The Warriors will head to Melbourne on Saturday believing they have a real shot at beating the minor premiers.
Everyone will be tipping Melbourne to win again next week but I am going to back the Warriors. They are such a powerful, talent-laden team and have such strong belief. They have proven they can reach the second grand final this year with some very strong performances and if they beat the Storm, the Warriors would certain earn it.
They are one of only two teams to beat the Storm on their home turf in 2011 (an 18-14 win) and has won exactly fifty percent of all games against the Melbourne since since their inception in 2008. Only Canterbury has a better record against the Victorian outfit.
Key to any premiership win – or any successfully rugby league team – is key players in the ‘spine’ of the side, namely fullback, five-eighth, halfback and hooker. The Warriors can boast this with Kevin Locke in career best form at fullback, James Maloney’s sound general kicking game, reliable goal kicking and try scoring ability, Shaun Johnson’s electric running and attacking skills and either Aaron Heremia or Lance Hohaia doing a great job at hooker.
One of the Warriors’ most famous victories came in the first week of the playoffs in 2008. Finishing eighth and playing minor premiers Melbourne at Olympic Park, the Auckland side were trailing by two points with time almost over until a length of the field try ensured a 18-15 victory. I had the fortune of watching this at the stadium and it was one of sweetest moments I can recall in my Warrior-watching days.
Melbourne can point to another strong season this year but it only takes one game to undo all that good work. Just ask West Tigers coach Tim Sheens. Actually he may still be angry, don’t ask him yet.
The Warriors to win by four.
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