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Melbourne Storm Round 1 2009

2009-03-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

NRL Team Melbourne Storm named for round 1 , 2009

Coach Bellamy discusses things:

Bellamy discusses his team selection for Round One against the Dragons

NRL Melbourne Storm head coach Craig Bellamy today announced his team ahead of the Round One clash against the Dragons at Olympic Park on Friday night at 7.35pm.

Inglis Storm NRL to 2012

2008-09-10T07:51:00.003-07:00

NRL and Melbourne Storm star Greg Inglis has today committed his future to the club that discovered him by signing a four-year contract that will see him remain in Melbourne until the end of the 2012 season.

While Inglis was already contracted to the Storm until the end of the 2010 season, this four-year deal will take over from his current contract.

Inglis, who won the representative and five-eighth player-of-the-year awards at last night’s Dally M ceremony, is delighted to have signed a new contract with the Storm.

“My first preference was always to stay in rugby league, and especially with the Melbourne Storm,” said Inglis.

“I’m just glad the deal has been done now so the speculation about my future can end and I can concentrate on helping the Storm win another premiership.”

Inglis joins a host of players, including Cooper Cronk, Dallas Johnson, Adam Blair, Sika Manu, Anthony Quinn and Jeff Lima, who have re-signed with the Storm this season for the foreseeable future.

“Having re-signed so many quality players to long term deals certainly helped with my decision as I can see us having success at the Storm for a few years to come yet,” said Inglis.

“And having Craig (Bellamy) commit to us for the next five years also played a huge part. He’s been instrumental in my development from knowing very little about the game to where I am today. To have the opportunity to play under him for the next four years is very exciting.”

While Inglis is happy to be working under head coach Craig Bellamy for the next four years, Bellamy is equally as happy with Inglis’ decision to stay in Melbourne.

“This is great news, not only for Melbourne Storm but also the game of rugby league,” said Bellamy.

“He’s the kind of player that people pay their money to come through the gates and watch, and for him to commit to the Storm for the next four years is a huge boost for us and the game.

“I’m delighted he’ll be in my team for the next four years, because it would be a nightmare to have to coach against him.”

Storm CEO Brian Waldron sees the signing of Inglis to Melbourne as a real boost to the promotion of the game in Victoria.

“With a new stadium on the way it’s vital we keep the best players we have here in Melbourne for as long as we can,” said Waldron.

“We’ve re-signed our core group of players to long-term contracts this year and signing Greg up for the next four years is very exciting for us.

“While he’s obviously a high profile rugby league player in the northern states, he’s also a high profile athlete here in Melbourne and is vital to us promoting the game in this market.

“This is a real statement on Greg’s behalf that he’s committed to rugby league, and more importantly for us, the Melbourne Storm.”

____________________________________________________

Chris Couch

Media Manager

Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club

Training and Recovery

2008-08-26T07:26:00.001-07:00

[26 AUGUST, 2008]

NRL Training and travel schedule: 27.08.08 – 31.08.08

See below for Melbourne Storm's planned training schedule for the week beginning Wednesday, August 27^th. NRL Results

Please note these details are subject to change. Any changes to the training schedule will be made to the "Storm Schedule" on the Melbourne Storm website, www.melbournestorm.com.au, as soon as possible.

The squad are spending the week on the Central Coast in preparation for Saturday night's game against Newcastle. As such all training sessions are in Gosford.

Wednesday, August 27^th:
4.00pm: Skills Session (Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford)
• Signing session to follow training at approximately 5.30pm
• Craig Bellamy and Michael Maguire to address under-15 and under-17 Central Coast Academy squads after training

Thursday, August 28^th:
9.30am - 11.45am: Weights

Friday, August 29^th:
10.30am: Bus departs Star of the Sea (Terrigal) for Newcastle
12.15pm: Arrive at Crowne Plaza, Newcastle

Saturday, August 30^th:
5.30pm: STORM v KNIGHTS (EnergyAustralia Stadium)

Sunday, August 31^st:
7.30am: Recovery Session (Venue TBC)
12.35pm: Flight from Newcastle to Melbourne

____________________________________________________

Melbourne Storm Central Coast

2008-08-19T18:15:00.001-07:00

Melbourne Storm to prepare at their home away from home on Central Coast

Reigning NRL premiers the Melbourne Storm will be heading to the Central Coast for a week of training and promotions in preparation for their Round 25 clash against the Newcastle Knights at EnergyAustralia Stadium.

Hosted by the Central Coast Rugby League, the Storm will be arriving in Terrigal on Tuesday August 26^th following their game against the Penrith Panthers, before heading to Newcastle on Friday, August 29^th for their game the following day.

Storm Football Operations Manager Frank Ponissi believes the opportunity to spend some time on the Central Coast leading up to the Knights game was too good an opportunity to miss.

“Coming to the Central Coast between the Panthers and Knights games is a real win-win situation for us,” said Ponissi.

“Firstly, it means we don’t have to try and fit in flights back to Melbourne and then up to Newcastle in the five days between games, while also trying to prepare for such an important game.

“Secondly, we get to spend an extended period of time in a place we regard as our second home. With our ties to the Central Coast with the NSW VB Cup team and the junior academies, we really enjoy coming up here and helping to promote rugby league as best we can.”

With Melbourne now a game clear on top of the ladder, the time spent on the Central Coast will be crucial in the Storm’s quest to become the first team in NRL history to win the minor premiership three years in a row.

