The Thunderbolts will face their biggest test of the season when they take on the top of the table Penrith Panthers this Saturday.
After last weekend’s bye, Storm’s Under-20s side will head into the middle part of the season looking to continue their improvement.
They take on an in-form Panthers side, who have backed up their NYC Premiership win last year to be competition front runners this season.
Be at AAMI Park when we take on the Panthers, Saturday 4 June, 7:30pm.
However the Thunderbolts will not be shying away from the challenge as they look to focus on the key area they believe will help cause an upset this weekend.
“We have to make sure that we control the football,” Thunderbolts coach Eric Smith said.
“The last few weeks we’ve been in games, been in the contest but the opposition have had twice as much ball as us.
“If we are going to be any chance against the Panthers we’ve got to make sure that we are controlling the football and getting our even share of possession.”
There has been plenty of promise shown by the Thunderbolts over the first 11 rounds.
Fullback Jesse Arthars has been a significant one. The 17-year-old was rewarded for his early season consistent form joining the Maroons in Origin camp last Sunday for an opposed session.
It has been a great confidence boost for the youngster and something for him to build on in the back end of the year.
“Jesse Arthars has been really consistent, he’s started really well for us,” Smith said.
“There are a few things we spoke to him about working harder in and he is still only 17 so it has been a bit of a grind for him playing in a tough competition.
“This middle part of the season is going to be tough for him… but he has put himself in a good position to finish the year pretty strong.”
Storm NYC Thunderbolts v Penrith Panthers
Saturday 4 June, 2:45pm
Kawana Sports Field, No.1
