Junior Rep Report: Round 20

Taking on the Canberra Raiders in Round 20 of the Jersey Flegg competition, Storm succumbed to a 34-18 defeat on the road on Saturday.

The Raiders wasted no time in hitting the ground running, Jake Clysdale finding his way to the line in the first five minutes and Regan Carr then extending their lead with two quickfire tries in the 17th and 20th minute.

Caleb Garvie and Jaxon Lavender crossed the line for the Raiders before halftime to make the scoreline read 30-0 and leave the Storm with a mountain to climb in the second half.

Despite the scoreline, Storm showed positive signs coming into the second half, Angus Hinchey finally breaking through the Raiders’ defence to score in the 38th minute.

Despite a spirited effort from the Storm, the Raiders replied with a try in the 41st minute through Atini Tuialii.

Storm didn't stop running hard however, Amare Milford sprinting to the line and bulldozing over Raiders’ defence in the 51st minute.

Stanley Huen then added another try for Storm with a solo effort to the line, swerving past several Raiders defenders to make the final score 34-18.

Despite the disappointment of the first half, Storm outscored the hosts three tries to one in the second stanza, ensuring they took some positives out of the contest heading into next weekend's competition wide bye.

Storm will now look to rest and reset before suiting up against the Dragons at AAMI Park in a fortnight's time.

Originally published on melbournestorm.com.au