Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 11, 2024 2:31 am GMT
The NRL Qualifying Final between the Melbourne Storm and the Cronulla Sharks is set to kick off this Saturday at 4:05 PM AEST at AAMI Park in Melbourne. With both teams showcasing formidable talent and impressive form, fans can expect an exciting clash as they vie for a spot in the semifinals.
Team Form and Standings
The Melbourne Storm dominated the regular season, finishing first with a record of 19 wins and just 5 losses. They enter the finals on a high note, having secured eight victories in their last ten matches. In contrast, the Cronulla Sharks ended the season in fourth place with 16 wins and 8 losses, showing resilience with six wins in their last ten games. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two sides exhibiting starkly contrasting trajectories throughout the season.
Head-to-Head Record
- Overall Meetings: 46
- Storm Wins: 29
- Sharks Wins: 17
- Finals Meetings: 3 (Storm 2 wins, Sharks 1 win)
- Last Encounter: Round 10, 2024 — Sharks won 25-18 at AAMI Park
- Last Final: 2018 Preliminary Final — Storm won 22-6 at AAMI Park
Key Players to Watch
Melbourne Storm
Jahrome Hughes has been a standout player for the Storm this season, stepping up significantly during Cameron Munster’s absence due to injury. Hughes, who is critical to the team’s attacking game, has recorded a career-high of 25 try assists this season. As the potential architect of many scoring plays, his performance will be key for the Storm.
Another significant player for Melbourne is Ryan Papenhuyzen. Returning from a minor leg injury, Papenhuyzen is expected to bring his dynamic playmaking skills back onto the field. Although he has faced challenges with injuries in recent years, his experience and game-reading ability make him a dangerous threat in finals football.
Cronulla Sharks
For the Sharks, Nicho Hynes is under the spotlight, having recently returned from an ankle injury. This marks only his third game back, yet he showed promise in Cronulla’s impressive victory over Manly last week. Hynes’ capacity to share the playmaking responsibilities with Braydon Trindall will be crucial in creating scoring opportunities.
Also noteworthy is Briton Nikora, whose agile playing style adds depth to the Sharks’ second-row unit. His recent performances have underscored his ability to exploit gaps in the defense, making him a player to watch during this critical matchup.
Historical Context and Recent Performance
Despite their strong showing this season, the Sharks have struggled in finals scenarios recently. They have lost their last six finals matches and eight out of the last nine, with their last post-season win occurring in the second week of the 2018 finals series. The Sharks will aim to break this streak and make a significant impact in this seasons’ finals.
Match Details
As anticipation builds for this critical match, fans are keen to see how both teams execute their game plans. The Melbourne Storm’s strong home record and recent form position them as favorites, but the Sharks are determined to capitalize on their strengths and reverse their fortunes in the finals.
Both teams have amazing players who can really change the game. This makes the Qualifying Final super exciting and important for the NRL playoffs ahead.
