Storm are back at home against Wests Tigers, but have entered into uncharted waters having lost their seventh straight game for the first time in their existence.
Last week, they put up a strong fight against the Dolphins to hold a 10-4 lead at the break, but as has been a pattern this season, were run down in the second to lose 28-10.
Lifting for their their coach Craig Bellamy, who has been fighting a private health battle, the side showed good signs in the first half, with Sua Faalogo once again scoring a try-of-the-year contender. They also equalled their record of three home-grown talents on the field at the same time, with Faalogo joined by fellow Victorian juniors Hugo Peel and Trent Toelau.
They will be aiming to play their good football for longer against a Wests Tigers side that were completely outclassed last week by Cronulla.
After the game, coach Benji Marshall expressed his deep disappointment not only in the 52-10 result, but what he felt was a consistent lack of effort across the board throughout the 80 minutes.
His words will no doubt spark a response in his players this week who will want to climb back into the top four on the ladder.
Team News
Storm: Halfback Jahrome Hughes has been named to return from a head knock in a major boost for the struggling Storm. Hughes comes in for Tyran Wishart, who suffered an ankle injury last week. No other changes to the starting side but young playmaker Stanley Huen has been added to the bench for a potential debut.
Wests Tigers: Benji Marshall has rejigged his backline after the outside backs endured a tough afternoon in Cronulla last week. With Jahream Bula still sidelined with a shoulder injury, Heath Mason steps into the No.1 jumper and Sunia Turuva moves to the wing. Patrick Herbert replaces Starford Toa in the centres and Jock Madden steps in at halfback after Adam Doueihi dislocated his shoulder last week. Back-rower Kai Pearce-Paul has been named to make his return from a concussion, replacing the injured Samuela Fainu (foot). Mavrik Geyer has been named on the six-man bench for a potential club debut, while emerging playmaker Javon Andrews has also been listed in the reserves.
Stat Attack
The Storm have won their last eight games against the Tigers.
Wests Tigers have not won at AAMI Park since 2018.
Storm winger Will Warbrick has scored six tries in three games against the Tigers.
Tigers forward Royce Hunt will make his 100th NRL appearance.
Storm fullback Sua Fa’alogo has scored 11 tries in nine games this season.
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.