“Winning the J.J Giltinan Shield as minor premiers is really important to us,” said Ponissi.

“To be on top of the ladder after such a gruelling season is a huge achievement, and if we could do that three years in a row would show just how special this Melbourne Storm outfit is.

“Our week on the Central Coast could be the most important week in our season so far in terms of trying to create that rare piece of history.”

Not only will the public be able to attend a training session at Blue Tongue Stadium on the Wednesday, but there will be a signing session afterwards with all players in attendance including superstars of the game such as Billy Slater, Greg Inglis and Cam Smith.

The Storm coaching staff will also be doing their bit, with head coach Craig Bellamy and his assistant Michael Maguire addressing the Central Coast under-15 and under-17 Academy squads after the Wednesday training session at Bluetongue Stadium, and current New Zealand head coach Stephen Kearney will be attending the Central Coast Presentation Night at the Central Coast Leagues Club on the Thursday night.

DATE	TIME	ACTIVITY	ATTENDING
Tuesday, August 26^th	12.00pm	Arrival at Star of the Sea, Terrigal – medias interview and vision opportunity	Storm squad and coaching staff
Wednesday, August 27^th	4.00pm	Training at Bluetongue Stadium – open session for media and supporters	Storm squad and coaching staff
Wednesday, August 27^th	5.30pm	Signing Session for fans after training	Storm squad
Wednesday, August 27^th	5.30pm	Coach address to under-15 and under-17 Academy squads at Bluetongue Stadium	Craig Bellamy and Michael Maguire
Wednesday, August 27^th	6.30pm	Central Coast Presentation Night at Central Coast Leagues Club	Stephen Kearney and Frank Ponissi
Thursday, August 28^th	10:30am	Media interview opportunity at Central Coast Rugby League gym at Mt Penang	Storm squad

For more information contact:

Frank Ponissi – Melbourne Storm Football Operations Manager – 0400 040 574

Scott Wyatt – Central Coast Rugby League General Manager – 0437 977 233

____________________________________________________

Chris Couch

Media Manager

Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club

Mobile: 0407 154 836 | Ph: (03) 8412 4907 | Fax: (03) 8412 4962

Princes Park, Gate 3, Royal Parade, Carlton North VIC 3054

PO Box 141 Parkville VIC 3052

E-mail: ccouch@melbournestorm.com.au

Website: www.melbournestorm.com.au

____________________________________________________

Chris Couch

Media Manager

Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club

Princes Park, Gate 3, Royal Parade, Carlton North VIC 3054

PO Box 141 Parkville VIC 3052

E-mail: ccouch@melbournestorm.com.au

Website: www.melbournestorm.com.au

Craig Fitzgibbon Roosters Jersey

2008-08-14T06:33:00.001-07:00

Roosters stalwart Craig Fitzgibbon notches up a big milestone for the Chooks this weekend. It only seems like yesterday he was playing at the St George Dragons - but Fitzy is now a true Chook and a respected member of the Bondi squad.

Craig Fitzgibbon has recently notched up 200 games for the Sydney Roosters when he played against the North Queensland Cowboys on Saturday 2 August.

As a special momento of this game, his accomplishment was embroidered on his game day jersey reading:

Craig Fitzgibbon
200 First Grade Games
Sydney Roosters
Roosters v Cowboys
2.08.08

This piece of history can now be yours by bidding online.

This jersey is signed and comes with a letter of authenticity.

NRL Auction closes Wednesday 20 August at 5pm.

Bid now for your piece of history by clicking here

www.sydneyroosters.com.au
© Sydney Roosters Rugby League Football Club 2007

Storm Sea Eagles NRL showdown

2008-08-04T07:22:00.001-07:00

The Melbourne Storm are gearing up to meet the Sea Eagles again soon as NRL in 2008 looks set to repeat itself.

[4 August, 2008]

Storm training and travel schedule: 04.08.08 – 10.08.08

NRL Table

See below for Melbourne Storm's planned training schedule for the week beginning Monday, August 4^th.

All sessions will take place at MC Labour Park unless otherwise stated.

Monday, August 4^th:
9.30am: Skills and Conditioning Session
1:30pm - 4:30pm: Weights

Tuesday, August 5^th:
9.00am - 11.15am: Weights
1.00pm: Speed and Ballwork Session

Wednesday, August 6^th:
DAY OFF

Thursday, August 7^th:
9.45am: Ballwork Session
1.30pm: Flight from Melbourne to Sydney

Friday, August 8^th:
7.30pm: STORM v SEA EAGLES (Brookvale Oval)

Saturday, August 9^th:
8.30am: Recovery Session (Venue TBC)
12.00pm: Flight from Sydney to Melbourne

Sunday, August 10^th:
9.45am - 12.00pm: Weights

____________________________________________________

Chris Couch

Media Manager

Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club

Princes Park, Gate 3, Royal Parade, Carlton North VIC 3054

PO Box 141 Parkville VIC 3052

E-mail: ccouch@melbournestorm.com.au

Website: www.melbournestorm.com.au

NRL Storm beat Titans

2008-08-04T04:07:00.001-07:00

Melbourne Storm win against Titans gets things back on track in dominant NRL display

On a great day for the Storm when Australian coach Ricky Stuart named no fewer than10 Melbourne players in his preliminary 46-man World Cup squad, one of those players, Greg Inglis, led his teammates to an emphatic 44-4 victory over the Gold Coast Titans at Olympic Park.

