1999 Melbourne Storm season

January 2023 June 2013 1999 #6C0094 #ffd700 NRL NRL 3rd 16 0 8 639 392 Premiers 1999 NRL Executive Director John Ribot Coach Chris Anderson Glenn Lazarus (26 matches) Tawera Nikau (2 matches) Olympic Park Stadium 12,902Crowds Regular season home matches in Melbourne only 16,473 (Round 9)Crowds Regular season home matches in Melbourne only Matt Geyer (20), Robbie Ross (20) Matt Geyer (81) Matt Geyer (242) 1998 2000 yes List of Melbourne Storm seasons The 1999 Melbourne Storm season was the second in the club's history. Coached by Chris Anderson and captained by Glenn Lazarus, they competed in the National Rugby League's 1999 season, finishing the regular season in 3rd out of 17 teams. Melbourne reached the 1999 NRL Grand Final and defeated the St George Illawarra Dragons, claiming their first premiership. Stability in playing talent and continued off-field support from Melbourne's core supporters, produced a continued improvement in 1999. Injury took away Scott Hill and Robbie Kearns for much of the season. Melbourne's fullback Robbie Ross, winger Matt Geyer and front-row forwards Rodney Howe and Glenn Lazarus were all selected to play for New South Wales in the 1999 State of Origin series. In their final home game at Olympic Park, the Storm lost to the North Sydney Bears and having had a bye in the last round and they had no opportunity to lift their form before fronting the St. George Illawarra Dragons in their first final. The Storm ultimately lost this game to the Dragons by 34-10 and looked set for a repeat of the 1998 exit. Despite lacking confidence,Melbourne Storm History https://www.melbournestorm.com.au/about/storm-history/ melbournestorm.com.au Melbourne Storm 7 March 2018 Melbourne Storm outlasted the Canterbury Bulldogs by 24–22 to reach the preliminary final against Parramatta Eels. The Eels had let a place in the Grand Final slip out of their grasp in the same match in 1998, and were tipped to be much hungrier for a win than the Storm. Parramatta took a hold on the match, but the Storm did not relent and thanks to some last-ditch tackling stayed in the game. A late try to the Storm saw them win by 18-16 and secure a re-match against the Dragons for the title. The Storm had lost twice to the Dragons already in 1999 and by the time Melbourne was behind by 0–14 at half time, it was more than apparent that St. George – Illawarra were going to take the premiership in their first ever season. There was nothing in the Storm's performance to indicate that a comeback was possible. But Melbourne Storm recovered from their poor start with inspiring efforts from Paul Marquet, Brett Kimmorley and Tawera Nikau. Into the final minutes of the game the Dragons led 18-14 but were forced to drop out from their own line. On the fifth tackle Kimmorley kicked high into the Dragons' corner. As the Storm's winger Craig Smith caught the ball over the try-line he was knocked unconscious in a head-high tackle by Jamie Ainscough and lost the ball. Referee Bill Harrigan deferred to the video referee and the replay clearly showed that if not for the illegal tackle Smith would have scored a try. A penalty try was awarded giving the Storm's Matt Geyer a conversion from in front of the posts to take Melbourne Storm to a 20–18 lead and the title. Season summary 12 February – Melbourne open their season with a trial match against the Auckland Warriors at Brisbane's Lang Park. Using their entire squad, the Storm had led 14–4, before a spirited fourth quarter comeback lifted the Warriors to a 16–14 win in front of 5,000 fans.Potter David CLOSE SCORELINE CAN OFTEN BE SO DECEIVING Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 13 February 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 75Warriors leave Storm flat-footed The Australian News Corporation Australia 15 February 1999 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 22 (Sport) 14 February – Despite their successes in 1998, Melbourne were not quoted among the favourites among bookmakers to win the 1999 premiership, with NSW SportsTAB spokesperson Wayne Cross saying: "I reckon they over-achieved last season and will find the going harder in 1999. They've got some good players but a couple of injuries and they'll crash right out of contention."Prentice Tim Joint team second favourites The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 14 February 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 67 Melbourne were quoted by bookmakers at the start of the season as 12/1 chances to win the premiership.Sport briefs The Age Fairfax Media 2 March 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) 20 February – Melbourne then made their second trip to Albury to take on the Canberra Raiders in front of over 7,000 fans. The Storm finished strongly to win 24–18, after trailing 14–8 at half time.Melbourne Storm 2000 Info Guide Melbourne Storm 107–110DeKroo Karl Three-try Lapse Costly For Raiders Canberra Times Fairfax Media 21 February 1999 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 13 (Sport)Paxinos Stathi Storm clicks to beat Raiders The Age Fairfax Media 21 February 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 7 (Sport) The club again courted controversy and a potential fine of 10,000 with suspended forward Rodney Howe seen on the sideline and carrying drinks onto the field.Storm raging over Howe Illawarra Mercury 22 February 1999 Wollongong, New South Wales 44 25 February – Melbourne were fined 10,000 for the second time in a week for allowing suspended forward Rodney Howe to be on the player's bench during the trial match against the Raiders in Albury. The first fine also related to Howe sitting on the bench during a match during the 1998 season following Howe's 22-match suspension for taking performance enhancing drugs.NRL hands out fines The Advertiser News Corporation Australia 26 February 1999 Adelaide, South Australia 84$10,000 to sit on a bench - NRL gets tough on banned players Illawarra Mercury 26 February 1999 Wollongong, New South Wales 56 Storm coach Chris Anderson later saying: "It is time the persecution of Rodney Howe stopped. Howe has been fined by the club and the NRL. He has been made an example of and humiliated at every level. As far as I'm concerned he is part of the club and, for the sake of his rehabilitation, it is important he knows that."Angry Anderson slams treatment Newcastle Herald 1 March 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 48 Round 1 – Melbourne open the 1999 NRL season, winning the first game of the season 32–10. Matt Geyer scored the first try of the season in front of 12,056 fans at Olympic Park.Paxinos Stathi Storm crushes Penrith 32-10 first-up The Age 6 March 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 20 (sport)Potter David STORM FACE $10,000 FINE OVER HOWE Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 23 February 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 32Sports briefs The Age Fairfax Media 26 February 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) Big-name signing Stephen Kearney made his debut for the club in the match, setting up a number of attacking moves.Westlake Michael Storm blows penrith away The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 6 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 148 Round 2 – Former Melbourne wger John Carlaw scored a try against the club in Balmain Tigers 16–6 victory. Carlaw said he "just wanted to prove a point." Melbourne had two