Roar Guru
The excellent work of Shaun Johnson was the highlight of the day as the New Zealand Warriors defeatead the Melbourne Storm.
>> MATCH REPORT: Warriors beat Storm with magic Johnson
The Warriors took control of the game early, leading 16-0 at half time. While the Storm fought back in the second half, a freakish pass from Nathan Friend led to a Lolohea try that sealed the deal.
New Zealand 28 def Melbourne Storm 14
The Warriors have won two straight games, but it will be another test when the Melbourne Storm cross the ditch on Sunday afternoon. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 2:00pm (AEST).
The New Zealand side has been in good form in recent weeks, and back-to-back victories over the Titans and the Raiders puts them firmly inside the top eight.
With a 4-3 record at home, the Warriors would love a win over the Storm to really challenge for a top four finish. With Shaun Johnson in great form, and a back five that can match it with anyone, the Warriors will be hard to stop.
The Storm on the other hand are moving down the ladder, with three straight losses putting their top eight position in jeopardy. After a home loss to the Eels in Round 14, the Storm recorded losses to the Broncos and the Bulldogs to drop out of the top four.
They do welcome their Origin stars back this weekend, but the loss of Billy Slater for the season has put a massive dent in the premiership credentials.
The Warriors have no changes for this game, meaning both Jacob Lillyman and Ryan Hoffman will back up from Origin III. David Fusitu’a has been named on an extended bench.
The Storm have lost Jordan McLean for this clash, giving Ben Hampton another chance in the NRL. He joins the bench, while Cooper Cronk returns from his knee injury for his club. Cameron Smith has been named at hooker, while Hymel Hunt and Richard Kennar both retain their spots on the flank.
Prediction:
This should be a close match, and it wouldn’t surprise me if it’s decided within the last five minutes.
The Warriors home advantage should get them over the line though, and I’m predicting a little bit of Shaun Johnson brilliance to get them over the line.
Warriors by 4.