Melbourne Storm vs St George Illawarra Dragons Predictions: No issues expected for leaders

Melbourne Storm lead the way in the NRL heading into Saturday's clash against the St George Illawarra Dragons and they will expect to pick up a routine win on home soil (08:30am BST, Sky Sports Arena).

Craig Bellamy's team have a four-point cushion over Penrith Panthers, while the Dragons are clinging on to their slim play-off hopes in 10th. Melbourne have won seven matches in a row in the NRL, while the Dragons have been inconsistent, winning four of their previous eight games. Read on for my Melbourne Storm vs St George Illawarra Dragons prediction, as well as the latest match odds and team news.

Rugby League Odds

Team News

Bellamy has recalled Cameron Munster, and he moves straight into the team, having featured last week from the bench. Tyran Wishart moves to the bench, while Sua Faalogo has been named the 18th man for Melbourne.

Dragons ace Tyrell Sloan is back in the No.1 jersey after featuring in the NSW Cup last week, and he replaces Mat Feagai, who suffered a head injury last time out.

Toby Couchman is suspended, meaning brother Ryan moves onto the bench, while Blake Lawrie is named among the reserves. Dragons ace Ben Murdoch-Masila will watch from the sidelines due to a foot injury.

Melbourne Storm vs St George Illawarra Dragons Odds

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As league leaders, Melbourne are as short as 1/10 to win on home soil on Saturday, with the draw 33/1, while the Dragons are 6/1 outsiders.

Melbourne -20 and over 50.5 match points has been boosted to 5/2, while the hosts are 20/21 to just cover the handicap.

Bellamy's troops are expected to cruise to victory, with the Storm 1/4 to win the first half.

Melbourne Storm -20 @ 20/21

Melbourne have set the standard all season and 15 wins from 18 games suggests they should have too much quality for the Dragons.

Munster's return only strengthens Melbourne through the middle of the park and, if he is at his best, the Dragons will struggle to contain him.

St George conceded 46 points to Penrith and Melbourne are considered to be at the same level as the defending champions.

Melbourne Storm Over 35.5 points @ 5/6

Storm have won five of their past six games against the Dragons, while the visitors have a dismal record in Melbourne.

Their last win in Melbourne came in 1999 and Bellamy’s team have been so consistent, winning 17 of their past 18 matches at AAMI Park.

The Dragons have struggled defensively of late, conceding 46 points to Penrith, 26 against Brisbane Broncos and 42 when they lost to Sydney Roosters.

Melbourne, at home, should rack up the points, as they move a step closer to winning the J.J. Giltinan Shield.

You can read all our latest Rugby League Betting Tips at our dedicated Betfred Insights Rugby League content hub.