Junior Rep Report: Round 8

Despite a second half comeback that saw them score four tries inside the final 20-minutes of play, it wasn’t to be for Storm’s Jersey Flegg side with the U21s contingent edged out by the Wests Tigers 28-24 in Round 8. 

After Storm prevailed 28-18 at Seabrook Reserve in Round 5, Storm couldn’t make it two wins over the Tigers inside a month, with the Tigers producing a strong first half that ultimately left Storm too much work to do in the second half. 

Despite the 24-4 scoreline heading into the sheds, Storm refused to drop their heads or go down without a fight, springing to life in the second half to almost steal victory at the death.

Storm’s second half scoring spree was started by Matthew Hill, the speedster this time rolling his sleeves up and muscling his way past several Tigers defenders in the 51st minute. 

Returning from injury, Mitchell Jennings sent a reminder of the danger he poses on the edge, slipping out of two tackles to score an individual try just a few minutes later. 

Despite only six-minutes remaining in the contest and trailing by 14-points, Storm refused to go away, tries to Liam Williams and Hill in quick succession setting up the grandstand finish. 

Despite a late push, time would ultimately be the enemy for Storm, the Tigers holding on for the four-point victory. 

Storm will look to bounce back when they return home to face the Sydney Roosters at Seabrook Reserve on Saturday. 

Originally published on melbournestorm.com.au