Game Summary
In one of the upsets of the weekend, Melbourne Storm had a gutsy 20-18 victory over Newtown Jets at Henson Park in Round 19 of The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup, picking up their fifth win of the season in the process.
Melbourne made a stunning start scoring twice inside the opening 10 minutes to race out to a 10-nil lead. Dummy-half Gabriel Satrick was the architect and executioner of both, first grubbering and regathering to score, then capitalising on a lazy defensive line to cross for his second. Waka Hammond's conversion made it 10-0, and the visitors had every reason to be optimistic.
Newtown hit back through Michael Gabriel, who showed tremendous strength close to the try-line to reduce the deficit to 10-4 before the Jets began to gain momentum. Riley Pollard crossed next to the posts after some clever backline play, and Niua Puru converted to level at 10-all.
The Jets then turned the screws and fullback Liam Ison added to a strong personal performance by bursting over the line on the stroke of half-time. Niwhai Puru's conversion gave Newtown a 16-10 lead at the break after the home side had posted 16 unanswered points.
A Puru penalty goal in the early stages of the second half extended the Jets' advantage to eight points, and it appeared the home side was in control. But Melbourne refused to fold as Liam Williams crossed after a grubber deflected off a Newtown defender, reducing the margin to 18-14.
Stanley Huen then powered over from close range with 13 minutes remaining to level proceedings at 18-all. Dylan Brettle's sideline conversion from the right edge was superb under pressure as Melbourne took a narrow 20-18 lead.
Newtown had opportunities to win it, but couldn't find the try-line in the second half as Melbourne held on for a famous 20-18 win.
Talking Points
Gabriel Satrick was outstanding for Melbourne, finishing with a double and consistently causing problems around the ruck with his speed from dummy-half. His first try - a grubber and regather - showed great presence of mind and set the tone for Melbourne's bold approach.
Liam Ison was Newtown's most dangerous attacker across 80 minutes, being a constant threat out of the backfield. His try before half-time proved the Jets had the quality to win the game, but they couldn't back it up in the second half.
Key Moment
With Newtown leading 18-10 and seemingly in control, Melbourne scored two tries in quick succession through Williams and Huen, with Brettle's composed conversion from the right touchline giving the Storm a two-point lead they would not relinquish.
What's Next?
The Storm will look to make it three straight wins when they face the Sydney Roosters on Friday at Allianz Stadium in Round 20, while the Jets host Newcastle Knights at Henson Park on Saturday.
