Storm Secures 2024 Minor Premiership with Dominant Victory

The Melbourne Storm has claimed the 2024 Minor Premiership following a resounding 48-6 win against the Dolphins. This victory marks the Storm’s fifth Minor Premiership in eight years, showcasing their dominance in the NRL.

The match witnessed a memorable moment in the 69th minute when Nelson Asofa-Solomona scored during his 200th NRL game. The Storm initially struggled to find the try line, with the first try being scored after 19 minutes. However, once they found their rhythm, they quickly accumulated seven tries.

Sua Fa’alogo, who was promoted to the wing, opened the scoring by crossing in the corner. Captain Harry Grant soon extended the lead, but the Dolphins’ troubles mounted as Felise Kaufusi was sin-binned and Kodi Nikorima and Jesse Bromwich suffered head injuries in the final minutes of the first half.

The Storm capitalized on their one-man advantage by scoring two quick tries before the break. Upon learning of the Panthers‘ earlier loss, the Storm came out firing in the second half, scoring two tries in the first five minutes.

Fa’alogo’s second try was controversial, as it appeared he grounded the ball on the dead ball line. Eli Katoa also crossed the line, bringing his season total to 11 tries, tying him for the team’s lead. Asofa-Solomona celebrated his milestone game with a touchdown, while Josh King capped off the victory with a try in the 74th minute.

The performance by the Storm was termed a “stunning” display, drawing praise from former player Cooper Cronk and Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga. Meninga noted that the Storm effectively dominated the match and showcased their intent ahead of the finals.

Melbourne’s star players excelled, with Jahrome Hughes delivering an exceptional performance, contributing a try, multiple assists, and significant running yards. Cameron Munster, despite managing a groin injury, also showed signs of improvement by reaching nearly 100 running meters.

However, the Dolphins face a challenging path ahead. After this defeat, which is their heaviest of the season, their chances for finals qualification hang in the balance. Coach Wayne Bennett described the match as their worst performance.

Currently positioned 10th, the Dolphins must win their remaining games against the Broncos and Knights while hoping for unfavorable outcomes for the Dragons to retain their playoff hopes.