Star fullback Billy Slater’s knee isn’t 100 per cent but he says he doesn’t risk any further injury playing on it.
Slater had his second match back after missing six rounds of football after injuring his left knee during the second State of Origin in mid-June.
The Test custodian had a hand in several of Melbourne’s eight tries in their 46-6 romp over Penrith at AAMI Park and showed glimpses of his dazzling form.
Late in the first half he was hobbling on his left knee after putting up a high kick and coach Craig Bellamy said post-match he was concerned.
But Slater shrugged off the pain when it “pinches in the back” as part of the ligament’s healing process.
“It’s at a stage where you do get twinges in it but you know it’s going to be sore for two or three minutes and then it will come good.
“I get them at training as well and it’s just one of those things that’s going to be there for a little while.
“It’s not 100 per cent but having a week off, it’s probably going to be the same as if I play.”
Slater said he needed to work on his strength and getting the run back in his legs but he felt a lot better than after his first game, a loss to the Dragons.
“I”m comfortable when I’m out there and I’m not thinking about my knee.”
Storm centre Justin O’Neill returned to the line-up after two games out with a groin injury and despite leaving the field with just over 10 minutes remaining, wasn’t expected to be in doubt for their next round clash at home to the Gold Coast next Friday night.
Late in the first half he leapt high to take a Cooper Cronk bomb and score a spectacular try.