Melbourne returned to form with a convincing 22-8 victory over Souths.
South Sydney used two challenges during the game, but a number of handling errors cost them vital opportunities.
Ryan Papenhuyzen raced away for the opening score, after receiving a perfectly-timed inside ball from Suliasi Vunivalu.
Alex Johnston quickly reciprocated with a successful dive in the corner. Adam Reynolds’ conversion gave Souths a slender two-point lead.
Melbourne re-acquired the lead before the interval. Half-backs Cameron Munster and Jerome Hughes combined well to set up Suniasi Vunivalu, who finished out-wide.
HT: Melbourne 8-6 South Sydney
Adam Reynolds and Cameron Smith booted over penalties for their respective sides, maintaining Storm’s two-point lead.
Josh Addo-Carr ended his try-scoring drought by perfectly collecting a lofted kick from Munster. Justin Olam ensured victory by finishing off a well-worked move on their left.
FT: Melbourne 22-8 South Sydney
Melbourne: Papenhuyzen, Vunivalu, Olam, Lee, Addo-Carr, Munster, Hughes, J. Bromwich, C. Smith, B. Smith, Kaufusi, K. Bromwich, Finucane. Subs: Welch, Faasuamaleaui, King, Lewis
Rabbitohs: Mitchell, Gagai, Graham, Burns, Johnston, Dargan, Reynolds, Tatola, Cook, Burgess, Su’A, Murray, Lowe. Subs: Knight, Nicholls, Amone, Koloamatangi