Inglis’ performance underlined why he was voted the game’s best by his peers with two tries that will no doubt be added to an enormous highlights reel when his career is complete.

Not to be outdone, his centre partner Israel Folau almost stole Inglis’ thunder with a two-try first-half performance of his own that had to be seen to be believed.

The nine-tries-to-one win closed the gap on Manly’s superior points difference with the two sides to meet next Friday night in a top-of-the-table clash that will go a long way to deciding the minor premiership.

Folau’s first-half tries were almost identical with the towering 20-year-old picking up the ball 10 metres from the try-line before barging over the line with would-be defenders trying desperately to halt his momentum. They needn’t have bothered.

After Steve Turner had opened the scoring in the eighth minute, Inglis produced a piece of magic that sent the crowd into raptures. Picking up the ball 20 metres out in the middle of the ground, Inglis drifted left across the field before exploding towards the try-line, pushing defenders off with that unbelievable right-hand fend, and planting the ball over the line.

Jordan Ropana scored the Titans’ only try with three minutes to go in the half before Anthony Quinn scored the Storm’s fifth of the half in the last minute.

The scoreline could have looked a lot worse for the Gold Coast team had Cam Smith kicked straight. Unfortunately the wind played havoc with Smith’s radar, missing all five conversion attempts.

Two minuets into the second half Inglis produced his second piece of genius for the night. Halfback Cooper Cronk put up a towering bomb that Titans fullback Preston Campbell seemed to have covered. Inglis had other ideas. Running with the flight of the ball, Inglis challenged Campbell in the air, took the grab, landed and made the 10-metre dash to the try line.

Ryan Hoffman, Matt Geyer and Jeremy Smith rounded of the second half scoring for the Storm.

Smith must have changed his boots at half-time as he converted all four second-half attempts.

STORM 44 (Tries: Folau 2, Inglis 2, Turner, Quinn, Hoffman, Geyer, J Smith; Goals: Cam Smith 4) def. TITANS 4 (Try: Ropana) at Olympic Park

NZ Warriors beat Melbourne Stom

2008-07-28T06:27:00.001-07:00

Auckland NZ, Mt Smart Stadium boiled over on the weekend. The local New Zealand Warriors doing enough to beat the NRL premiers Melbourne Storm in a low scoring close affair. The win helping the Warriors in their late NRL finals charge, hoping to not only be in the Top 8 but higher up the pecking order.

Outenthused. Outworked. Outplayed. Just some of the words Storm coach Craig Bellamy used to describe Melbourne Storm’s poor performance against the New Zealand Warriors today in Auckland.

The 8-6 loss in horrible, wintry conditions at Mt Smart stadium puts a serious dent in their minor premiership hopes as they try to become the first team in NRL history to win three minor premierships in a row.

While the lop-sided penalty count didn’t help (most of them were justified), it was the Storm’s inability to hang onto the ball and complete their sets that ultimately cost them the win. In the end they completed 25 of 38 sets, but it seemed like a lot less.

“If we’d have scored at the end their today and won it would have been an injustice, we didn’t deserve to win today,” said Bellamy.

“They were a much better side than us today and we got what we deserved.

“We didn’t hang onto the ball and gave away some silly penalties which released the pressure valve for them a little bit.

“Our handling was poor. We didn’t make a lot of errors playing fancy footy, it was just dropping it in the play the ball, or one off the ruck and stuff like that.”

The first half was particularly ordinary for the Storm, and they were lucky to go in at the break only 4-0 down. A penalty against Melbourne for a strip gave New Zealand another set of six only metres from their line, and they took full advantage when winger Sonny Fai scored in the corner.

The first half could have ended far worse for the Storm. Hooker Ian Henderson crossed next to the posts after burrowing over from dummy-half, but the video referee denied the home side the try, ruling Ryan Hoffman had been impeded from making a tackle by a Warriors player.

Warriors fullback Lance Hohaia made the difference a converted try nine minutes into the second half when he slotted another gifted penalty only 20 metres out and right in front.

A smart piece of thinking by Cam Smith gave Melbourne the opportunity to get back in the game. From a 20-metre restart, instead of tapping and passing to a runner as is the norm, Smith kicked for touch, the ball bouncing well inside the touchline before rolling over at the 40-metre line. As a result the Storm was awarded the scrum feed and from there they made their move.

The Storm produced their best set of six for the game, taking the ball 50-metres up the field before Sika Manu got his hands on the ball. As he gathered the ball 10 metres out from an Adam Blair pass, the tough backrower managed to get across the try-line under the posts with two Warriors defenders hanging off his back.

Smith made no mistake with the extras.

With the scores locked at 6-6, a technically correct, but harsh decision with six minuted remaining went against the Storm that ultimately costs them the game.

Michael Crocker was penalised 40-metres out from his own try-line for not being square when playing the ball. The fact Crocker had two Warriors players hanging off him as he tried to play the ball didn’t seem to play any part in the referee’s decision.

“Obviously he probably didn’t play it square, so it’s hard to complain I suppose if we broke the rule there,” said Bellamy.

“He was just trying to ball the ball there quick and was probably a bit disoriented with exactly where his position is. It’s a tough way to lose a game, but these things happen.”

Hohaia took the kick and made no mistake.