tries disallowed in the defeat, with the Storm attack unable to break the Tigers defence.Paxinos Stathi Tigers blow Storm away The Age Fairfax Media 14 March 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 10 (Sport) 16 March – It was reported that Melbourne Storm officials were considering legal action against broadcaster Alan Jones who had claimed on his 2UE radio show that players were "fairly inebriated" on the Friday evening before the match against Balmain.Westlake Michael Storm plan legal action The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 16 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 66 Jones later apologised to Melbourne Storm CEO Chris Johns, with the club not pursuing the matter further.Sport briefs The Age Fairfax Media 19 March 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport)Weidler Danny Storm abates as Jones backs down on drinking claim Sun Herald Fairfax Media 21 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 122 Round 3 – Storm thrash Brisbane Broncos 48–6 to inflict (what was then) Brisbane's heaviest defeat in their history.Ricketts Steve BRONCOS SPOOKED BY THE STORM Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 22 March 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 1 It was Melbourne's first win against the Broncos, after losing both matches during the 1998 season. During the second half, Aaron Moule became the first Melbourne player to be sent to the sin bin.Ricketts Storm batter ailing Broncos The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 22 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 45 (Sport)Storm breaks Brisbane spirit Illawarra Mercury 22 March 1999 Wollongong, New South Wales 27 (Sport) 22 March – Melbourne coach Chris Anderson was appointed Kangaroos coach.Paxinos Stathi Australian job goes to Storm coach The Age Fairfax Media 23 March 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) 23 March – At the NRL Judiciary, Stephen Kearney was suspended for five matches for a grade one dangerous throw charge from an incident in the match against the Broncos, the suspension also ruling him out of the 1999 Anzac Test.Mascord Steve Judiciary's Storm warning Sydney Morning Herald 24 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 50 (Sport)Ritchie Dean Is this tackle worth a five-match suspension The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 25 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 68 Round 4 – Melbourne run the risk of censure from the NRL after introducing "Skirt Man" to the Olympic Park crowd before the game against Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Storm CEO Chris Johns claimed the NRL Judiciary's decision to suspend Stephen Kearney for five matches would see players "all wearing skirts".Middleton David Rugby League 2000 2000 Harper Sports Sydney 0732265576Hadfield Warwick Indignant Storm face censure for 'skirt man' The Australian News Corporation Australia 27 March 1999 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 68 Melbourne were behind 17–10 with less than 20 minutes remaining in the match, scoring three late tries to seal a 26–17 win.STORM ROAR HOME IN STUNNER Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 27 March 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 78Westlake Michael Melbourne thumb their noses at NRL The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 27 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 156Prichard Greg Weidler Danny Skirt man fury - RUGBY LEAGUE A dressing-down for Storm's stunt Sun Herald Fairfax Media 28 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 106 29 March – The NRL take no further action against the Storm for the "Skirt Man" stunt.Ricketts Steve Teasing tutu only a Storm in teacup – NRL skirts around pre-match stunt Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 30 March 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 34Frilingos Peter NRL can't skirt this problem The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 30 March 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 62 31 March – NRL Judiciary chairman Justice Greg Woods rejected Melbourne's appeal against Stephen Kearney's five match suspension after the club presented additional video replays.Frilingos Peter Video sinks Storm appeal The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 1 April 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 60 Round 5 – An out of sorts Melbourne had their winning streak snapped by the Cronulla Sharks in a 20–16 loss at Olympic Park. The Sharks defence holding out the Storm late in the match, with Robbie Kearns held up over the line with seven minutes remaining.Westlake Michael SHARKS HALT STORM SURGE Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 5 April 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 31 (Sport) Round 6 – In his first game back following a 22-match suspension for steroid use, Rodney Howe is charged with a grade two careless high tackle in a tackle that broke the jaw of Auckland Warriors hk Jason Death.Mascord Steve Howe facing new trouble Sun Herald Fairfax Media 11 April 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 109 Howe was later suspended for one match.Cockerill Ian Howe outed over tackle The Age Fairfax Media 14 April 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 7 (Sport) Melbourne won the match 38–10 against the Warriors, for their first win in New Zealand.Cockerill Ian Storm blows Warriors away The Age Fairfax Media 10 April 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 21 (Sport) Round 8 – Matt Geyer sets a new club record for points in a game with 24 (two tries, eight goals) against South Sydney Rabbitohs, eclipsing Craig Smith's mark of 18 points against Western Suburbs Magpies.Geyer had practised his goalkicking with former Socceroos forward Scott Ollerenshaw in the leadup to the match after landing only three of ten attempts at goal during the last two matches.Paxinos Stathi Fire back as Storm triumphs The Age Fairfax Media 25 April 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) Melbourne won the match 52–6, scoring nine tries in the match.Zwar Adam RABBITOHS TORN APART IN STORM DEVASTATION Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 25 April 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 138 Round 9 – Robbie Ross scored two tries as Melbourne defeated the Brisbane Broncos for the second time in the season, taking a 28–18 win that kept the reigning premiers on the foot of the NRL ladder. The crowd of 16,473 was the highest announced crowd at Olympic Park for the season, with a tribute to the recently retired Allan Langer featuring at halftime.Paxinos Stathi Gutsy Storm comes of age The Age Fairfax Media 3 May 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 6 (Sport)Reed Ron STORM FANS STUN LANGER Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 3 May 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 34 Round 10 – In the club's first ever game in Western Australia, Melbourne thrash Western Suburbs Magpies 62–6 at Lathlain Park. Matt Geyer sets two new club records – most points in a game (34); tries in a game (four). He also equalled Craig Smith's club record nine goals in a game. Geyer's 34 points was the sixth highest individual scoring effort in league history.Paxinos Stathi Storm bursts open Wests The Age Fairfax Media 9 May 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport)Westlake Michael STORM SHATTER