LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Roosters coach Trent Robinson has commended Storm's Craig Bellamy for "changing the game" of rugby league. However, Robinson is determined to disrupt the celebrations marking Bellamy's 600-game milestone as the Roosters aim to secure their position in the top eight.
The Roosters currently hold a two-point lead over the Dolphins and the Sea Eagles with just two rounds left in the season. They are in control of their own fate, needing a victory against a Storm team that is missing several key players, followed by a win against Souths next week.
Although the Roosters will be without their star halfback Sam Walker, who is sidelined due to concussion protocols, Robinson has expressed confidence in Sandon Smith, who has been called up for this crucial match in Melbourne.
Sandon Smith last played in round 21 against the Storm before suffering a concussion, but he has recently made significant contributions in the NSW Cup, including a game-winning goal against Souths and scoring two tries in a recent victory over the Bears.
Smith's familiarity with his halves partner Hugo Savala, as well as his established synergy with Angus Crichton and Billy Smith on the left edge, is expected to aid in the transition.
"Sam is a great player and to lose him last week was difficult, but Sandon is also a first-grader. It's actually quite seamless with how much they (Smith and Savala) have played this year," Robinson remarked. He added, "Often when you change combinations, you need to spend a fair bit of time talking between the half and the back-rower and the centre and all of that."