NSW Cup Report: Round 5

Melbourne Storm’s NSW Cup side were unable to overcome a fast-starting Penrith Panthers outfit, going down 40-12 in their Round 5 clash on Friday.  

The Panthers set the tone early, finding its attacking rhythm and capatilsing on early opportunities, adding multiple tries throughout the first half to establish control of the contest.  

Melbourne responded through Mitchell Jennings in the 33rd minute, finishing off a strong attacking passage to get Storm on the scoreboard. Trent Toelau added the conversion, but the Panthers maintained a comfortable lead heading into the interval.  

Storm showed resilience after the break with Eli Morris crossing in the 54th minute to provide another try for the visitors. 

Despite moments of strong play, Storm were unable to match the Panthers pressure, with the home side adding late tries to seal its 40-12 victory.  

Storm’s NSW Cup side will turn its attention to its Round 6 clash against the Warriors, which will act as the curtain raiser for Storm’s NRL fixture.