WESTS Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 9 May 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 147 18 May – Robbie Kearns is thrown from a horse during a NSW Blues Origin "bonding camp" in the Megalong Valley organised by coach Wayne Pearce. Kearns suffers a broken collarbone, and is ruled out of action for months.Cockerill Ian Kent Paul Mascord Steve Storm over Kearns' horse riding injury The Age Fairfax Media 19 May 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport)Ritchie Dean BLACK AND BLUE – The day Junior's bonding plan came unstuck The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 19 May 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 68 Melbourne coach Chris Anderson later blasts Pearce in his newspaper column: "As far as I'm concerned, any coach who puts blokes on horses mid-season, let alone before an important representative clash, is off their rocker." Round 13 – Melbourne lose to joint venture club St George Illawarra Dragons in the first meeting between the clubs. Backing up after the first State of Origin match, captain Glenn Lazarus blamed himself for the loss, apologising for three errors with the ball. Scores were level at 12–all at half time, Melbourne unable to contain the Dragons after the break.Hadfield Warwick Storm captain says sorry for letting it slip The Australian 29 May 1999 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 54Mascord Steve Lightning Blacklock hits twice Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 29 May 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 56 Round 14 – Missing three players due to State of Origin selection,Cockerill Ian Storm embraces winds of change The Age Fairfax Media 2 June 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport) Melbourne lose 26–6 to the Canberra Raiders. The Storm fell behind early in chilly conditions, looking out of sorts and sluggish while lacking discipline.Paxinos Stathi Canberra hands Storm second successive defeat The Age Fairfax Media 5 June 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 19 (Sport) 8 June – Scott Hill undergoes surgery on a shoulder injury ruling him out for the rest of the season,Keeble Brett Storm lose classy pivot Newcastle Herald 8 June 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 61Cockerill Ian Injury creates heartache for Hill The Age Fairfax Media 10 June 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) while club officials call for State of Origin players to be released back to their clubs on the weekend before any dead rubber games. Round 15 – Melbourne lose three matches in a row for the first time, losing by one point to the Andrew Johns inspired Newcastle Knights in an entertaining match.Keeble Brett Unsung forwards damaged Storm Newcastle Herald 14 June 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 30 The halfback scored a try and kicked the winning field goal in a 27–26 result.Storm turning corner: coach The Age Fairfax Media 15 June 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) 17 June – Paul Rauhihi is released from his contract with Melbourne to sign with Newcastle Knights. Rauhihi never played a first grade game for Melbourne.Gardiner James Stormy Knight - Melbourne prop joins Newcastle Newcastle Herald 18 June 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 72 Round 16 – The Storm snap a three-match losing streak with a gritty 26–8 win over the Sydney City Roosters at Olympic Park. Brett Kimmorley and Tawera Nikau both having strong matches, while teenage fullback Brad Watts was brought into the team to make his NRL debut.Hadfield Warwick Kimmorley, Mr T sweep City The Australian News Corporation Australia 19 June 1999 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 50Storm ruffles Roosters' feathers - STORM 26 ROOSTERS 8 Illawarra Mercury 19 June 1999 Wollongong, New South Wales 86 23 June – Chairman John Ribot confirms Melbourne has been investigating a possible move to the under construction Docklands Stadium in 2000.Seeking shelter for the Storm The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 27 June 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 69 Round 17 – Stephen Kearney was reported again for a high tackle on Terry Hill in Melbourne's 19–18 win against Manly at Brookvale Oval. Brett Kimmorley scored two tries and the winning field goal three minutes from fulltime.Cockerill Ian Kearney report sours Storm win The Age Fairfax Media 28 June 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 6 (Sport)Coach Chris Anderson praising Kimmorley as among the "best five or six players" in the world.Ritchie Dean Anderson praises Origin outcast The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 28 June 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 43 29 June – Melbourne endure a double blow at the NRL Judiciary with prop forward Rodney Howe suspended for two matches for striking and Stephen Kearney receiving a one match suspension for his high tackle on Terry Hill. The Storm successfully arguing for a reduction in the grading of the Kearney tackle from grade two to grade one. Round 18 – In wet conditions at Olympic Park, Parramatta blew out Melbourne in the first half to lead 18–0 to score the most points in the first half against the Storm. Robbie Ross scored a late consolation try in the 20–6 loss.Paxinos Stathi Parramatta blows out Storm The Age 3 July 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 17 (Sport) Brett O'Farrell made his debut for the Storm in the match.EELS ELECTRIC AGAINST DEPLETED STORM Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 3 July 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 70 6 July – The NSWRL tell Melbourne that under no circumstances will they pay compensation to Robbie Kearns for the horse riding accident.Westlake Michael We won't pay - NSWRL delivers abrupt answer to Storm The Daily Telegraph 7 July 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 74 Round 19 – In Melbourne's first visit to Stadium Australia, the team bounced back from their loss to Parramatta to beat the Bulldogs 24–14. Aaron Moule scored a double, while Brad Watts almost scored two tries himself, his second try denied by the video referee.Westlake Michael DOGS IN DUMPS Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 11 July 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 149 Round 20 – A 30–10 win over the Raiders entrenched the Storm in the top eight and put them on track for a potential home final. Playing off the bench, Brad Watts scored two tries in the win after Marcus Bai had opened the scoring, latching onto a cross-field kick from Ben Anderson.Roy Masters Roy Masters (rugby league) Storm solid as Raiders turn into faders Sydney Morning Herald 17 July 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 58 19 July – Tony Martin suffers serious facial injuries after a cycling accident.Adams Tony STORM DAMAGE – Injury curse strikes again The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 20 July 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 64Roy Masters Roy Masters (rugby league) Storm star falls to earth with a gash Sydney Morning Herald 20 July 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 40 Martin would end up missing three matches from the incident for which he required plastic surgery and extensive dental work. Martin later admitting "it's scary to think what would have happened had I not been wearing a helmet."Bike helmet 'saved my life' Illawarra