The final few minutes were frantic with the Storm given a couple of chances to rob the Warriors of the win, but they were ultimately denied by a committed Warriors defence.

Bellamy was philosophical after the loss, although from this game onwards he expects a lot better from his team.

“For the Storm this year, when we’ve had all of our players available, this is only the third game we’ve lost,” said Bellamy.

“I’m not making excuses for them because I was disappointed with our performance, but it’s been a while since we’ve had our full side and we’ve lost a game.

“But we expect better next week, and we’ll forgive them for this one.”

STORM 6 (Try: Manu; Goal: C Smith) def. by WARRIORS 8 (Try: Fai; Goals: Hohaia 2) at Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland

Melbourne Storm Team Lineup NRL Round 18 2008

2008-07-07T22:11:00.001-07:00

The Melbourne Storm have announced their 2008 NRL side for Round 18; the following players will turn out in Melbourne colours for the dominating Rugby League club:

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has named a 17-man squad for this Monday’s Round 18 clash against Wests Tigers. The game will be played at Campbelltown Sports Stadium in Sydney from 7.00pm.

After being rested from last Sunday’s game against the Raiders, backrower Michael Crocker has been named to start, replacing Aiden Tolman who will turn out for the under-20’s.

Crocker is the only change from last week’s line-up.

NRL squad for Monday’s game:

Starting team:
1. Billy Slater
2. Steve Turner
3. Matt Geyer
4. Israel Folau
5. Anthony Quinn
6. Greg Inglis
7. Cooper Cronk
8. Jeff Lima
9. Cam Smith
10. Brett White
11. Michael Crocker
12. Ryan Hoffman
13. Dallas Johnson

Interchange:
14. Jeremy Smith, 15. Adam Blair, 16. Sika Manu, 17. Antonio Kaufusi.

Coach: Craig Bellamy.

Under-20’s squad for Monday’s game:

Starting team:

1. Gareth Widdop
2. Malo Feterika
3. Sam Joe
4. Joseph Tomane
5. Michael Faamausili
6. Luke Kelly
7. Liam Foran
8. Aiden Tolman
9. James Woolford
10. Louis Fanene
11. Kevin Proctor
12. Vili Faingaa
13. Zeb Tawha

Interchange:
14. Darcy Etrich, 15. Pulou Vaituutuu, 16. Theo Stuart, 17. Trent Walker.

Coach: Brad Arthur

NSW State of Origin Selectors to Blame?

2008-07-03T04:48:00.000-07:00

With Queensland winning the 3rd State of Origin series in succession, the path has been long and disappointing for the largest Rugby League state in the world.

With Graham Murray getting sacked after 2 failed attempts at winning State of Origin, now the best coach in the NRL, Craig Bellamy has tried hard and also fallen short - probably derailed by his own Melbourne Storm players who were playing for Queensland.

The Rugby League public including commentator for Channel 9, Phil Gould have said to stop blaming the players and the coaching staff and take a look at the selectors who failed to pick the best possible players and also fit them into the right positions.

Laurie Daley, Bob Fulton, Bob McCarthy, Geoff Gerard are the current selectors and certainly deserve to be looked at after several years of failure.

Concerns are around the fact that Craig Bellamy might want to walk away from State of Origin coaching as it takes away from his focus on the Melbourne Storm who suffer during the commitments of State of Origin midway through the NRL season.

NRL Melbourne Storm Titans Gold Coast

2008-06-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

WHO: Melbourne Storm v Gold Coast Titans
WHAT: Round 13 of the 2008 Telstra Premiership season
WHERE: Skilled Park, Gold Coast
WHEN: Monday, June 9^th @ 7.00pm
ON TV: Fox Sports 2 LIVE – 7.00pm
CHECK IT OUT: Melbourne Storm’s website with all the latest stats, profiles, updates, schedule and training times, alerts, news etc…. www.melbournestorm.com.au

IN BRIEF
Melbourne were at their clinical best against an under-strength Bulldogs outfit, smashing the visitors 46-0 at Olympic Park to keep at the head of the NRL table.

The Titans had a rough day at the office against the Sharks last week, going down 30-14 to make it three losses from their past four games.

FAST FACTS
• Gold Coast has won all six games at Skilled Park this year
• Melbourne has lost two games on the road this year

KEY MATCH UP
With so many young, inexperienced players in the Storm line-up, star halfback Cooper Cronk will need to call on all of his guile and experience to guide his team around the paddock. He’ll need to demonstrate what it takes to be a professional rugby league player, and how to go about preparing for a big game like this one. His captaincy this weekend will be vital to the team’s chances.

Cooper’s clash against Titan’s halfback Scott Prince looks like a beauty. Prince has arguably been the form halfback of the NRL in 2008 and he was desperately unlucky not to make the Queensland squad, particularly in Game I. He has all the tools to be the game’s best halfback; he’s creative with the hands, has a great kicking game, and can run the ball to the line and score a try himself as well. He has been a late call-up to the Queensland squad given injury concerns over Johnathan Thurston and Darren Lockyer, but if he plays he needs to be watched closely.

