FRIDAY APRIL 12th, 2024 AAMI STADIUM, MELBOURNE
Bulldogs Face Tough Test Against Storm in Melbourne
The Bulldogs continue to show signs of improvement in 2024 and will get a good gauge of how far they have come when they travel to Melbourne.
The Storm, despite grappling with injuries and suspensions to key players, currently hold the third position on the ladder after five rounds. Their continued dominance over the Broncos signals an ominous form.
Although Coach Craig Bellamy might be displeased with the 32 points conceded against last year’s grand finalists, the remarkable comeback from an eight-point deficit early in the second half stands as a significant positive from the game.
Both teams showcase considerable firepower on the flanks, with Eli Katoa and Viiiame Kikau emerging as standout performers in Round 5. The anticipated clash between No.6s Cameron Munster and Matt Burton promises to be captivating.
Having secured a flawless 3-0 record at home this season, the Storm, with Munster and Jahrome Hughes reunited, aim to capitalize on their upcoming matches against the Bulldogs, Roosters, Rabbitohs, and Titans before facing absences due to Origin commitments.
In the lineup that triumphed over the Broncos in Round 5, the sole alteration sees Tepai Moeroa stepping onto the bench in lieu of Jack Howarth, who moves to the reserves. Nelson Asofa-Solomona is also part of the extended squad as he seeks to reclaim his spot in the primary lineup. Additionally, Joe Chan, recuperated from a hand injury in the Queensland Cup, is named as the 18th man.
Storm.
1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. William Warbrick 3. Reimis Smith 4. Nick Meaney 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Trent Loiero, 14. Tyran Wishart 15. Christian Welch 16. Tepai Moeroa 17. Alec MacDonald, 18. Joe Chan 19. Jack Howarth 20. Marion Seve 21. Jonah Pezet 22. Nelson Asofa-Solomona
Injury Woes Hit Bulldogs Ahead of Storm Showdown
Bulldogs fullback Blake Taaffe is set to miss the match after failing his HIA on Friday night while teammates Kurt Mann (hand), Connor Tracey (calf) and Chris Patolo (shoulder) are also in doubt.
Key Line-up Changes for Both Teams
Stephen Crichton steps into the fullback role in lieu of Blake Taaffe, who is sidelined due to concussion. Consequently, Jacob Kiraz transitions to centre, while Josh Addo-Carr returns to the wing following his recovery from a concussion.
Kurt Mann’s absence due to a hand injury necessitates Jaeman Salmon’s shift to the No.13 position, with Josh Curran entering the second row.
Debutant Bailey Hayward and Poasa Faamausili join the bench, replacing Harrison Edwards, who is sidelined due to a neck injury.
Bulldogs
1. Stephen Crichton 2. Connor Tracey 3. Jacob Kiraz 4. Bronson Xerri 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Matt Burton 7. Drew Hutchison 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Chris Patolo 11. Viliame Kikau 12. Josh Curran 13. Jaeman Salmon, 14. Bailey Hayward 15. Poasa Faamausili 16. Samuel Hughes 17. Kitione Kautoga, 19. Toby Sexton 20. Liam Knight 21. Jake Turpin 22. Jeral Skelton 23. Harry Hayes
Referee. Wyatt Raymond, Touch Judges, Todd Smith, Tyson Brough, Bunker, Grant Atkins.
Notable Statistics and Records Heading into the Match
The Storm have won seven of their past eight games against the Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs have won only one of their past 10 away games.
The Storm have won their past 12 games at AAMI Park.
Bulldogs winger Josh Addo-Carr has scored seven tries in his past nine games at AAMI Park.
Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen has scored 48 points in his past two games against the Bulldogs.
Expert Prediction: Storm Favored Over Bulldogs
Prediction.
The Storm were almost back to their very best last week, with the return of their full spine against the Broncos. The Bulldogs showcased brilliance in the first half before experiencing a collapse, yet managed to maintain resilience and hold on against the Roosters. Injuries have hit the Bulldogs hard and although they often give the Storm a tough time, they will struggle on this occasion. Storm for me.
LATE MAIL. Max King has been ruled out after suffering a broken hand in Round 5.
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