Mercury 24 July 1999 Wollongong, New South Wales 77 20 July – Brad Watts signed a two-year contract extension with the club, the 19-year-old becoming the first player to be signed past the end of the 2000 season.Paxinos Stathi Storm signs young gun The Age Fairfax Media 21 July 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport) Round 21 – Melbourne inflict Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks first home defeat of the season, winning 26–18 in windy conditions. Steve Kearney scored two tries and set up another for Robbie Ross in the 26–18 victory. Melbourne holding off the Sharks after taking a 16–2 half time lead.Westlake Michael KEARNEY WHIPS UP STORM - SKIPPER SAYS HE'S ONE OF THE BEST Courier Mail 26 July 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 3 (Sport)Frilingos Peter Storm pack full of aces The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 26 July 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 37 (Sport) 28 July – Melbourne captain Glenn Lazarus announces he will retire at the end of the 1999 season to take up a coaching role with Canberra Raiders.Westlake Michael Glenn calls it a day – There'll be no coming back this time for Lazarus The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 29 July 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 55Lazarus won't rise next season Newcastle Herald 29 July 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 35 Round 22 – Leading 16–2 at halftime, Melbourne hold on for a 16–14 win against the Auckland Warriors at Olympic Park, a take from Matt Geyer in the final minutes that forced Warriors winger Nigel Vagana into touch a key moment.Westlake Michael Close shave rattles Storm — Geyer's tackle saves the day The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 2 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 46 (Sport) Warriors halfback Matthew Ridge was sent off during the match for tripping Geyer earlier in the match.Shaw John Trip triggers tears for besieged star The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 3 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 60 3 August – New Zealand international hooker Richard Swain extended his contract with the club for another three years.Swain stays with Storm The Age Fairfax Media 3 August 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 2 (Sport) 5 August – Storm lodge an official claim for compensation with the ARL on behalf of Robbie Kearns for income lost due to the horse riding accident.Mascord Steve Kearns storm hits ARL as club seeks damages Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 6 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 38 6 August – Melbourne lose front-row forward Wayne Evans for the remainder of the season with the 24-year-old suffering from two bulging discs in his back which had him in considerable pain.Promising Melbourne prop out for season Newcastle Herald 6 August 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 69 Round 23 – Melbourne moved into second place on the NRL ladder following a 30–24 win against the North Queensland Cowboys. The Storm were in front 20–8 at halftime and 30–14 before the Cowboys scored two late tries.Six tries ensure Storm victory The Age Fairfax Media 8 August 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 26 An angry Chris Anderson was quoted post-match "we can't afford to drop off when we are leading, the good sides just don't do that. At 20–0 we should have gone on with it. We dropped the ball, slipped off tackles, took bad options and generally went to sleep."Storm coach vents anger The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 8 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 67 14 August – Scott Hill suffers serious head injuries after being assaulted outside a nightclub on the NSW north coast.Weidler Danny Star's skull fractured in brawl Sun Herald 15 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 3Toohey Barry Stuart Sarah YOUNG LEAGUE STAR BASHED – Woman hit Hill with post The Daily Telegraph 15 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 1 A 22-year-old woman was later charged with assault for using a steel fence post to hit Hill.Hill assault charges laid The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 19 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 4 Round 24 – Melbourne win their sixth straight match to set a new club record, winning the final home match of the season 44–14 against Western Suburbs, in what was the final meeting between the teams before the Magpies merger with Balmain Tigers to form the Wests Tigers. In his 250th game, Glenn Lazarus kicked the only goal of his first grade career, converting a late try in his farewell to the Olympic Park crowd.Westlake Michael LAZO'S TEARFUL FAREWELL - FANS SALUTE HERO Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 16 August 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 4 (Sport) 18 August – Two Melbourne Storm cheerleaders were sacked by the company who organised the group for dating players. Sophia Triantafillou, the cheer squad's choreographer saying "all the girls understood that if they did conduct relationships with the players, their services would no longer be required."Westlake Michael Cheer girls sacked for dating stars The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 18 August 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 7 Round 25 – North Sydney Bears upset Melbourne 20–24 at North Sydney Oval in was the Bears last ever NRL match at the venue.Gatt Ray Emotional Bears leave their den with surprising win The Australian News Corporation Australia 23 August 1999 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 32 As a result, Melbourne end the season third on the NRL ladder. Before the match, Robbie Kearns failed a fitness test on a thigh injury which had also kept him out of the round 24 match.Cockerill Ian Bears picnic as the Storm strays The Age Fairfax Media 23 August 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 6 (Sport) Kearns would eventually miss the rest of the season with the injury, despite extensive treatment through September.Cockerill Ian Storm pair's woes highlight fickle fortune The Age Fairfax Media 1 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport)Cockerill Ian Storm to miss Kearns The Age Fairfax Media 11 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 19 29 August – Halfback Brett Kimmorley ends speculation he was leaving the club by signing a new two-year contract to stay in Melbourne.Kimmorley re-signs The Age Fairfax Media 31 August 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 7 (Sport) 2 September – At the Dally M Awards, Brett Kimmorley finished fourth with 25 points, six points behind winner Andrew Johns for the Dally M Medal.Keeble Brett Back to back - Joey doubles up with second Dally M award Newcastle Herald 3 September 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 72 Qualifying Final – Sixth-placed St. George Illawarra Dragons upset Melbourne 34–10 at Olympic Park in the first week of the 1999 NRL finals, with Nathan Blacklock scoring a hat trick for the visitors. In poor weather, 15,653 people were at Olympic Park for the match, with Chris Anderson saying after the match "whatever we did didn't pan out. Why, I don't know. Whether we wanted it too much I don't know. We were in a good frame of mind. I'm at a loss to explain why we played that bad."Paxinos Stathi Dragons feast on the Storm