Junior Rep Report: Round 22

The Dragons started the game with a fiery intensity, putting the Storm on notice right from the first whistle.

Fullback Benjamin Rumble was the standout for the visitors in the opening stages, crossing the line twice in quick succession to set the tone for his side.

Just four minutes later, Isaiah Fagalilo added another try to the Dragons tally, pushing the lead out to 18-0.

The Storm finally found its rhythm in the 20th minute when Josiah-Ekkehard Neli broke through the Dragons’ defence to put Storm on the board and bring the home side back into the contest.

That try seemed to ignite a spark within the home team, as just six minutes later Delacruz Ripley received a double pump pass from De'Ontae Perese close to the line to narrow the gap to 18-12.

However, the Dragons came into the second half with a blistering start, Campbell Watchirs scoring a crucial try for the visitors in the 36th minute to stretch the visitors lead to 22-12.

Ripley once again proved to be a thorn in the Dragons’ side, crossing the line for his second try of the match in the 50th minute of the match to set up a grandstand finish.

A dramatic final moments saw Storm push hard for a late equaliser but were ultimately beaten by the bell with the fulltime siren sounding to see the Dragons hold on for the tight victory.

Storm will now prepare to face the Sharks at Seabrook Reserve on Saturday in Round 23.

Written by Emily Mattocks