LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a stunning display of dominance, the Brisbane Broncos have smashed their long-standing hoodoo against the Melbourne Storm at Suncorp Stadium.
For 14 years, the Broncos had been unable to secure a victory against the Storm on home turf, but that all changed as they charged into the NRL Preliminary Finals with a resounding 26-0 shutout.
The 50,157 fans in attendance were treated to a thrilling performance.
Brisbane's triumph not only secured them a place in the next round but also earned them a week off to rest and prepare for the upcoming Grand Final Qualifier.
The key to their success was a stellar defensive effort, with Captain Adam Reynolds orchestrating the team's plays with precision.
The forward pack, led by Pat Carirgan, Payne Haas, Keenan Palasia, and Jordan Riki, provided the foundation for Brisbane's victory.
Right from the start, the Broncos burst out of the blocks and dominated the opening exchanges.
They capitalized on a Storm error, turning it into points through a powerful charge by Staggs on the right edge.
Staggs bulldozed through four would-be tacklers, igniting the crowd and converting Reynolds' kick to take the score to 6-0 after just eight minutes.