FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27th 2024 AAMI PARK MELBOURNE
Two of the Most Dominant Teams Set for Epic Grand Final Qualifier Showdown
Two of the most dominant teams of the modern era are set to face off in a highly anticipated clash, with a spot in the grand final on October 6 up for grabs.
Storm Aim for Fifth Grand Final in Nine Years Against Roosters
For the Storm, it would mark their fifth grand final appearance in nine years, while the Roosters aim to return to the big stage for the first time since their consecutive titles in 2018 and 2019.
The Storm remain unchanged following their commanding 37-10 victory over the Sharks in the opening week of the finals. However, Sua Fa’alogo, named on the extended bench after missing the match with a hamstring injury, could be a late inclusion.
Storm
1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. William Warbrick 3. Jack Howarth 4. Nick Meaney 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Trent Loiero 14. Tyran Wishart 15. Christian Welch 16. Tui Kamikamica 17. Alec MacDonald 18. Grant Anderson 19. Kane Bradley 20. Lazarus Vaalepu 21. Joe Chan 22. Sualauvi Faalogo
Roosters Seek Grand Final Return After Dominant Semi-Final Performance
The Roosters will field the same lineup that overpowered the Sea Eagles in last week’s semi-final. Their convincing 40-16 victory against a formidable Manly team sets the stage for an even tougher challenge as they aim for their first grand final appearance since 2019.
The Storm have triumphed in both meetings between these teams this season, including a 24-8 victory in Round 20. Last year’s finals clash saw Melbourne snatch a thrilling win with a late Will Warbrick try. Both sides feature formidable aerial threats across the backline, with all four wingers known for spectacular finishes. The pressure will be on the halves to deliver precise kicks to set up their outside backs.
Key Matchup: Storm’s Stellar Wingers vs. Roosters’ Aerial Threats
Particular pressure rests on Luke Keary, who will be relied upon to steer the team once again, despite Sandon Smith’s solid performance last week in place of the injured Sam Walker. Star fullback James Tedesco will also play a crucial role as he looks to replicate his standout performance from a week ago. In the Roosters’ win, Tedesco was everywhere, scoring two tries, setting up two more, while adding two line-breaks and three line-break assists.
Roosters
1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii 4. Joseph Manu 5. Dominic Young 6. Luke Keary 7. Sandon Smith 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Connor Watson 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Angus Crichton 12. Sitili Tupouniua 13. Victor Radley 14. Spencer Leniu 15. Naufahu Whyte 16. Nat Butcher 17. Terrell May 18. Zach Dockar-Clay 19. Siua Wong 20. Fetalaiga Pauga 21. Jake Elliott 22. Michael Jennings
Pressure on Keary and Tedesco as Roosters Face Off Against Storm
If the Storm can neutralize the threat posed by Tedesco, they’ll greatly increase their chances of victory.
Dally M contender Jahrome Hughes will aim to set the tone, with his partnership with Eliesa Katoa on the right edge troubling opponents all season. While Cameron Munster hasn’t hit peak form since his return from injury, he remains a constant threat, capable of game-changing moments. The Roosters will need to contain his dangerous running game to stay in the contest.
Recent History Favours Storm in Clash Against Roosters
Recent history favours the Storm, who have won 10 of their last 11 encounters with the Roosters. Despite Tedesco being in near career-best form, the absence of Sam Walker and facing a full-strength Storm side at home may prove too great a challenge for the Roosters.
Referee. Grant Atkins, Touch Judges. Phil Henderson, Dave Munro, Bunker. Wyatt Raymond
The Storm have won 10 of their last 11 games against the Roosters.
The Roosters have also lost their past three matches at AAMI Park.
Storm winger Xavier Coates has crossed for eight tries in his last four games against the Roosters.
Roosters prop Spencer Leniu is set to play his 100th NRL game, while Storm captain Harry Grant will also celebrate his 100th NRL appearance.
Prediction
Both sides will need to be disciplined and not get caught out by the hype. If any player gets sin binned, which I believe will happen, The other side will have a tremendous advantage, so the big boys must behave.
I can not go past the Storm here at home, in front of a sold out crowd. The Roosters have momentum after last week and will compete for some time, but in the end the Storm by about 10 points.
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