Melbourne Storm have fallen 16-34 to Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval on Friday night.
A three try second half to the Tigers in front of their home faithful was too much for Melbourne as they chased the game after half-time.
After holding out the hosts close to the try line on two occasions during the opening stages, Melbourne made inroads while in possession to quickly take a hold on the contest.
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Playing against his former side, winger Marika Koroibete continued his stellar 2015 season powering over opposing winger David Nofoaluma before moments later securing a double to extend Melbourne's lead. Cooper Cronk was instrumental in the build up, creating the breakaway to then provide the assist for his winger.
With momentum going all the way of the visitors, Wests Tigers were sparked into action after some James Tedesco magic. Minutes after their fullback opened the Tigers' account, Jason Taylor's side found themselves two points in front when Dene Halatau crossed. A late effort on the stroke of half-time from Nofoaluma handed the hosts an eight point advantage at the break.
Needing a fast start to the second half, Melbourne couldn't find it and immediately called upon their goal line defence to keep in the contest.
As they did in the opening stanza, Craig Bellamy's side then transformed into attack to score through Jesse Bromwich and draw within two points.
However a buoyant Tigers outfit refused to relinquish their lead building on the narrow advantage with back-to-back four pointers before James Tedesco completed his double and sealed victory with just over 10 minutes left in the match.
Melbourne Storm 16
Tries: Marika Koroibete 12m, Marika Koroibete 16m, Jesse Bromwich 44m
Goals: Cameron Smith 2
Defeated by.
Wests Tigers 34
Tries: James Tedesco 30m, Dene Halatau 31m, David Nofoaluma 40m, Pat Richards 53m, David Nofoaluma 61m, James Tedesco 69m
Goals: Pat Richards 5
