Melbourne Storm vs Newcastle Knights Predictions: Knights to bear brunt of the Storm

After a 26-20 defeat at the Manly Sea Eagles last time out, Melbourne Storm have the Newcastle Knights firmly in their sights when they meet at AAMI Park on Sunday morning (05:00 kick-off).

The Storm were sitting top of the NRL standings going into this week’s games and once again the Melbourne outfit look like they will be serious Grand Final contenders this season.

As for the Knights, Newcastle have made a mixed start with six wins and six defeats in their first 12 games of the campaign. Below you can find my Melbourne Storm vs Newcastle Knights prediction.

Team News

Storm head coach Craig Bellamy has named a similar lineup to the one that played in Round 13 but there is one enforced change, with winger Will Warbrick ruled out due to a groin injury.

It means Grant Anderson has been called into the starting lineup, while Bronson Garlick has been brought onto the bench to cover at hooker.

As for the Knights, boss Adam O’Brien has decided to make no changes from the side that suffered a 32-2 defeat at the hands of the Canterbury Bulldogs in Round 13.

It’s the same 17-man squad that will be involved, which means prop Daniel Saifiti has been able to shrug off the knee injury he picked up against the Bulldogs to feature this weekend

Melbourne Storm vs Newcastle Knights Odds

Melbourne are firm favourites at 2/9 - or a 81.8% chance - to claim the victory at AAMI Park on Sunday, while the Knights are 100/30 to secure the win.

A draw on the day is available at odds of 22/1, while over 47.5 total points in the game is currently 10/11.

Melbourne Storm -14 handicap @ 21/20

Melbourne have an excellent record at home against Newcastle, with the Storm winning 15 of their last 17 meetings in Victoria.

The Knights have not managed to win in Melbourne since back in 2015 and they might have to wait a little longer to end that losing run.

Having been well beaten by the Bulldogs last time out, the Storm will pose a much sterner test at AAMI Park on Sunday.

Melbourne have the quality to put the Knights to the sword here and should fall on the right side of the -14 handicap on offer.

Melbourne Storm to win both halves @ 1/1

Given Newcastle’s struggles in Melbourne in the past, there’s value to be had at looking to Melbourne to win both halves on Sunday.

Bellamy will want a quick start from his side as they hope to leapfrog Cronulla Sharks at the top of the NRL standings.

Melbourne won’t take their foot off the gas and Evens is good value for the hosts to come out on top in both stanzas.

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