The Age Fairfax Media 5 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport) 8 September – Chris Johns announced that Melbourne had extended the contract of forward Matt Rua for a further three seasons.Prentice Tim Internal war rocks Panthers The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 9 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 60 true #FFFFF0 left 30em It's time to stop talking and just do it. This is our season, we don't want it to end here. Personally, I didn't want to end on that sort of a note. I'd like to go another week, possibly two. I think we were a little bit embarrassed into playing like we did today. To play like we did [last week] at Olympic Park was atrocious. Glenn Lazarus, following the semi final against the Bulldogs right Semi Final – Melbourne advance to the preliminary finals with a tight 24–22 win over Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at the Sydney Football Stadium, with Matt Geyer scoring the winning try after replacing Ben Anderson who had been dropped after the loss to St. George Illawarra.Potter David Geyer takes over at five-eighth Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 8 September 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 58 Geyer ran 90 metres to score after picking up a kick from Bulldogs playmaker Ricky Stuart. Craig Smith returned for his first match of the year, converting three tries and kicking a penalty goal in the match.Cockerill Ian Late Storm burst collars Bulldogs The Age Fairfax Media 13 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 1 (Sport)Cockerill Ian A Lazarus effort wins the day The Age Fairfax Media 13 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport)Dunne Jeff Storm window opens to world of experience The Australian News Corporation Australia 13 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 32 Preliminary Final – Coming from 6–16 down midway through the second half, Melbourne stun Parramatta Eels to win 18–16 to progress to the 1999 NRL Grand Final. Melbourne hit the lead with 15 minutes left in the match, with neither team able to score in a frenetic finish. Glenn Lazarus saying in the post match "The faces of the young blokes say it all. They are jubilant. It is a fantastic effort, but there is still one more big game to go."Prichard Greg Shattered dreams - Storm drench Parra's hopes Sun Herald Fairfax Media 19 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 116Melbourne scored three tries from the boot of Brett Kimmorley — two from grubber kicks and one from a high kick that caused a knock-on from the Parramatta defence.Ricketts Steve Storm rain down on Eel parade Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 19 September 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 152 Victorian viewers are left angry as extended coverage of the 1999 Victorian state election results delays live television coverage of the game on GTV-9. 21 September – Stephen Kearney is cleared to play in the Grand Final by the NRL Judiciary, despite NRL Commissioner Jim Hall saying Kearney had "established contact" with the head of Parramatta's Jason Smith's head and neck during the Preliminary Final. Hall was quoted as saying: "I cannot prove there was deliberate contact, and a striking charge must be deliberate."Ricketts Steve Storm forward cleared to play in grand final Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 21 September 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 40 (Sport) 22 September – Melbourne name an unchanged team for the Grand Final, with the injured Robbie Kearns and youngster Brad Watts named as the travelling reserves.THE TEAMS — GRAND FINAL The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 22 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 73 In a bid to prove his fitness in recovering from a torn quadriceps muscle, Kearns admitted "if I was to play, it would break someone's heart in taking his spot, so I will really have to weigh things up before making a final decision."Kearns' fitness touches on sore point Newcastle Herald 22 September 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 92 Three Storm players — Robbie Ross (corked thigh), Craig Smith (shoulder and knee) and Ben Roarty (shoulder) all spent time in recovery in the week leading up to the Grand Final, missing some training sessions, but made it through to take their places in the team.Walter Brad Star chamber - Storm threesome feel the pressure Newcastle Herald 22 September 1999 Newcastle, New South Wales 96 23 September – At the annual Grand Final breakfast, both teams faced off at the Westin Hotel in Sydney.Prentice Tim COLD STORM — Grand final opponents keep their distance The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 23 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 1 Meanwhile, Robbie Kearns ruled himself out of the Grand Final team, making the call to sit out of the match due to his persistent thigh injury.Cockerill Ian Kearns rules himself out of Storm's biggest day The Age Fairfax Media 23 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 7 (Sport) The Dragons were installed as favourites with the bookmakers, Melbourne given a 5.5 points start on FootyTAB, with the head-to-head odds of $1.45 for the Dragons and the Storm at $2.55.THE TEAMS — GRAND FINAL The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 22 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 73Murray Dave Punters spend big on Dragons - 199 NRL grand final week Illawarra Mercury 23 September 1999 Wollongong, New South Wales 57 thumb|Stadium Australia before the 1999 NRL Grand Final Grand Final – In front of a rugby league world record crowd of 107,999, Melbourne Storm staged a comeback 20–18 victory over St. George Illawarra Dragons to win the club's first premiership in just their second season.Paxinos Stathi Never-say-die does it for Melbourne The Age 27 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 2 (Sport) A penalty try to winger Craig Smith awarded by referee Bill Harrigan and video referee Chris Ward decides the outcome. Smith was concussed in the tackle, leaving Matt Geyer to kick the goal to give the Storm the lead. Melbourne had fallen behind by 14 points, failing to score in the first half. Second half tries to Tony Martin and Ben Roarty brought the Storm back into the contest.Gray Kent 1999 grand final rewind: Penalty try helps Storm beat Dragons https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/11/30/1999-grand-final-rewind-penalty-try-helps-storm-beat-dragons/ NRL.com 8 September 2026 30 November 2018 Brett Kimmorley was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal, with Tawera Nikau unlucky not to receive the award, which was voted on by the ARL Kangaroos selectors. Danny Williams celebrated his 100th match in the win.Williams given shot at his sports fantasy Illawarra Mercury 25 September 1999 Wollongong, New South Wales 87 In his final match before retirement, Glenn Lazarus won his fifth Grand Final, saying on the television broadcast "this is just unbelievable. I mean, 14–0 down at half-time, it wasn't looking too good mate. But, ahh... this is meant to be." Thousands of fans greeted the team back to Melbourne after turning Olympic Park into a celebration party.Thousands of fans set to greet Melbourne Storm Australian Associated Press 26 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria The club had hosted a "grand final village" at Gosch's Paddock for fans to watch the