14:
2005, Round 23: Storm 22-10 Warriors
2006, Round 1: Warriors 16-22 Storm
2006, Round 24:
Last Week:
The Warriors blitzed the Brisbane Broncos in the second quarter of their round two match at Mt Smart Stadium, but failed to capitalise on their lead in the second half. Their early efforts proved enough, however, as they ended up winning 24-14.
The Storm won their second consecutive match, beating a keen but inexperienced Canberra Raiders side 32-16. That follows their first round defeat of the Wests Tigers, with a narrow 18-16 score line.
In The Engine Room:
It should come as no surprise that Warriors captain Steve Price should be the man to watch when it comes to gaining metres up the middle. Against the Broncos he continued his strong early season form, gaining 148m.
The Storm props, Antonio Kaufusi and Brett White, struggled against the Raiders last week, gaining only 54m and 77m respectively. It was their backs who provided most of the gains.
Out The Back:
Warriors winger Michael Crockett scored another brace of tries last week, and he now leads the try scoring statistics across all sixteen teams. Michael Witt stood up against the Broncos, as did Tony Martin and Manu Vatuvei.
Billy Slater returned to form against the Raiders, scoring a try, breaking the
Injury Ward:
For the Warriors, Jerome Ropati (hamstring) failed to return to the field last week, but it is hoped he will be back by round four. Wairangi Koopu (shoulder), Louis Anderson (ankle), and Aiden Kirk (knee) are all still unavailable for selection. Patrick Ah Van (shoulder) makes his return in reserve grade for the Auckland Lions.
The Storm are without Adam Blair (unknown), Matt Rua (wrist), and Steve Turner (ankle). Michael Crocker returns from injury this week.
Taking The Punt:
Warriors coach Ivan Cleary has selected an unchanged team to face the Storm. With both teams undefeated, the quality of opposition must come into account, and the Warriors have dispatched better sides, particularly the Broncos. The Warriors look stronger in the forwards, but the Storm have always excelled with their backs. Look for some great match ups including Slater versus McKinnon and Inglis versus Witt. This will be a close match, and a tough one to call. Warriors by 4.
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