Despite losing their past two matches, with the third Origin match next Wednesday meaning Melbourne will be without Slater, Smith, Cronk and Hoffman, Canterbury find themselves short priced favourites for this clash.
After winning four on the trot, Canterbury have recorded a narrow loss to Sydney (20 – 18) and last week, went down to Newcastle 18 – 12 in the past two rounds.
The Bulldogs sit in eighth spot on the ladder but are tied with five other teams on 16 competition points so a loss here potentially could see them slide down several positions on the ladder.
Despite not having Morris or Reynolds for this match, they’ve named a strong side, particularly up front and they should be able to lay the foundation for the likes of Barbar and Inu in the backs.
After losing two in a row, Melbourne returned to the winner’s stall in impressive style last week, accounting for Brisbane 32 – 0.
That win saw them keep their spot inside the top four but as mentioned above, without key players, they’ll find it tough as they have done prior to the first two Origin matches.
Melbourne have won five of the past six matches between the two sides including a 22 – 18 victory in round 3 this year but with Origin effecting the Storm roster, and the Dogs at home and needing a win, they have the advantage this time around.
Tip: CANTERBURY 1 – 12
Odds comparison by NRL Odds:
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
| Canterbury Bulldogs | 1.30 | 1.25 | 1.25 | 1.25 | 1.30 | 1.31 |
|
Melbourne Storm
|
3.50 | 4.15 | 4.10 | 4.00 | 3.50 | 3.55 |
Teams:
Canterbury Bulldogs:
Ben Barba, Mitch Brown, Tim Lafai, Krisnan Inu, Sam Perrett, Joel Romelo, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, Sam Kasiano, Frank Pritchard, Tony Williams, Greg Eastwood. Interchange: Dene Halatau, Josh Jackson, James Graham, Dale Finucane, Tim Browne, Martin Taupau
Melbourne Storm:
Justin O’Neill, Sisa Waqa, Will Chambers, Maurice Blair, Mahe Fonua, Brett Finch, Ben Hampton, Jesse Bromwich, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Bryan Norrie, Kevin Proctor, Tohu Harris, Slade Griffin. Interchange: Jordan McLean, Junior Moors, Siosaia Vave, Mitch Garbutt, Junior Sa’u, Tim Glasby
