NRL, ROUND 15, JUNE 11th 2023 AAMI PARK MELBOURNE
In a highly anticipated clash at AAMI Park on June 11th, 2023, the NRL Round 15 brings together two formidable teams, the Melbourne Storm and the Cronulla Sharks. These clubs, rich in history and both currently placed in the top eight, are set to engage in a fierce encounter following lackluster performances in Round 14.
The Storm, known for their consistency and dominance, were caught off guard by the Cowboys in Townsville, conceding an uncharacteristic 45 points. It was a bitter blow to their otherwise solid season. Such a defeat hasn’t been seen since 2003, leaving no doubt that coach Craig Bellamy has been driving his players relentlessly in preparation for this upcoming clash.
Prior to their setback, Melbourne had displayed impressive form, securing victories against the Broncos and Dolphins. However, their momentum was momentarily halted by the bye, and they’ll be eager to regain their winning ways against the Sharks.
Similarly, Cronulla’s two-game winning streak came to a halt when they faced a formidable Broncos outfit on their home turf. The Sharks succumbed to a 20-12 defeat, leaving them determined to bounce back and prove their mettle against the Storm.
One player under intense scrutiny during this clash is Nicho Hynes, who stands as the frontrunner to replace the injured Nathan Cleary as the starting halfback for NSW in Origin II. With competition from Adam Reynolds and Mitch Moses, Hynes will need to deliver an impressive performance against his former club to solidify his position.
When analyzing the head-to-head statistics, the Storm hold the upper hand, having emerged victorious in their last four encounters against the Sharks at AAMI Park. What’s more, all four wins have been by substantial margins of 13 points or more. On the other hand, Cronulla’s last triumph on Melbourne’s home turf dates back to 2018, highlighting the challenges they face in this crucial clash.
Noteworthy contributors to keep an eye on include Xavier Coates, who has scored an impressive 16 tries in 14 games at AAMI Park, and Sione Katoa, who has found the try line in three of his last four matches against the Storm.
As the game approaches, it remains a difficult one to predict. Both teams have showcased glimpses of brilliance throughout the season but have struggled to maintain consistent performances week after week. The upcoming clash presents an opportunity for both sides to establish themselves as genuine contenders.
In team news, the Storm will miss the services of Justin Olam, who failed a HIA, but Grant Anderson steps in to fill his position. Tariq Sims joins the bench, adding depth to Melbourne’s lineup. Meanwhile, the Sharks welcome back Cameron McInnes, who returns from a hand injury, while Thomas Hazelton returns to the reserves. Despite charges from the Match Review Committee, Blayke Brailey, Ronaldo Mulitalo, and Braden Hamlin-Uele are all set to take the field this weekend.
The stage is set for an exhilarating clash between the Melbourne Storm and the Cronulla Sharks. Brace yourself for an enthralling encounter filled with adrenaline, skill, and determination as these two powerhouses battle it out at AAMI Park.
Storm team: 1. Nick Meaney 2. William Warbrick 3. Reimis Smith 4. Grant Anderson 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant 10. Christian Welch 11. Trent Loiero 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Josh King 14. Bronson Garlick 15. Aaron Pene 16. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 17. Tariq Sims 18. Sualauvi Faalogo 19. Marion Seve 20. Kane Bradley 21. Tyran Wishart 22. Tom Eisenhuth
Sharks team: 1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Matt Moylan 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Oregon Kaufusi 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Royce Hunt 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Dale Finucane 14. Cameron McInnes 15. Wade Graham 16. Jack Williams 17. Braden Hamlin-Uele 18. Braydon Trindall 19. Connor Tracey 20. Thomas Hazelton 21. Daniel Atkinson 22. Jesse Colquhoun
Referee: Ashley Klein
Touch Judge: Drew Oultram
Senior Review Official: Chris Butler
PREDICTION
I am going to go with the home side here. As always I think the home side is an advantage. The Storm 1-12 @ $3.00
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