Storm fullback Nick Meaney delivered a mammoth efficiency in opposition to the Roosters, and with Ryan Papenhuyzen’s return looming coach Craig Bellamy might have a headache on his arms.
Papenhuyzen suffered a shattered kneecap in July final 12 months throughout a deal with with Raiders star Jack Wighton.
The 24-year-old travelled to the United States within the low season to rehab the damage with famend specialist Bill Knowles, who additionally labored with Tom Trbojevic and Latrell Mitchell.
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While a return date is but to be confirmed for the gun fullback, Meaney has delivered in his absence and ran riot in opposition to the Tricolours.
Despite being sidelined for quarter-hour with a HIA, the previous Bulldog recorded a attempt, two attempt assists and 103 operating metres in solely 65 minutes on the sphere.
Bellamy made it clear Meaney will stay within the Storm’s beginning aspect when Papenhuyzen returns.
“I haven’t though about it to be honest, still not quite sure when Paps (Papenhuyzen) is going to be back,” Bellamy mentioned within the post-match press convention.
“I am pretty sure we will find a spot for Nick there somewhere, he’s been one of our most consistent players all year and I thought his first half tonight was outstanding.
“So it will be a nice problem to have, but it’s not a problem at the moment.”
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Melbourne Strom Press Conference | 07:48
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Meanwhile, Melbourne’s star-studded backbone of Cameron Munster, Jahrome Hughes and Harry Grant all stood tall to down Trent Robinson’s aspect.
They trio final took the sphere collectively in Round 1 earlier than a finger damage and suspension noticed each Munster and Hughes sidelined.
Melbourne captain Christian Welch mentioned his aspect have “strike power everywhere” when their backbone is match and firing.
“I think, Munster on our left, Hughes on our right, Harry playing through the middle,” Welch mentioned.
“We just have got to complete and build pressure and those guys can come out and make some plays, as we saw tonight those guys are quality players and they are world class.
“So it is really exciting seeing them gel and we had a bit of a disrupted start to the season, but it’s really exciting for the club.”
The Storm now sit on a three-game profitable streak, besting the Tigers, Rabbitohs and Roosters on Thursday evening.
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