FIJI Bati star Marika Koroibete marked his 50th National Rugby League appearance with two wonderful tries to help Melbourne Storm edge St George Illawarra Dragons 18-16 on Monday night.
Looking bigger and faster than last season, the Namosi speedster’s second try was an absolute delight as he put on a huge step off his right foot and accelerated past Josh Dugan, leaving the Dragons centre red-faced at AAMI Park.
“It’s the traditional Fijian step,” the 23-year-old said in an interview from Melbourne yesterday.
Down 10-0 following a slow start, Koroibete’s double, masterminded by superstar fullback Billy ‘The Kid’ Slater, brought the Storm back in the game and captain Cam Smith’s two penalties put the home team in the lead at halftime (12-10).
“For me, I didn’t expect to come this far,” he said regarding his 50th NRL game.
“To come this far is a big achievement.
“50th game, two tries and to win, I feel lucky. I thank the boys. Everyone worked hard for each other.”
Craig Bellamy’s Storm is hoping for a good season.
“We have a few things to work on. It’s a long season and we will work things out,” Koroibete said.
“I reckon I’m a bit faster. Everyone in the team is getting fast. We’ve been working hard on speed and want to play a fast game. That’s a Melbourne Storm goal this year.”
He was later named in the NRL round one team of the week.
Koroibete and the Storm face Gold Coast Titans in round two on Sunday.