HEAD-TO-HEAD
Total: Played: 1, Storm: 1, Titans: 0
At Skilled Park: First meeting at this venue

FOR AND AGAINST 2008
Points for: Storm: 234, Titans: 256
Points against: Storm: 133, Titans: 215
Tries for: Storm: 40, Titans: 45
Points differential: Storm: +101, Titans: +41

LAST ROUND MATCHES:
Storm def. Bulldogs 46-0 @ Olympic Park, Melbourne
Titans def. by Sharks 30-12 @ Toyota Park, Sydney

LAST CLASH

YEAR	RESULT	VENUE
2007	Storm def. Titans 50-6 @	Olympic Park

THE STORM STORY SO FAR
WORLD CLUB CHALLENGE: STORM 4 (Try: Hoffman) def. by RHINOS 11 (Try: Donald; Goals: Sinfield 3; Field Goal: Sinfield) at Elland Road, Leeds
ROUND 1: STORM 32 (Tries: Slater 3, Johnson, Tagataese; Goals: C. Smith 5, Turner) def. WARRIORS 18 (Tries: Vatuvei 2, Ropati; Goals: Witt 3) at Telstra Dome, Melbourne
ROUND 2: STORM 16 (Tries: Aitken, White, Falou; Goals: C. Smith 2) def. by SHARKS 17 (Tries: Kearney, Gallen, Simmons; Goals: Covell 2; Field Goals: Kimmorley) at Olympic Park, Melbourne
ROUND 3: Storm (Try: Slater; Goal: C. Smith) def. by ROOSTERS (Try: Kenny-Dowell; Goals: FitzGibbon 3) at Sydney Football Stadium
ROUND 4: STORM 28 (Tries: Quinn 3, Folau, Hoffman; Goals: Smith 4) def. BRONCOS 8 (Tries: Robinson, Stagg) at Olympic Park, Melbourne
ROUND 5: STORM 26 (Tries: Slater 2, Inglis, Quinn, Hoffman; Goals: Smith 3) def. SEA EAGLES 4 (Try: Barney) at Olympic Park
ROUND 6: STORM 23 (Tries: Chambers, Turner, Slater, Folau; Goals: C. Smith 3; Field Goal: Cronk) def. RAIDERS 16 (Tries: Best, Plum, Purtell; Goals: Carney 2) at Canberra Stadium
ROUND 7: STORM 12 (Tries: Inglis, Folau; Goals: C. Smith 2) def. COWBOYS 10 (Tries: Williams 2; Goals: Thurston) at Dairy Farmer’s Stadium
ROUND 8: BYE
ROUND 9: STORM 18 (Tries: Folau 2, Quinn; Goals: C. Smith 3) def. KNIGHTS 4 (Try: Mullen) at Olympic Park, Melbourne
ROUND 10: STORM 12 (Tries: Chambers, Manu; Goals: Smith, Turner) def. by DRAGONS 36 (Tries: Nightingale 2, B. Morris, J Morris, Lett, Soward; Goals: Soward 6) at ANZ Stadium
ROUND 12: STORM 15 (Tries: Chambers, J. Smith; Goals: C. Smith 2, Field Goals: Cronk) def. RABBITOHS 12 (Tries: Vagana 2; Goals: Luke) at Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford
ROUND 13: STORM 46 (Tries: Geyer 2, C. Smith, Folau, Turner, J. Smith, Crocker, Cronk; Goals: C. Smith 7) def. BULLDOGS 0 at Olympic Park

2008 TRY SCORERS (STORM)
Slater 7, Folau 7, Quinn 5, Chambers 3, J. Smith 2, Turner 2, Geyer 2, Hoffman 2, Inglis 2, Johnson, Tagataese, Aitken, White, Manu, C. Smith, Crocker, Cronk

2008 GOAL SCORERS (STORM)
C. Smith 32, Turner 2, J. Smith

2008 FIELD GOAL SCORERS (STORM)
Cronk 2

2008 POINTSCORERS (STORM)
C Smith 70, Slater 28, Folau 28, Quinn 20, Chambers 12, J. Smith 10, Geyer 8, Turner 8, Hoffman 8, Inglis 8, Cronk 6, Johnson 4, Tagataese 4, Aitken 4, White 4, Manu 4, Crocker 4

MELBOURNE STORM MEDIBANK PRIVATE INJURY UPDATE
Aidan Guerra (ankle): 1 week
Danny Vaughan (knee): season
Ben MacDougall (knee): season
Dane Nielsen (shoulder): season
Will Chambers (knee): season

THE STORM AHEAD
Round 14: BYE
Round 15: Saturday, June 21st v Cowboys @ Olympic Park, 7.30pm
Round 16: Sunday, June 29th v Eels @ Parramatta Stadium, 3.00pm
Round 17: Sunday, July 6th v Raiders @ Olympic Park, 2.00pm
Round 18: Monday, July 14th v Wests Tigers @ Campbelltown Sports Stadium, 7.00pm
Round 19: Saturday, July 19th v Dragons @ Olympic Park, 5.30pm
Round 20: Sunday, July 27th v Warriors @ Mt Smart Stadium, 2.00pm (AEST)

TELSTRA PREMIERSHIP LADDER

POSITION	CLUB	POINTS
1	Roosters	18
2	Storm	18
3	Sea Eagles	16
4	Broncos	16
5	Titans	16
6	Panthers	16
7	Sharks	16
8	Tigers	14
9	Dragons	12
10	Knights	12
11	Raiders	12
12	Eels	10
13	Warriors	12
14	Bulldogs	10
15	Cowboys	8
16	Rabbitohs	4

SQUAD FOR MONDAY'S GAME:

Starting team:
1. TBC
2. Brett Anderson
3. Joseph Tomane
4. Jeremy Smith
5. Sam Joe
6. Russell Aitken
7. Cooper Cronk
8. Jeff Lima
9. Matt Geyer
10. Scott Anderson
11. Sam Tagataese
12. Antonio Kaufusi
13. Sika Manu

Interchange:
14. Liam Foran, 15. Kevin Proctor, 16. Adam Blair, 17. Aiden Tolman, 18. Lucas Miller, 19. Clifford Manua, 20. Sinbad Kali.

