Stats that Matter - Round 17

82

The most points ever scored in a game between Storm and the Dragons. The combined tally eclipsed the 70-10 score line back in 1999 when Melbourne also emerged victorious at the MCG. Thursday night was simply nonstop end to end action as both teams appeared to trade tries at will. At one stage Melbourne scored four tries, only for St George Illawarra to respond within less than ten minutes of each of them.

9

Four tries. Nine minutes. Two points secured! It was a quality game throughout but the late second half blitz by Melbourne was nothing short of electric. As the game ticked into the 66th minute Storm trailed by two points. Fast forward nine minutes latter and Craig Bellamy's men were all of a sudden sitting pretty, 22 points in the clear. That attacking showcase should fill the youngsters with confidence as they helped steer the side to its biggest score of 2018.

4

A crucial result to the make-up of the competition ladder. With the Panthers (4th) and Warriors (5th) playing each other this weekend that means, unless both teams, play out a draw, Melbourne is assured of being a game clear inside the top four by the end of the round. This five game winning streak the team is currently on during the Origin period could prove invaluable once all the points are tallied up at the end of the home and away season.

1

Jahrome Hughes was once again flawless at fullback. With every touch of the football the 23-year-old made Storm fans more and more certain of the future. Hughes finished with 209 running metres on the night, 54 more than any other player on the field. He also added a line break, two line break assists, a try assist, seven tackle breaks and one brilliant try to his name.