Storm withstand upset threat from Cowboys despite having 10 players sidelined

The Melbourne Storm narrowly avoided an upset against the North Queensland Cowboys, battling through a match without several Origin stars.

Cameron Munster, Harry Grant, Xavier Coates, Trent Loiero, and Stefano Utoikamanu were absent as the Storm made their way to Townsville. Additionally, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Will Warbrick, Sua Fa’alogo, and Jack Howarth were sidelined due to injury.

Things looked precarious for Melbourne when the Cowboys surged ahead 18-12 following Scott Drinkwater’s try in the 51st minute, hinting at a potential upset against the title contenders.

However, the Storm quickly regrouped, with Nick Meaney crossing for a critical try just moments later. A penalty goal from Meaney followed after Coen Hess was penalised for a high shot, giving the Storm the lead.

Meaney added another try in the 65th minute, extending the lead to 26-18. A late penalty goal from Scott Drinkwater added some pressure, but the Cowboys were unable to conjure the decisive play needed to level the match.

Commenting on the performance, Cooper Cronk on Fox League remarked, “With several Origin players unavailable, victories like this can strengthen a premiership-winning team… a solid win for them.”

Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

The Cowboys faced their own challenges, with Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai, Reece Robson, and Tom Dearden also representing in Origin.

The match initially saw Eli Katoa break the deadlock for the Storm, before Robert Derby responded with a try for the Cowboys.

In addition, Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Jaxon Purdue were on the scoresheet during the first half.

Looking ahead, the Storm will take on the Knights next Saturday, while the Cowboys are set to meet the Bulldogs.