Storm v Roosters NRL Rd 6 betting tips – Thursday, April 6

Round six on the 2023 NRL season kicks off in Melbourne for the Easter long-weekend with the Storm hosting the Sydney Roosters at AAMI Park. Both sides recorded last-start wins and are looking improve on their streak with several star players returning.

The Melbourne Storm receive the boost of Kiwi halfback Jahrome Hughes returning from suspension. Meanwhile, the loss of Australia and New South Wales captain James Tedesco is remedied by the return of Joseph Manu, who will take over fullback duties for the Roosters.

The Storm have won 26 of their 45 matches against the Roosters; however, their last clash ended in a four-point win to Sydney at AAMI Park. The Storm have lost their entire starting forward pack since that match and are still improving their gameplan. Despite this, the combination of Hughes with Cameron Munster and Harry Grant should be enough for Melbourne to secure a narrow victory, winning by 1-12 points at $2.95 odds with BetOnline.

There are very few, if any, weaknesses in this Sydney Roosters outfit. Although, if one player was to be singled out, it is Egan Butcher. He is more of a middle forward than one who plays on an edge and will be supremely tested by the return of Hughes and his combination with Eliesa Katoa. Look for the Storm pair to combine as Katoa continues his damaging form and scores a try at any time during the match ($4.80).

AAMI Park is one of the better scoring grounds in the NRL, and although overcast weather is predicted in the lead-up to this match, the wet weather isn’t expected to hit until Friday. Although their last match at this ground was low scoring, there is a greater emphasis on players like Munster, Hughes, Grant, Manu, Sam Walker and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii to score points. Look for the stars to shine in Melbourne as this game exceeds 39.5 total match points ($1.90).

Key matchup: Grant v Smith

Harry Grant vs Brandon Smith

Leading up to this contest, much has been said by various Storm players and Brandon Smith about their first rematch since ‘The Cheese’ left for his new club. His battle in the middle with Grant will be incredible to watch, as the former dummy-half teammates know each other’s game inside out. The key to this match will be the difference and variety Smith brings to his game. If he can bring his forwards onto the ball at speed, he will create the running opportunities he needs for himself – something the Storm will be wary of.

Storm v Roosters NRL Rd 6 betting prediction

Storm v Roosters NRL Rd 6 same game multi

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