Cameron Smith v Robbie Farah
Melbourne Storm hooker Cameron Smith is set to line up against opposite number Robbie Farah for his side’s crucial clash against Wests Tigers on Monday night.
Matching up for the 20th time, the pair are more than familiar with one another through memorable contests at both league and Origin level. Smith has history on his side, with 12 wins out of 19 matches against the Tigers captain.
Farah has not played against any opposite number more than Smith—while the Storm captain has only met Danny Buderus on more occasions.
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The experienced competitors have been considered among the best in the code throughout recent history, with 44 State of Origin appearances between them while both have represented Australia in the international arena.
Fans at Campbelltown will be hoping their veteran can lead them to a home victory with his determined defence and attacking play, while Melbourne will look to Smith’s leadership and accuracy off the boot to help secure valuable points on the road.
Sisa Waqa v Pat Richards
Sisa Waqa will face off against opposition winger Pat Richards in a key contest when Melbourne Storm take on Wests Tigers this Monday night.
Waqa has enjoyed a successful season in 2014 as one of his club’s most dangerous attacking weapons on the wing. ‘The Flying Fijian’ is Melbourne’s leading try-scorer this season with 11, which sees him sit eighth in the NRL.
The Wests Tigers have their own answer on the wing, with veteran Richards returning to the side this season after an eight-year stint in the United Kingdom. Richards has had an immediate impact – the winger has notched 139 points and slotted 51 goals thanks to his well-renowned skill with the boot.
The 32-year-old is ranked in the top 20 players of the NRL this year in six major categories including tries, conversions, and line breaks.
Enjoying good form and known for their ability to score in crucial moments, the two wingers could play an integral part in determining the result of this fixture.
The views expressed in this article are solely of the author and do not reflect the views of Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club.
