'Something we need to fix': Cameron Munster's blunt warning over Storm's finals fate
Five rounds remain until the NRL finals kick-off, with 15 teams still mathematically in the equation to make the eight.
Reigning premiers the Penrith Panthers are a guaranteed entry into the semi finals and the sole threat to challenge the Melbourne Storm for the minor premiership.
But despite being atop the ladder, lingering mistakes and bad habits are posing a threat to the Storm's premiership dominance, according to Cameron Munster.
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Melbourne secured a four-point cushion at the top of the ladder after defeating the Rabbitohs, but the match was all but convincing for coach Craig Bellamy ahead of the finals.
The visitors looked capable of putting 50 points on South Sydney in the first half at Accor Stadium, dominating the ruck and charging through the middle to claim a 20-point lead at half-time.
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However, Bellamy's men switched off in the second half as the powerful Rabbitohs' outfit came charging back.
"If we keep dropping the ball we could end up being knocked out of the finals very quickly," Munster told Nine.
"I think we were pretty good in the first half. We were clinical in certain stages but the second half was pretty much like last week. We just dropped the ball too much.
Cameron Munster is tackled by the Rabbitohs defence. Getty
"The Rabbitohs couldn't capitalise with the ball much tonight because it was a bit slippery and wet but we can't afford to be doing that to good quality teams.
"Souths are a good team... and if they had Latrell (Mitchell) tonight it could have been a different story.
"It's something we need to fix, especially in the second half."
The defeat marks the end of South Sydney's season as they are officially out of contention to qualify for the eight.
Will Warbrick celebrates scoring a try with teammates. Getty
But for Melbourne, the hunt for the premiership trophy is only just heating up as they prepare to face the Panthers next Thursday.
When asked if his team's performance against the Rabbitohs was at a sufficient level to compete with the Penrith next round, Munster replied: "Probably not".
"They just keep turning up and that's why they've been a good quality side over the last four years," he continued.
"We are looking forward to playing against the best and they are the best. We will need (the seven-day rest)."
