Melbourne Storm execs are confident the team will advance to the finals.GETTY IMAGES
National Rugby League side Melbourne Storm is "preparing to feature in another grand final" after placing a "hold" on corporate suites at ANZ Stadium worth almost A$100,000 ($73,000), according to David Riccio of the Sydney DAILY TELEGRAPH. A firm A$2.65 ($1.93) premiership-favorite with the TAB, the Storm is "attempting to become the first NRL team in 24 years to win back-to-back titles." The club needs to "overcome an injury-plagued Cronulla" on Friday. Of the four clubs "remaining in the premiership race," it is believed only Melbourne "asked to keep three suites" worth A$28,000 ($20,000) each aside for the grand final. Each of the premium private suites on the "plush corporate level of ANZ Stadium" caters for 20 people and includes a gourmet food and beverage menu. An identical invitation to place a hold on corporate suites was sent to fellow preliminary finalists Cronulla, Sydney Roosters and the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Each of the three Sydney clubs confirmed they "politely declined the offer" (DAILY TELEGRAPH, 9/19).
