After holding on to top spot since Round 4, the Panthers finally relinquished their grip last weekend and will be out to bounce back against the Storm.<\/p>\n
Losses to the Warriors and Roosters in consecutive weeks have left the Panthers vulnerable to potentially even dropping out of the top four if results go against them.<\/p>\n
The Cowboys’ loss to the Eels has left the door slightly ajar for the Storm, who face a torrid run home against the Panthers, Broncos and Sharks but won’t be simply rolling over in the run to the finish.<\/p>\n
With so much at stake for both clubs this promises to be a cracking encounter at AAMI Park as the Storm play their last game on home turf for 2026.<\/p>\n
Team News<\/p>\n
Storm: Captain Harry Grant has come through Wednesday’s final training session and will line up against the Panthers. Tyran Wishart moves to the bench. Joe Chan also goes to the bench to accommodate the return of centre Jack Howarth (shoulder). Trent Toelau has been handed the No.7 jersey with youngster Hayden Watson making way. Jack Hetherington has been added to the six-man interchange in the 24-hour update.<\/p>\n
Panthers: Young gun Casey McLean lines up for his first game since Round 22 having overcome a hand injury. The 20-year-old’s return comes at an opportune time with Paul Alamoti suffering a hamstring injury against the Roosters. Back-rower Luke Garner remained in the squad in Wednesday’s 24-hour update and is line for a call-up to the bench having made his return to action through NSW Cup last weekend. Jack Cole has been added to the interchange in place of Jaxen Edgar.<\/p>\n
Stat Attack<\/p>\n
The Storm have won nine from 10 against the Panthers at AAMI Park.
\nPanthers winger Brian To\u2019o has scored nine tries in his last nine games against the Storm.
\nThe Storm have won their last nine games immediately following a bye.
\nIvan Cleary will reach the milestone of 500 games as NRL coach.
\nStorm winger Moses Leo has scored five tries in his last four games at AAMI Park.<\/p>\n