Coach: Craig Bellamy.

NRL being challenged by AFL in NSW, Gold Coast

2008-05-25T03:29:00.000-07:00

The NRL has come under threat with the expansion of the AFL into the heartland of Western Sydney and the Gold Coast as the Victorian code seeks to expand in 20011 and 2012. Boosted by strong support for the Sydney Swans in NSW and the largest population in Australia, the AFL thinks the NSW market is ripe for the picking and is targeting junior levels to boost its popularity.

In it's 100th year the NRL is contending with dwindling crowds as their crowded Sydney market of 9 NRL teams each fight for their sector and try in vein each week to bring larger crowds through the doors. With such a strong television product, the Rugby League and NRL tournament screen through Channel 9 and Foxtel - with every single team game on television, many fans choose to watch their team play from home.

The NRL has offered 8 million dollars to any team who relocates and the likes of John Singleton wait with open arms with venues such as the Bluetounge Stadium on the Central Coast, ready to snap up a struggling team looking to move its base into bigger heartland. While the NRL Results and over NRL Table position might be consistently closer each year - what is the cost of Sydney teams eventually dwindling and perishing forever?

Can the Wests Tigers rule again?

2008-03-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

The 2005 NRL Season seems worlds away for the Wests Tigers. Champions of the premiership, their NRL Results left other teams in their wake. The playing roster read like a who's who of Rugby League. Benji Marshall, Pat Richards, Scott Prince and Scott Sattler. This list goes on. Fast Forward to 2008 and while the Tigers got off to a winning start against the struggling Dragons team - do they still have the Rugby League charm to keep winning - week in, week out on the footy field?

Coach Tim Sheens, a smart operator that has been around the traps - knows what he is doing and certainly recruited well, but have the Tigers won the only premiership they can for next decade or so? 2008 will be an interesting year, the Tigers have missed the semi finals each year since making and winning the big one, nobody's sure what else is in store.

NRL Tipping Gets Hard

2008-03-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

NRL Tipping is proving almost impossible as Round 2 of the NRL got underway last night for 2008. The first game between the Bulldogs and Souths proving tough to tip as the NRL Results went the way of the Bulldogs, getting their first competition points of the 2008 footy season over the more fancied Souths forward pack.

In the other game, the Broncos got over the Roosters when many though that the Broncos would be too injured to compete. Peter Wallace was the star, the former Panthers man guiding the Broncos nicely and helping them home.

Can Penrith Panthers improve NRL Results?

2008-03-20T22:11:00.000-07:00

They promised so much before the 2008 NRL season got underway, but the Penrith Panthers after only 1 week of NRL Results have quickly been slashed in betting for the wooden spoon and remain distant outsiders in the Rugby League world. Coach Matthew Elliott trying every possible solution to their discipline problem but the Panthers seem intent on fighting with the referees and doing everything to hurt their cause in 2008?

Can they turn it around?

This week they face the Canberra Raiders at CUA Stadium and will have the best chance yet to get their scores into the positive and get over the top of a lowly ranked NRL opposing team.

NRL Power Rankings

2008-03-18T20:28:00.001-07:00

www.nrlnews.com

The NRL Power Rankings for 2008 are underway with 'The Grubber' reporting on all the NRL Results for this 2008 football season.

Each week, every single team is analyzed and discussed and their actual weekly position charted against the competiting clubs. The actual NRL ladder doesn't take into account injures, form and referee decisions that may have cost your team.

With the Grubber, he weighs it all up and gives you an accurate account of where your team is placed and how they are looking overall in the Telstra Premiership Season for 2008.

NRL Results for Round 1 2008

2008-03-16T03:45:00.001-07:00

The scores have come in and the NRL Results are almost completed, we simply await the NZ Warriors and Melbourne Storm Rugby League match tomorrow night to see how everyone sites after the first round of footy for 2008.

Cronulla Sharks impressed many with their solid upset win at Brookvale Oval to defeat the Manly Sea Eagles who were much fancied after making last years Grand Final.

In other NRL news, the Panthers fell badly to the Brisbane Broncos after promising so much this year and will have coach Matt Elliott very worried about the future.

Player issues take headlines

2008-03-07T00:00:00.002-08:00

NRL player saga's and misbehavior has taken the main headlines in newspapers as the likes of Jarryd Hayne, Mark Gasnier and co take centre stage and join the likes of Willie Mason in terms of Rugby League notoriety.

After a shoot out in Kings Cross, the Parramatta Eels have put their club first and footy second as they disregard NRL Results in the first instance and ban Hayne and 2 other League players from their Round 1 clash against the Bulldogs in Sydney.

Coach Michael Hagan and the senior players at Parra backed the move and Hayne will join the premier league ranks for the first hit out and should join the team in Round 2 for their away game in NZ against the Warriors.

