In 2018, Stats that matter will be brought to you by Comwire.
Melbourne opened their 2018 season with an impressive display in Perth which ended with a 36-18 victory over the Bulldogs. Here are the numbers behind the win.
16
That’s the number of Round 1 wins Storm have now recorded in a row. Save for a bye round in the opening round of 2004, Melbourne have not been defeated in a Round 1 fixture since 2001. It’s an enviable record which has helped Storm get on the front foot to start seasons for as long as many can remember.
3
Three was Cameron Munster’s magic number on Saturday night.
The youngster was on song after moving back into the fullback role to cover the injured Billy Slater. Munster broke the game open during the first 40 minutes of play, handing Storm a crucial advantage at the break, handing try assists to Josh Addo-Carr and Kenny Bromwich. It was simply a joy to watch the Queensland Origin representative in full flight.
Munster then put an exclamation mark on his performance as time ticked down, putting Suliasi Vunivalu through to seal victory.
46
Just like clockwork.
A new season – same Cameron Smith. The Storm skipper lead from the front in the middle of the ruck, completing a game and team high 46 tackles. His work rate was tireless, with the next best on the field being Josh Jackson’s 32.
6
Too good for just one stat, Cameron Smith returns again and this time for his sublime accuracy in front of goal.
Smith kicked (quite literally) 2018 off in perfect style, finishing six from six attempts in front of the posts, dazzling the Perth faithful with several sideline conversions.
