Munster Magic Lifts Storm Over Eels in Tight Clash
Last night’s showdown between the Melbourne Storm and the Parramatta Eels wasn’t just another regular-season fixture — it was a gritty, down-to-the-wire battle that kept fans guessing until the final whistle. And in the absence of Jahrome Hughes, it was Cameron Munster who well and truly stepped up, guiding the Storm to a tough 16-10 win at CommBank Stadium.
Now, this wasn’t a pretty game by any means. Both teams struggled with execution at times — especially with goal-kicking — but the intensity was undeniable. The Eels, sitting in 15th place, showed they’re far better than their ladder position suggests, especially with Mitch Moses back steering the ship at halfback. They made Melbourne work hard for every metre, but when the match needed a difference-maker, Munster delivered.
With Hughes sidelined due to a shoulder injury, Munster took full control of the Storm's attack. Wearing the No.6 jersey, he was involved in all three of Melbourne’s tries. He set up the first with a clever grubber kick that led to a repeat set, then followed it up with a pinpoint bomb that Eliesa Katoa leapt onto to open the scoring.
Also Read:- LA Galaxy Dismantles Club Tijuana in a Thrilling Leagues Cup Clash
- Carlos Correa Returns to Houston in Shocking Deadline Reunion
Later in the first half, Munster again injected himself into the play, poking through the line just enough to disrupt the Eels’ defence. That small moment opened the door for Harry Grant to dart out of dummy-half and send Tui Kamikamica over the line.
With the scores locked at 10-10 and just ten minutes to go, it was Munster again who stood tall. After a powerful, barnstorming run from Stefano Utoikamanu, who shook off four defenders, Grant took advantage and found Munster, who launched another high kick. Xavier Coates soared above Zac Lomax in the corner to grab the match-winner — a moment of sheer athleticism that sealed the deal for Melbourne.
Ryan Papenhuyzen returned from a calf injury but had a rough night with the boot, nailing just one of four conversions. It didn’t cost them this time, but it’s something Melbourne will want to fix quickly, especially with tough matches against Brisbane, Penrith, and the Roosters still to come.
On the other side, the Eels had nothing to be ashamed of. Joash Papalii and Josh Addo-Carr were bright spots, and young gun Charlie Guymer scored a beauty. Coach Jason Ryles praised his side’s improvement, even saying, “I honestly think we lost that game, they didn’t beat us.”
It was a battle of grit, smarts, and resilience — and Munster was at the heart of it all.
Read More:
0 Comments