NRL Results from Trial Games

2008-02-24T01:32:00.000-08:00

NRL Results are in from this weekends trial games with some interesting surprises for some Rugby League clubs. The Cronulla Sharks were belted by 44-0 with Souths running riot over the shire boys. The Eels lost to the Panthers and the Canberra Raiders upset the Broncos. The other big game was the Foundation Cup, with Willie Mason trotting out for the Roosters and having a huge impact. The Willie Mason tackle on Todd Payten knocking the big prop out and sending him to hospital!

NRL Trial Results

2008-02-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

nrl.com.au

NRL Results from last nights preseason trial between the Parramatta Eels and Penrith Panthers is as follows: The Panthers through 2 late tries to Luke Rooney managed to skip ahead and win the Rugby League trial game in Albury 30 points to 28.

Jarrod Sammut having a strong game at half back and coach Matt Elliott heaping praise on players for a good showing.

Click Here for full report from NRLNews.com

Trial form impressive

2008-02-16T14:12:00.001-08:00

Form from the first weekend of NRL Trials has been impressive, with a good standard being shown by the Rugby League teams on display. The Panthers had a solid hit out against Erina in a 30 minute warm up game and the Broncos proved too strong for the Cowboys up in Rockhampton. For a more comprehensive review and score updates from all the Trials and pre-season action, visit NRL News at www.nrlnews.com

Wins for Storm and Knights

2008-02-15T18:15:00.000-08:00

After the completion of the first two trial games in 2008, NRL results are in with the Storm proving too good for the Sea Eagles in Gosford, again accounting for the northern boys with a heavy win to the tune of 46 points.

The Knights also notched up a win in a gutsy display in New Zealand. Defeating the Warriors after the locals were ahead for most of the match. In both games the Rugby League was impressive considering it's early season and their looks to be good promise for the winners this year with the Storm sending out a warning very early in the piece.

Melbourne Storm name 2008 trial team

2008-02-12T00:09:00.000-08:00

The melbourne storm have named a preliminary squad for their trial game against the manly sea eagles in gosford. Coach Craig Bellamy tweaking his team with various combination at the hope of even better NRL Results in 2008.

Using 2 different Rugby League sides for the first 2 quarters of this trial, from there coach Bellamy will alternate various combinations of players where he sees fit. Captain Cameron Smith (seemingly called Cam smith everywhere these days) will start the match and provide experience for the younger team as they take on Manly in the Gosford Rugby LEague trial game.

Who will top NRL Results in 2008

2008-02-10T15:13:00.000-08:00

Many experts are starting to tip their Top 8 sides for the upcoming NRL Rugby League season. As always NRL Results are expected to be close and picking the best football side is always tough. Melbourne will continue to be the benchmark, however smart buying by the Brisbane Broncos and other clubs will see them challenge hard for the Premiership in 2008. NRL kicks off in 3.5 weeks time.

NRL Results

2008-02-09T20:31:00.000-08:00

As always, NRL Results are critical for the 2008 NRL Premiership. To get your updates and latest information on results, scores and stories - be sure and visit NRL News for the most comprehensive and personalized reviews of Rugby League and NRL this year.

nrl.com.au talks South Sydney in 2008 NRL

2008-02-08T02:56:00.000-08:00

By NRL News (www.nrlnews.com)

Today South Sydney headed by Russell Crowe and Peter Holmes a Court signed a 10 year agreement with the Stadium Australia Group (ANZ Stadium) formerly Telstra - to call the Olympic Ground base for the future ahead.

After the Redfern Oval redevelopment fell through, Souths have moved to link with ANZ Stadium to get better facilities and give their fans the best experience for NRL in 2008

NRL News the first unofficial information source.

2008-02-05T02:57:00.001-08:00

Second only to NRL.com.au - NRL News is the first unofficial information source for daily NRL News and information. As the largest private Rugby League website online, NRL News covers the game from a review perspective and discusses the major events - including editorials and insight.

Get the full picture, input your feedback in the forums or on any article and get the full flow of Rugby League info.

NRL News and NRL.com.au

NRL.com.au is it Cronulla's turn?

2008-02-01T01:15:00.000-08:00

by www.NRLnews.com

Is it finally Cronullas turn to win their maiden NRL Premiership? Penny-less since 1967 the Cronulla Sharks have been unable to take Rugby Leagues biggest prize. They have gone close on many occasions, but luck has seemingly escaped them.

With Rugby League smart man, Ricky Stuart now onboard and with a year under his belt at the Southern club - he should prove a good asset in guiding them towards the big prize.

Playing talent isn't exactly world beating, but they have a good mix of consistent men who on their day could shake things up.

Will 2008 be Cronulla's NRL breakthrough? Be sure and visit NRL News (www.nrlnews.com) to keep your eyes on the action each day.

Willie says Top 4 for Roosters in NRL

2008-01-25T01:39:00.000-08:00

New recruit Willie Mason has promised Roosters fans they can make the NRL top 4 in 2008, as they have the playing talent, the fitness and the coaching brains to go all the way. Mason said barring injury, they should be a constant force and he has been impressed with the Rugby League being played by the likes of Anthony Tupou and Anthony Minichiello who are back to full health in time for the NRL season kick off which is just weeks away.

