LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In a blow to the Melbourne Storm, forward Christian Welch has been ruled out of tonight's top four showdown with the Roosters.
The big man is nursing a back complaint, forcing coach Craig Bellamy to make a late change to the squad.
Lazarus Vaalepu has been called up to the interchange bench, while Chris Lewis has been drafted into the 19-man squad at the last minute.
The Storm's final starting lineup will be revealed just before kick-off tonight, as they prepare to do battle with their fierce rivals from Sydney.
It's sure to be a tough contest, with both teams looking to gain the upper hand in the race for the coveted top spot on the ladder.
With Welch on the sidelines, the Storm will need to dig deep and show their fighting spirit to come away with the win.
As they say in the world of Rugby League, it's all about strength in adversity and never giving up until the final whistle blows.
Let's hope the Storm can rise to the occasion and secure a crucial victory in front of their home crowd.
Go Storm!