match.THINGS TO DO TODAY The Age Fairfax Media 26 September 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 2 (Sport)Baker Richard Cheers and tears as the dream comes true for the underdog Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 27 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 4 true #FFFFF0 left 30em Melbourne have won it! Melbourne have won the Grand Final! A sporting miracle. Melbourne... from 14–nil have won the Grand Final 20 points to 18. Commentator Ray Warren at fulltime in the Grand Final right 4 October – Tawera Nikau signs a two-year contract with Warrington Wolves,Paxinos Stathi Storm opts for youth over Nikau The Age Fairfax Media 5 October 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 3 (Sport) while Craig Smith rejects Melbourne's offer to stay with the club.Westlake Michael Storm loses title heroes The Advertiser News Corporation Australia 5 October 1999 Adelaide, South Australia 60 19 October – Ben Anderson is released by the club.Frilingos Peter Storm sacks son of coach The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 20 October 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 70 Anderson was told of the club's decision by CEO Chris Johns while Chris Anderson was on international duty with the Kangaroos, angering the premiership coach.Walker Mr Coach storm averted The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 7 November 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 62 11 November – It's announced that Melbourne will take on Super League champions St Helens in the return of the World Club Challenge at Wigan on Saturday, 22 January 2000.Storm, St Helens world club decider The Daily Telegraph 11 November 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 66Storm's big day Herald Sun 11 November 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 90 30 November – The club is awarded the Team of the Year (national competition) at the Australian Sport Awards.Sauvage the female athlete of 1999 The Age Fairfax Media 1 December 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 2 (sport)Chynoweth Carly Award shock for big names Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 1 December 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 69 Milestone games Round Player Milestone Round 1 Stephen Kearney Storm debutScott Hill 50th gameRound 5 Marcus Bai 50th gameRound 7 Brett Kimmorley 50th gameRound 10 Richard Swain 50th gameRound 11 Aseri Laing Storm debutRound 13 Tasesa Lavea NRL debutRound 15 Tawera Nikau 100th gameRound 16 Brad Watts NRL debutRound 18 Brett O'Farrell NRL debutRound 22 Robbie Kearns 150th gameRound 23 Russell Bawden 50th gameRound 24 Melbourne Storm 50th gameRound 25 Glenn Lazarus 250th gameGrand Final Danny Williams 100th game Jerseys 100px|thumb|1999 home jersey During the 1998 season, Melbourne struck an apparel sponsorship agreement with Fila to manufacture and merchandise a range of club apparel. The home jersey was redesigned, maintaining the same colours as the 1998 version, but with white thunderbolts in a purple chevron. The gold trim and collars remained, and Honda continued with their sleeve advertisement. A striking gold jersey was also designed as the club's clash colours; with that jersey worn in rounds 10, 15 and 23. Fixtures Pre season Date Rd Round Opponent Venue Result Mel. Melbourne score Opp. Opponent score Tries Goals Field goals Ref Reference12 FebruaryTrialAuckland 16 Auckland WarriorsLang Park, Brisbane1416C Smith, R Ross, S HillC Smith 1/3 http://rleague.com/nrl99/country.htm 1999 NRL Conutry Carnival rleague.com 9 July 2025 https://web.archive.org/web/20000506204209fw_/http://rleague.com/nrl99/country.htm 6 May 2000 deadRugby League - Pre season trial matches The Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media Publications Pty Limited 15 February 1999 3120 FebruaryTrialCanberra 16 Canberra RaidersLavington Sports Ground, Albury2418S Kearney (2), C Smith, M Bai, S HillC Smith, B Kimmorley Storm burst sinks Raiders The Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media Publications Pty Limited 21 February 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 107de Kroo Karl Three-try Lapse Costly For Raiders The Canberra Times Fairfax Media Publications Pty Limited 21 February 1999 Canberra, Australia 13 Regular season Result by round table b Round Ground H/A/A/H/H/A/A/H/H/A/H/–/H/A/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/– Result W/L/W/W/L/W/L/W/W/W/W/B/L/L/L/W/W/L/W/W/W/W/W/W/L/B Position 3/7/4/3/6/5/5/4/4/4/3/3/3/4/6/5/4/7/6/6/5/4/3/2/4/3 Points 2p/2p/4p/6p/6p/8p/8p/10p/12p/14p/16p/18p/18p/18p/18p/20p/22p/22p/24p/26p/28p/30p/32p/34p/34p/36p green1 Win yellow1 Draw red1 Loss Home Away Neutral Bye blue1 gold green2 red2 Rugby League Tables Matches Date Rd Round Opponent Venue Result Mel. Melbourne score Opp. Opponent score Tries Goals Field goals Ref Reference5 March1Penrith 16 Penrith Panthers Olympic Park, Melbourne3210R Bawden, M Geyer, A Moule, R Ross, R SwainM Geyer 6/9https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-1/melbourne-vs-penrith/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 1 27 July 202113 March2Balmain 16 Balmain Tigers Leichhardt Oval, SydneyLost616P BellM Geyer 1/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-2/balmain-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 2 27 July 202121 March3Brisbane 16 Brisbane Broncos ANZ Stadium, Brisbane486R Ross (2), P Bell, W Evans, S Hill, B Kimmorley, T Martin, T NikauM Geyer 8/9https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-3/brisbane-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 3 27 July 202126 March4Canterbury 16 Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Olympic Park, Melbourne2617M Bai (2), S Hill, R Kearns, B KimmorleyM Geyer 3/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-4/melbourne-vs-canterbury/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 4 27 July 20214 April5Cronulla 16 Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Olympic Park, MelbourneLost1620S Hill, P Marquet, B RoartyM Geyer 2/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-5/melbourne-vs-cronulla/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 5 27 July 20219 April6Auckland 16 Auckland Warriors Ericsson Stadium, Auckland3810M Bai (2), P Bell (2), M Geyer (2), R Kearns, B RoartyM Geyer 2/7, B Kimmorley 1/1https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-6/auckland-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 6 27 July 202117 April7Parramatta 16 Parramatta Eels Parramatta Stadium, SydneyLost1426M Bai, M Geyer, S HillM Geyer 1/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-7/parramatta-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 7 27 July 202124 April8Souths 16 South Sydney Rabbitohs Olympic Park, Melbourne5216M Bai (2), M Geyer (2), R Bawden, B Kimmorley, T Martin, B Roarty, R RossM Geyer 8/10https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-8/melbourne-vs-south-sydney/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 8 27 July 20212 May9Brisbane 16 Brisbane Broncos Olympic Park, Melbourne2818R Ross (2), S Hill, M Rua, D WilliamsM Geyer 4/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-9/melbourne-vs-brisbane/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 9 27 July 20218 May10Western Suburbs 16 Western Suburbs Magpies Lathlain Park, Perth626M Geyer (4), R Ross (3), R Bawden, B Kimmorley, T Martin, A MouleM Geyer 