Boasting a hugely talented squad worth a fortune - the Roosters must perform or risk seeing heads roll.

www.nrl.com.au

2008-01-24T11:02:00.000-08:00

As the official site for NRL - the nrl.com.au needs to alter their format to become more user friendly to Rugby League Internet readers. Some of the interfaces in use and 'overbaring' graphics tend to stop readers from quickly getting the latest NRL News and articles in a simple fashion.

Regularly falling behind leading Rugby League sites - as the main source of information, nrl.com.au really needs a redesign with simple in mind.

Additional news and reporting can be found at the NRL News website - www.nrlnews.com

Can the Sharks ever win the NRL

2008-01-24T02:27:00.000-08:00

Will Cronulla ever win a comp? The NRL team from the Shire have been trying since 1967. Slugging hard every year, going close a few times but never tasting success. Rugby League can be a brutal game and very unforgiving; so the feeling from the Sharks would have been made worse when the likes of the Melbourne Storm and Broncos won the big one so quickly after entering the comp. Even the Knights who won their first Rugby League premiershp in 1997, only took a decade to win their first title.

Boasting some good players over the years, as well as coaches - the moons just never seem to aline for the Cronulla Sutherland side. Maybe 2008 might be a different story, still a young side - Ricky Stuart and his structured ways might be their best bet.

NRL just months away

2008-01-23T18:07:00.000-08:00

We look forward to discussing all the NRL issues and review all the games as they happen in the 2008 NRL Season. The quality of Rugby League games seems to get better every year - faster speed, more highly skilled and more crowds - it makes for a great atmosphere.

Kick-off for this season is in March and pre-season trials are only 1 week away. So get your supporter gear together and keep you eye on NRL news for all the latest information and discussion on the Greatest Game of All - NRL

www.nrl.com.au

2008-01-23T12:00:00.000-08:00

NRLcom.au - preseason Rugby League games are only a week away, the biggest match of the early 2008 season being the Rabbitohs vs Leeds Rhinos in the USA - attempting to stake a bigger following for the game of NRL Rugby League. The Bunnies continue to impress as their new owners build a club that is consistent, growing on and off the field. The Bunnies made the finals in 2007 and look good enough to do the same in 2008.

NRL season kick off is mid-march - be sure and get behind your team now!

nrl.com.au

2008-01-23T02:42:00.000-08:00

for www.nrl.com.au news today; the new stadium in Robina is discussed - visit NRL News for the full story on how the success for the Gold Coast Titans club is so important for future NRL expansion. The game is healing since the Super League war and continued crowd and TV growth means the chances of more teams in the decade ahead are good.

NRLnews.com reports daily on NRL information and brings you the latest and most detailed football editorials.

Fattys son coming to NRL soon

2008-01-19T21:18:00.001-08:00

The Fatman or should we say the son of Fatty Vautin is set to become an NRL Rugby League star in his own right. Matt Vautin at the young age of 17 has been picked up by the Gold Coast Titans and will join their club roster this year.

2008 might be a bit early for Vautin Jnr to actually play NRL, but he expects to build his defence this year and who knows, if footy injuries strike - the young Vautin could be thrust into the NRL spotlight at some stage during the year.

www.nrl.com.au

NRL.com.au

2008-01-18T10:53:00.000-08:00

NRL.com.au is one source to get your daily Rugby League information - however other NRL sites such as NRL News provide daily articles and fan feedback about all things Rugby League. As 2008 nears, the internet makes getting all your League information quick and easy - so take your football to the next level and check out NRL News Rugby League at www.nrlnews.com

NRL News talks Warriors

2008-01-18T02:33:00.001-08:00

At nrlnews.com today, Stacey Jones rejoins the Warriors for their quest for NRL Rugby league glory in 2008. In a coaching role this time, Jones heads back to his homeland after time in the UK Super league tournament.

His main role is as a halves coach, to assist the likes of Michael Witt and Grant Rovelli in guiding the team around the park and giving them a creative edge over opposing halves.

Jones will report to head coach Ivan Cleary in his role at the Warriors.

NRL.com.au

2008-01-17T12:10:00.000-08:00

In 2008, the NRL Rugby League should be massive. The Titans are now settled on the Gold Coast and the majority of teams from Australia and New Zealand boast quality player rosters and the best coaching staffs.

Fitness, Training, Skills and even the back offices are improving as NRL clubs fight to remain competitive. Even club websites and their value is rising, South Sydney offering 'South Sydney TV' to their fans and coach Jason Taylor reading team lists live to members in 2008.

For your regular updates on NRL (nrlcomau) be sure and visit NRL News for daily updated articles and fan feedback. It's your No.1 NRL Rugby League Source in 2008.

NRL kickoff nears

2008-01-15T13:03:00.000-08:00

The 2008 kick off of the "nrlcomau" football year is nearing. For all the latest NRL NEWS be sure and visit www.nrlnews.com for daily updated NRL articles, Rugby League talk and fan discussion. As an independent outlet for Rugby League the NRL information from this website is much more raw and unbiased when compared to regular newspapers and other online NRL sources.

nrl.com.au

2008-01-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

If you are a keen NRL fan, for the latest and most recent NRL Rugby League news - in additional to nrl.com.au you can visit NRL News for unbiased and regular reporting on all the League action on offer from the NRL each week in the winter months.

NRL News was established in 2006 and has become one of the most comprehensive resources online for Rugby League information and NRL updates. We look forward to seeing you and hearing your feedback soon.