Leigh Leopards Advance to Preliminary Final After Beating Wakefield Trinity

 The Melbourne Storm secured a hard-fought 22-14 victory over the Cronulla Sharks in an exciting NRL clash at AAMI Park in Melbourne. The hosts maintained their composure in front of a home crowd, capitalising on key moments to seal the win in fine weather conditions.

Melbourne Storm Edge Sharks 22-14 in Thrilling NRL Semi Final Battle [NRL Photo]

Melbourne opened the scoring early when Will Warbrick crossed the line in the 6th minute, setting the tone for the match. Jahrome Hughes followed with a try in the 15th minute to give the Storm early control. Ryan Papenhuyzen extended the lead with a 35th-minute effort, helping Melbourne to a 16-8 advantage at halftime.

The Sharks responded through Sione Katoa, who scored in the 11th and 29th minutes to keep his side within striking distance. Despite Katoa’s double, Cronulla struggled to convert their opportunities, missing all three conversion attempts, which ultimately proved costly.

Melbourne’s Nick Meaney was reliable with the boot, landing two of his four conversion attempts and adding a penalty goal in the 65th minute. His accuracy provided valuable points and kept the Sharks at bay during a tense second half.

Cronulla fought to stay in the contest, with Nicholas Hynes kicking a penalty goal in the 58th minute. KL Iro added a late try in the 80th minute to narrow the gap, but it was too late to turn the tide as Melbourne’s defense held strong.

The decisive moment came when Xavier Coates scored in the 74th minute, giving the Storm breathing room and extinguishing any hopes of a Cronulla comeback. Melbourne’s ability to capitalise on key opportunities and maintain defensive discipline proved the difference.

With this result, the Storm continue their strong campaign as they eye the finals, while the Sharks will look to regroup and sharpen their goal-kicking after costly missed conversions. The match highlighted Melbourne’s resilience and Cronulla’s fighting spirit in a spirited NRL encounter.

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Leigh Leopards Advance to Preliminary Final After Beating Wakefield Trinity