All the stats that matter from an action packed afternoon of Sunday Football as Melbourne travelled to Newcastle to face the Knights.
82
Last week's 82 per cent completion rate was replicated on Sunday with Storm again showing the care and respect for the football which Craig Bellamy desires. Just as it did in Round 14 against the Broncos, Melbourne's ability to keep possession of the football and in turn build pressure was telling against a young Newcastle outfit.
42
Usually a stat reserved for Cameron Smith, youngster Joe Stimson stepped up yesterday to record a team high 42 tackles. Tirelessly working throughout the contest, Stimson repaid the faith shown in him by Craig Bellamy to earn a starting spot in the second-row in what was a complete 80-minute performance.
6
Cameron Smith had his kicking boots on in Newcastle on Sunday, slotting six goals from all over the park against the Knights. It is not an isolated incident for the Melbourne captain who has ben clinical in front of the posts all season so far. Smith's conversion rate of 85.71% to date in 2018 is the best of his career since 2003 where he kicked eight goals at 88.89%.
3
Melbourne's victory over the Knights was the third in a row for Storm as they negotiate the always difficult Origin period. Now facing big matches against the Roosters in Adelaide and the Dragons at home, Craig Bellamy will be hoping his side can continue their run of form which has seen them rise to fifth on the table.
