3 minute read
A snapshot of the action from Melbourne's 40-12 win over Manly in the first NRL qualifying final.
SNAPSHOT OF THE FIRST NRL QUALIFYING FINAL
* Result: Melbourne 40 bt Manly 12 at Sunshine Coast Stadium
* Key moment: Melbourne raced out of the blocks with a try to Isaac Lumelume in the fourth minute with Kenny Bromwich scoring soon after. However, the alarm bells went off 14 minutes in when prop Christian Welch scored a soft try, showing the lack of fight in Manly's defence.
* Key stat: Manly superstar Tom Trbojevic was shut down by Melbourne for the second time in five weeks and was held scoreless for just the third time this NRL season despite his incredible strike-rate of 25 tries in 15 games.
* Injuries/suspensions: Melbourne hooker Brandon Smith was taken off early following a head clash and didn't return after failing his HIA. There are fears he suffered facial fractures which will need to be confirmed with scans on Saturday. Manly second-rower Josh Schuster was also put on report for lifting tackle on Jahrome Hughes.
* What's next? Melbourne enjoy next week off before playing in a preliminary final at Suncorp Stadium. The Sea Eagles host the winner of the elimination final between Sydney Roosters and Gold Coast in Mackay next weekend.