Rd. 20 v Eels - NYC Match Report
Saturday 21 July 2012 9:42 PM
The Thunderbolts have moved to within one point of the top eight after a 28-22 win over the Parramatta Eels.
Following two solid wins at home, Melbourne needed another win to keep their finals’ hopes alive.
After a cagy start, Jack Joass gave the visitors a dream start with a try after 12 minutes. The in-form winger then added to his impressive kicking tally by adding the extras from out wide.
On the back of field position, it was only going to be a matter of time until the visitors extended their advantage.
A 24th minute try to Young Tonumaipea gave the Thunderbolts a deserved 10 point lead.
The first half scoring wasn’t over though, with Kirisome Auva’a barging over. The all important third try added to the four tries he scored last week, and gave Melbourne a commanding 16 point advantage.
Just when it looked as if they would be held scoreless, the hosts scored right on the stroke of half time through Mitchell Brasington.
The Eels needed to hit back early in the 2nd half, but it was the Thunderbolts who would open the scoring. Ben Hampton continued his stellar season with a try in the 59th minute. The conversion from Joass ensured Melbourne would lead by a comfortable 18 points.
A double for John Folau gave the Eels a glimmer of hope, but Richard Kennar’s try with ten minutes to go wrapped up the two competition points.
Brasington grabbed a late try, but it was nothing more than a consolation.
Melbourne were solid across the park, with the halves once again dominating.
The six point win has put Melbourne just one game outside the top eight. They will take on the 8th placed Dragons next week, in what is shaping up as a season defining game for both sides.
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Craig Bellamy Media Conference
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