NSW Cup Report: Round 16

Melbourne Storm’s NSW Cup side suffered a 36-26 defeat to the Canberra Raiders at AAMI Park in Round 16.

It was a closely contested battle throughout the afternoon, with Storm producing a strong first-half performance. Three first-half tries helped Melbourne take a 16-10 lead into the break.

The visitors responded early in the second half, crossing in the opening minutes to swing momentum back their way and apply pressure to the home side.

The contest remained tight as both teams traded blows, but the Raiders were able to build scoreboard pressure and extend their advantage. A late try to Amaziah Murgha gave Storm hope, but it wasn't enough to close the gap.

Young fullback Amaziah Murgha impressed with a double, while Alize Clarke and Hayden Watson backed up strongly after helping Queensland claim victory in the Under-19s State of Origin on Thursday night.

Despite the result, Melbourne will look to regroup and respond next week when they take on the Bears as their NSW Cup campaign continues.