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The Melbourne Storm have secured a spot in next week’s finals with a 22 to 12 victory over the Brisbane Broncos on Friday night.
Melbourne will be sweating on the fitness of skipper Cameron Smith who came off in 28th minute of the match with a high ankle sprain.
Although Smith returned to the field in the 2nd half, he was still bothered by the ankle issue as he was unable to kick for goal.
For the Brisbane side, they have an anxious wait as they need to rely on both the Eels and Warriors to lose on the weekend to secure a finals spot.
FINAL SCORE:
Storm 22
Broncos 12
Friday night is a huge game for both the Melbourne Storm and the Brisbane Broncos as they look to either sneak into the top 8 or push for a top 4 finish. Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 7:30pm (AEST).
The Broncos need a win to keep their season alive but must also rely on Penrith beating the Warriors on Sunday night.
Melbourne will also sweat on other results if they are to lose at AAMI Park. A win would secure a spot in the top 8 and possibly the top 4 if Penrith are to lose on Sunday night. Reversely, a loss could force them out of the 8 if the Bulldogs, Cowboys and Warriors win.
Hands up if you’re confused?
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Luckily, this match promises to be of the highest quality. Brisbane will be desperate to crack a seven match-losing streak against the Storm and will be hoping that their season doesn’t finish with a loss.
In team news, Brisbane has lost Sam Thaiday to suspension with Todd Lowrie expected to replace him.
This match, as noted earlier, will be one of the highest quality. Two of the competition’s best halfbacks go up against each other and this battle will prove vital to both side’s chances of winning.
Ben Hunt has emerged this year as one of the better halfbacks in the competition. Although being at the club and playing plenty of first grade football previously, this year his game has gone to another level and Queensland coach Mal Meninga has rewarded him for this. The Holden Cup ‘Player of the Year’ from 2008 will have to lift again tonight if he is to overcome his opposite number seven.
Cooper Cronk is one of the best players in the game. His 4 Dally M “Halfback of the Year Awards” is a testament to his professionalism and skill. Cronk is a vital cog in what is a well-oiled Melbourne team and if Cronk brings his best on Friday, Brisbane could be in for a long night.
Also look out for Justin Hodges and Billy Slater. Hodges has stepped into fullback recently with the injury to Josh Hoffman, and despite his ageing legs, he has proved that he still has that X-Factor. Slater on the other hand relishes the big stage and will be looking to build on his handy 12 tries that he has collected already this year.
In closing, it is hard to see Melbourne giving this match up after a close fought loss last week.
Melbourne should have too much class for the Broncos but expect a tight encounter with the Broncos to throw everything at the men in purple.
Storm by 4
Can Anthony Griffin lead his team to a win in the hope of extending his stay at the club a week longer, or will Melbourne be too strong?
Join The Roar from 7:30pm (AEST) for live score updates and debate in our live blog.
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