Melbourne Storm’s Jersey Flegg side produced a spirited second-half comeback but in the end were unable to overcome the Sydney Roosters, falling 32-24 in Round 20.
The Roosters controlled majority of the first half, building an early lead before Tyrone Amone put Storm on the board just before halftime, crossing in the 39th minute to cut the deficit to 24-6 going into the interval.
Melbourne emerged from halftime with renewed energy and immediately put pressure on the Roosters.
Matthew Kereti crossed just minutes into the second half before Ronnic Starkey added another 10 minutes later as Storm began to fight their way back into the contest.
Melbourne continued to build momentum throughout the second half, with Isaiah Savea crossing late to reduce the margin and keep them within striking distance.
Victory Isaako was reliable with the boot, converting all four Storm tries to ensure the pressure remained on the Roosters through the second half.
Despite outscoring the Roosters in the second half, Melbourne was unable to overcome the first half deficit, with a late Sydney try allowing the home team to secure the 32-24 win.
Storm showed an abundance of resilience, fighting their way back into the contest, and will look to build on their performance when they travel to face the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Round 21 in Sydney.
Match: Roosters v Storm
Round 20 -
home Team
Roosters
10th Position
away Team
Storm
12th Position
Venue: Wentworth Park, Sydney