9/13https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-10/western-suburbs-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 10 27 July 202115 May11Manly 16 Manly Warringah Sea Eagles Olympic Park, Melbourne286R Ross (2), M Geyer, T Nikau, R SwainM Geyer 4/5https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-11/melbourne-vs-manly/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 11 27 July 202121 May12Bye28 May13St George 16 St George Illawarra Dragons Olympic Park, MelbourneLost1628R Ross (2), M GeyerM Geyer 2/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-13/melbourne-vs-st-george-illawarra/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 13 27 July 20214 June14Canberra 16 Canberra Raiders Bruce Stadium, CanberraLost626A LaingB Kimmorley 1/2https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-14/canberra-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 14 27 July 202112 June15Newcastle 16 Newcastle Knights Marathon Stadium, NewcastleLost2627M Geyer (2), M Bai, T Martin, T NikauM Geyer 3/5https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-15/newcastle-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 15 27 July 202118 June16Easts 16 Sydney City Roosters Olympic Park, Melbourne268S Kearney, T Martin, A Moule, T Nikau, M RuaB Kimmorley 3/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-16/melbourne-vs-sydney-city/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 16 27 July 202127 June17Manly 16 Manly Warringah Sea Eagles Brookvale Oval, Sydney1918B Kimmorley (2), B RoartyM Geyer 3/5B Kimmorleyhttps://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-17/manly-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 17 27 July 20212 July18Parramatta 16 Parramatta Eels Olympic Park, MelbourneLost620R RossM Geyer 1/1https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-18/melbourne-vs-parramatta/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 18 27 July 202110 July19Canterbury 16 Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Stadium Australia, Sydney2024A Moule (2), M Bai, M Geyer, B WattsM Geyer 2/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-19/canterbury-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 19 27 July 202116 July20Canberra 16 Canberra Raiders Olympic Park, Melbourne3010B Watts (2), M Bai, T Martin, R RossM Geyer 5/7https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-20/melbourne-vs-canberra/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 20 27 July 202125 July21Cronulla 16 Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Shark Park, Sydney2618S Kearney (2), B Anderson, M Geyer, R RossM Geyer 3/5https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-21/sharks-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 21 27 July 20211 August22Auckland 16 Auckland Warriors Olympic Park, Melbourne1614M Geyer, P Marquet, A MouleM Geyer 2/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-22/melbourne-vs-auckland/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 22 27 July 20217 August23North Queensland 16 North Queensland Cowboys Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville3024M Bai, R Bawden, P Bell, B Kimmorley, R Ross, M RuaM Geyer 3/7https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-23/north-queensland-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 23 27 July 202115 August24Western Suburbs 16 Western Suburbs Magpies Olympic Park, Melbourne4414M Rua (2), R Howe, B Kimmorley, G Lazarus, T Martin, R Ross, B WattsM Geyer 5/7, G Lazarus 1/1https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-24/melbourne-vs-western-suburbs/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 24 27 July 202122 August25Norths 16 North Sydney Bears North Sydney Oval, Sydney Lost2024R Bawden, M Geyer, A Moule, R RossM Geyer 2/5https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/round-25/north-sydney-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 1999 – Round 25 27 July 202128 August26Bye Source:https://afltables.com/rl/teams/melbourne/melbourne_by.html#1999 Rugby League Tables – Melbourne 27 July 2021 Finals #eeeeee Qualifying final Saturday, 4 September 14:30 AEST (UTC+10) Melbourne Storm Melbourne 16 St George 16St. George Illawarra Dragons 10 – 34 4–10 6–24 Report 2Moule 20Kearney 48 1Geyer 48 (1/3) 6Blacklock 63 70 78McGregor 15Wishart 27Ainscough 43 5Bartrim 15 43 70 78 (4/4)Mackay 63 (1/2) Olympic Park, Melbourne 15,653 Bill Harrigan #eeeeee Semi final Sunday, 12 September 14:30 AEST (UTC+10) Melbourne Storm Melbourne 16 Canterbury 16 Canterbury Bulldogs 24 – 22 18–12 6–10 Report 4Geyer 29 69Bai 3Ross 13 4Smith 14 30 pen 39 70 (4/5) 4Silva 7El Masri 24S Hughes 55Sherwin 61 3Halligan 8 24 62 (3/4) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney 20,075 Steve Clark #eeeeee Preliminary final Saturday, 18 September 19:30 AEST (UTC+10) Parramatta Eels Parramatta 16 Melbourne 16 Melbourne Storm 16 – 18 16–6 0–12 Report 2Wagon 10Kelly 37 4Schifcofske pen 7 11 pen 32 38 (4/5) 3Kimmorley 22Moule 55Swain 63 3Smith 23 56 64 (3/3) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney 27,555 Bill Harrigan 1999 NRL Grand final scoreboard Ladder 1999 NRL season 1999 Coaching Staff Head coach: Chris Anderson Assistant coaches: Greg Brentnall & Steve Anderson Football Manager: Michael Moore Head physiotherapist: Tony Ayoub Head Trainer: Steve Litvensky Trainer: Aaron Salisbury 1999 squad List current as of 27 July 2021Storm players (1999) http://www.melbournestorm.com.au/players/Playerlist.asp melbournestorm.com.au 27 July 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/19991002040713/http://www.melbournestorm.com.au/players/Playerlist.asp 2 October 1999 List of Melbourne Storm players Capfn1 Players are listed with the cap number as they appear on the Melbourne Storm honour board. Additional squad members do not have a cap number.Nat.Player namePositionFirst Storm GamePrevious First Grade RL clubfn2 This column denotes the previous RL club the player was signed to and played first grade RL for. If they are yet to debut then this is stipulated. If they were merely signed to the club but did not play then it is not counted.1AUSRobbie RossFB1998AUS Hunter Mariners2AUSCraig SmithWG1998AUS Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogsfn3 Reserve grade 1997, previous first grade experience with North Sydney Bears in 1994 3AUSAaron MouleWG, CE1998AUS South Queensland Crushers4AUSPaul BellCE1998AUS Perth Reds5PNGMarcus BaiWG1998AUS Gold Coast Chargers6AUSScott HillFE1998AUS Hunter Mariners7AUSBrett KimmorleyHB1998AUS Hunter Mariners8AUSRodney HowePR1998AUS Perth Reds9AUSDanny WilliamsLK, SR, HK1998AUS North Sydney Bears10AUSRobbie KearnsPR1998AUS Perth Reds11AUSPaul MarquetPR, SR1998AUS Hunter Mariners12AUSBen RoartyPR, SR, LK1998AUS Melbourne Storm13NZLTawera NikauLK1998AUS Cronulla Sharks14AUSGlenn LazarusPR1998AUS Brisbane Broncos15NZLRichard SwainHK1998AUS Hunter Mariners16AUSRussell BawdenPR1998AUS Brisbane Broncos18AUSMatt GeyerWG1998AUS Perth Reds19AUSWayne EvansSR1998AUS Perth Reds20AUSBen AndersonFE1998AUS Melbourne Storm21AUSTony MartinWG, CE1998ENG London Broncos23AUSWade FentonSR, PR1998AUS Melbourne Storm24PNGJohn WilshereCE1998AUS Perth Reds25AUSDaniel FramePR, SR1998AUS Melbourne Storm26NZLMatt RuaPR, SR1998AUS Melbourne Storm28NZLStephen KearneySR1999NZL Auckland Warriors29FIJAseri LaingWG1999AUS Western Suburbs Magpies30NZLTasesa LaveaFE1999AUS Melbourne Storm31AUSBrad WattsFB1999AUS Melbourne Storm32AUSBrett O'FarrellPR1999AUS Melbourne