The Storm got back on track with a win over the Warriors and will look to build momentum against a struggling Titans side that has lost nine in a row.
A top-four finish will be the focus for Melbourne, who face a tough home run with games against the Panthers, Broncos, Roosters and Eels after this weekend.
The Titans are looking to restore pride after a horror season and if they are to rattle the Storm’s cage, a lot will depend on David Fifita and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui laying the groundwork for AJ Brimson and Jayden Campbell to work from.
A trip to AAMI Park is a daunting prospect at the best of times, but for a team low on confidence and moving towards a second wooden spoon in four years, it will take a huge effort to avoid a blowout.
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Until next time
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The Rundown
Team news
Storm: Cameron Munster moves to full-back, with Tyran Wishart returning to the bench and Cooper Johns joining the squad at five-eighth. Xavier Coates returns from injury at winger replacing Dean Ieremia who is now a substitute. Tui Kamikamica will start at block and Josh King returns to the bench. Hooker Brandon Smith is back from suspension, while winger David Nofoaluma makes his club debut after arriving on loan from Wests Tigers. Center Justin Olam is out with COVID.
Titans: After originally being named to the bench, Greg Marzhew will start on the wing with Patrick Herbert leaving. Sam McIntyre is the new man at the exchange. Jayden Campbell returns to starting fullback after two games in the swap, with AJ Brimson at five-eighth and Tanah Boyd in the middle.
key match
Felise Kaufusi against Tino Faisuamaleaui: Two hard-headed Maroons who leave nothing in the tank every time they take to the field. After spending time in the United States with his ailing father, Kaufusi has returned with 97 tackles and 257 yards in the last three games. The big-play specialist will continue to build for the finals and be ready to explode in September. Tino’s Titans won’t be there when the whips crack, but the young skipper has done his best to ensure they don’t pick up the wooden spoon, running for 153 meters per game and making 42 tackles so far this season.
Statistical attack
The Storm lead the NRL for average tackles with 268, well clear of the Bulldogs in second place with 223. The 1-2 punch of Harry Grant and dummy-half Brandon Smith has undone many defensive lines in 2022 and they are meet Friday following Smith’s three-game suspension for misconduct.