NRL Round 9 Preview and Prediction - St. George Illawarra Dragons v Melbourne Storm @ WIN Stadium

St. George Illawarra Dragons v Melbourne Storm @ WIN Stadium

Preview - We get a blockbuster here with the top of the table clash between the Dragons and the Storm as the NRL's Top 2 lock horns at WIN Stadium in Wollongong. The Dragons suffered just their second loss of the season last week, however they lost no admirers going down in Golden Point to the Roosters despite losing Gareth Widdop in the first half with injury. The Storm was not quite at their best, however managed to come from 8-0 against the Warriors to grind out a 20-14 victory to leapfrog the Dragons at the top of the competition ladder. 

History - The Storm have an incredibly dominant record overall against the Dragons, with 23 victories to just 9 losses. Last season the Dragons took advantage of the Storm, missing their Origin stars, by grinding out a 20-10 victory at WIN Stadium. Melbourne has won 6 of the past 9 clashes including 3 of the past 4.

St. George Illawarra Dragons’ Scouting Report - The Dragons have named Kurt Mann at Number 6 to replace their inspirational captain Gareth Widdop who is out for 6 weeks with a knee injury. Josh Dugan made a sound return from injury at fullback last week and will be looking to further press his Origin claims this afternoon. 

Melbourne Storm Scouting Report - The Storm are back at full strength for this clash with Cameron Munster named in the Number 6 jumper after a couple of weeks coming off the interchange bench. Josh Addo-Carr is starting to display his full potential on the wing with his speed and finishing ability, capable of filling the hole left by the departed Marika Koribete. 

Verdict - Storm by 1-6 in a low scoring game

I think the loss of Gareth Widdop is huge for the Dragons coming into this game. I would have fancied them to get the best of the Storm at home with Widdop, however I think the Dragons’ attack will suffer greatly without their in-form skipper. The Storm have been a bit patchy the past few weeks, however back at full strength they are probably the most consistent side in the competition. I still expect the Dragons to be very physical and hard to beat at home and I expect both defences to get right on top of this game. I wouldn't be surprised if 3 tries is enough in this game in what will be a war of attrition from start to finish.