Smith one step closer to points record as Storm smash Panthers in Bathurst
Melbourne skipper Cameron Smith is one step closer to breaking Hazem El Masri's points scoring record, after reaching 2400 points in the first half of the Storm’s 32-2 trouncing of the Panthers at Carrington Park.
Two penalty goals and four conversions in his record 388th match took Smith to within nine points of passing the all time mark of 2418 held by Bulldogs champion El Masri.
With the temperature almost dropping to zero in Bathurst, the Storm froze the Panthers out early by keeping their line intact.
Uncharacteristic errors gave the home side 30 looks at the tryline inside the opening 30 minutes and, each time, Melbourne turned them away.
In a worrying sign for NSW State of Origin coach Brad Fittler, Panthers halves James Maloney and Nathan Cleary looked devoid of ideas in attack.
Smith one step closer to the NRL points scoring record. AAP
Cameron Munster scored after a horrific mistake off a kick from Dylan Edwards handed the Storm five-eighth the opening try.
A torrential pre-game downpour made conditions greasy, however that didn't stop the Storm taking their chances when presented.
The Panthers weren't without their chances to respond, but couldn't find a way through a seemingly impenetrable defence.
In contrast, the Storm didn't get their first crack inside the Panthers' red zone until the 31st minute, but still took a six-point halftime lead with a Smith penalty goal.
Craig Bellamy's men cranked up in the second half, beginning with a Brodie Croft try that came from a Munster bomb fluffed by Edwards.
It was a horror night for the Panthers' fullback, who finished with six errors.
Addo-Carr, Marion Seve and Jesse Bromwich completed the rout with tries in the final 30 minutes, as the Storm moved provisionally to the top of the ladder.
- with AAP
