It is cliché to call Melbourne Storm’s forward pack a team within a team. Perhaps a group of mates amongst mates would be a better way of putting it.
Most of them are in their mid-20s, have entered or are entering the prime of their careers and have risen through the NRL ranks alongside one another.
A natural chemistry has been built between them over that time and the results are starting to show.
Be at AAMI Park when Storm host the Knights on Saturday 2 April from 3pm.
Consistent performances from Storm’s forward pack have been a big factor behind the team’s unbeaten start to the season.
Each win has come in a hard fought manner, something this side has come to embrace over time.
“Storm are probably known for those grinding wins so it is probably what we are used to more than anything,” prop Tim Glasby said.
“In tough games the forwards really have to stand up and the boys are really doing that at the moment, it is really good to see.”
While Storm fans see the forward pack in full force on game day, Glasby offered a deeper insight into what goes on on off the field to make them a vital cog in Craig Bellamy’s side.
“We get along really well, the forward pack this morning actually caught up for breaky,” he said.
“Obviously we do a lot of work in review and on the field as a pack. We are good mates and we work well together I think.
“Probably one of the best things about playing together for a few years now is that we do know little things about each other’s games and what each of us are good at and not so good at, we can help each other in that respect.”
With the likes of Jesse Bromwich in the group it would be easy for the other players to file in behind the Kiwi superstar.
Yet it is quite the opposite, total input rather than a ‘follow the leader’ mentality is what helps these Storm big men tick.
“We do expect everyone to have an input. Being a bunch of players that have been together for a couple of years now everyone is open to what everyone has to say,” Glasby said.
“You don’t have to rely on Jesse or Cameron to talk to us, the other boys can say what they think as well and everyone respects their opinions.”
Storm will travel to take on Cronulla on Monday night at Shark Park, kickoff at 7pm.
