Storm Edge Titans 28–16 Amid Controversial Bunker Decisions

By Allan Menjo

The Melbourne Storm defeated the Gold Coast Titans 28–16 in a fiercely contested match in Round 13. 

Although both sides showed genuine skill and willingness on the field, the contentious Bunker play that ultimately determined the outcome was the main topic of conversation following the game.

Sualauvi Fa'alogo gave the Storm the lead early on by scoring twice in the first half. Melbourne easily led 16–6 at the half thanks to his outstanding run-making and ability to breach the Titans’ defense.

 The Titans narrowed the difference and maintained their chances of winning after halftime thanks to a great performance from AJ Brimson and David Fifita in particular.

However, with roughly sixteen minutes remaining, things definitely altered. The Titans may have narrowed the gap if Sam Verrills had touched down for a try. After deliberating, the Bunker decided that the Titans' forward Tino Fa'asuamaleaui had obstructed Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen, therefore awarding the Storm a penalty. Since the decision gave the Storm momentum again, many Titans supporters were unhappy and did not trust it.

Grant Anderson of Storm took advantage of a Titans error to increase the lead. The Bunker's decision that Jojo Fifita had stripped the ball when a video replay indicated Nick Meaney was attempting to pass was another contentious conclusion. Melbourne's lead was further increased when Meaney scored the penalty.

Although the fighting spirit of the two teams was identical, the Storm's superior execution and ability to maintain composure caused the tide to flip in their favor. 

Both the referees' contentious calls and Melbourne's skillful management of the game will be discussed for a very long time.