LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
An injured Jahrome Hughes has helped lead the Melbourne Storm to back-to-back NRL Grand Finals after a hard-fought 22-14 victory against the Cronulla Sharks.
In a back-and-forth contest that was played at a frenetic pace, the Storm hit early through Will Warbick in the corner, only for Sione Katoa to respond with a try of his own just five minutes later.
Both teams were eager to gain the upper hand, but it was Storm halfback Jahrome Hughes who truly impressed. Out of nowhere, Hughes executed a stunning solo try, evading the Sharks' defence with a right-step before accelerating past William Kennedy.
Despite concerns about his injury throughout the week, the reigning Dally M Medal winner proved coach Craig Bellamy's choice to include him in the line-up was a wise move. With a cast reminiscent of Mal Meninga's from his playing days at the Canberra Raiders, Hughes became a focal point for the opposition yet remained undeterred, even after taking a high shot from Braydon Trindall.
Shortly after Hughes' impressive score, Katoa managed to add another try for the Sharks, but the Storm responded well, ending the first half with an eight-point lead thanks to a well-executed set-piece.