StormNZLTai LaveaFBYet to debutAUS Melbourne StormNZLPaul RauhihiPRYet to debutAUS Melbourne Stormfn5 Released mid-seasonAUSPeter RobinsonSRYet to debutAUS Melbourne Storm Player movements Losses John Carlaw to Balmain TigersWHERE PLAYERS ARE HEADED IN 1999 The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 27 December 1998 Sydney, New South Wales 59 Paul Rauhihi to Newcastle Knightsfn5 Released mid-season John Wilshere to Released Gains Stephen Kearney from Auckland Warriors Aseri Laing from Western Suburbs Magpies Tasesa Lavea from Junior All Blacks Tai Lavea from Junior All Blacks Peter Robinson from Cobar Roosters 1999 Premiership Team Melbourne Storm #440085 white #092340 #FED102 13 August 2020 1999 Premiership Team  1 AUS FB Robbie Ross  2 AUS WG Craig Smith  3 AUS CE Aaron Moule  4 AUS CE Tony Martin  5 PNG WG Marcus Bai  6 AUS FE Matt Geyer  7 AUS HB Brett Kimmorley  8 AUS PR Glenn Lazarus y  9 AUS HK Richard Swain 10 AUS PR Rodney Howe 11 AUS SR Stephen Kearney 12 NZL SR Paul Marquet 13 NZL LK Tawera Nikau Interchange 14 AUS Matt Rua 15 NZL Russell Bawden 16 AUS Ben Roarty 17 AUS Danny Williams Coach Chris Anderson Representative honours This table lists all players who have played a representative match in 1999. List of Melbourne Storm representatives Player 1999 ANZAC Test State of Origin 1 State of Origin 2 State of Origin 3 1999 Tri-Nations Matt GeyerNew South WalesNew South WalesNew South Wales Rodney HoweNew South WalesNew South WalesNew South WalesAustralia Glenn LazarusAustralia New South Wales Stephen KearneyNew Zealand Robbie KearnsAustraliaAustralia Brett KimmorleyAustralia Robbie RossNew South WalesNew South WalesNew South WalesAustralia Matt RuaNew Zealand Richard SwainNew Zealand Statistics This table contains playing statistics for all Melbourne Storm players to have played in the 1999 NRL season. Statistics sources:https://afltables.com/rl/teams/melbourne/melbourne1999_sc.html 1999 Melbourne Point Scorers afltables.com 27 July 2021https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-1999/melbourne/summary.html Melbourne Storm – NRL 1999 rugbyleagueproject.org 27 July 2021 List of Melbourne Storm records NameAppearancesTriesGoalsField goalsPointsBen Anderson Ben Anderson (rugby league) 131004Marcus Bai 28120048Russell Bawden 2750020Paul Bell Paul Bell (rugby league) 1450020Wayne Evans Wayne Evans (rugby league) 121004Matt Geyer 2620810242Scott Hill Scott Hill (rugby league) 1250020Rodney Howe 171004Stephen Kearney 2240016Robbie Kearns 132008Brett Kimmorley 2895147Aseri Laing 51004Tasesa Lavea 10000Glenn Lazarus 261106Paul Marquet 282008Tony Martin Tony Martin (rugby league) 2580032Aaron Moule 2590036Tawera Nikau 2640016Brett O'Farrell Brett O'Farrell (rugby league) 10000Ben Roarty 2250020Robbie Ross Robbie Ross (rugby league) 25200080Matt Rua 2650020Craig Smith Craig Smith (rugby league, born 1973) 3110024Richard Swain 2830012Brad Watts 940016Danny Williams Danny Williams (rugby league, born 1973) 14100426 players used — 129 97 1 711 Scorers Most points in a game: 34 points fn11 New club record Round 10 – Matt Geyer (4 tries, 9 Goals) vs Western Suburbs Magpies Most tries in a game: 4 fn11 Round 10 – Matt Geyer vs Western Suburbs Magpies Winning games Highest score in a winning game: 62 points Round 10 vs Western Suburbs Magpies Lowest score in a winning game: 16 points Round 22 vs Auckland Warriors Greatest winning margin: 54 points Round 10 vs Western Suburbs Magpies Greatest number of games won consecutively: 6 Round 19 – Round 24 Losing games Highest score in a losing game: 26 points Round 15 vs Newcastle Knights Lowest score in a losing game: 6 points Round 2 vs Balmain Tigers Round 14 vs Canberra Raiders Round 18 vs Parramatta Eels Greatest losing margin: 24 points Qualifying Final vs St George Illawarra Dragons Greatest number of games lost consecutively: 3 Round 13 – Round 15 NRL Judiciary A number of Melbourne players were cited by the match review committee for incidents through the 1999 season, with the following results from the NRL Judiciary. + Round Player Offence & grade ResultNRLJudiciary 100 demerit points equals one match suspension. Ref Reference Round 3 Stephen Kearney Dangerous throw (grade 1) 5 matches (515 demerit points) Round 4 Tawera Nikau Careless high tackle (grade 3) 2 matches (251 demerit points) Cockerill Ian Another Kiwi lost to Storm The Age Fairfax Media 31 March 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 9 (Sport) Round 5 Wayne Evans Careless high tackle (grade 2) No matches (93 demerit points) Round 6 Rodney Howe Careless high tackle (grade 2) 1 match (140 demerit points) Round 17 Stephen Kearney Careless high tackle (grade 2)Downgrade Successfully downgraded to grade 1. 1 match (141 demerit points) Round 17 Rodney Howe Striking (grade 2) 2 matches (204 demerit points) Cockerill Ian Storm's forward stocks take a hit The Age Fairfax Media 30 June 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport) Round 22 Stephen Kearney Contrary conduct (grade 1) Not guilty Cockerill Ian In-form Storm forward cleared The Age Fairfax Media 4 August 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 7 (Sport) Feeder team Melbourne Storm reserve players again travelled to Brisbane each week to play with Queensland Cup team Norths Devils. Backing up the successful 1998 season by finishing second on the ladder, Norths Devils fell one game short of the 1999 Queensland Cup Grand Final, losing to eventual runners-up Redcliffe Dolphins in the Preliminary Final. Kevin Carmichael won his second straight player of the year award, in a tie with Matt Bickerstaff.Tie for annual Devils' honour Northern News 14 October 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 35 In February it was reported that the club were lobbying the New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) for approval to establish a sister club for Melbourne to populate a team in the NSWRL junior representatives competitions. Melbourne had been talking to several clubs, including Cabramatta, who would be renamed the Cabramatta Storm if the arrangement was approved.Ritchie Dean Storm sweeps Sydney The Daily Telegraph 6 February 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 150 1999 Queensland Cup 1999 Queensland Cup Pos PositionTeam Pld Games played W Won D Drawn L Lost PF Points for (total points scored) PA Points against (total points conceded) PD Points difference (points scored minus points conceded) Pts Competition points2Norths Devils 16 Norths Devils2217 0 5 791 393 +398 34 Awards and honours Trophy Cabinet 1999 Provan-Summons Trophy Australian Sport Awards Team of the Year (National) Melbourne Storm Awards Night Held on Friday, 1 October:Paxinos Stathi Docklands can handle both codes: Storm The Age Fairfax Media 2 October 1999 Melbourne, Victoria 18 (Sport) Melbourne Storm Player of the Year: Brett KimmorleyNRL Honour Board http://www.melbournestorm.com.au/default.aspx?s=nrl-honour-board melbournestorm.com.au Melbourne Storm 10 February 2014 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20130928161940/http://www.melbournestorm.com.au/default.aspx?s=nrl-honour-board 28 September 2013 PLAYER OF THE YEAR: BRETT KIMMORLEY http://www.melbournestorm.com.au/players/Playerlist.asp melbournestorm.com.au 17 April 2024 https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/19991108220315/http://www.melbournestorm.com.au/players/Playerlist.asp 9 November 1999 Melbourne, Australia dead Melbourne Storm Rookie of the Year: Matt Rua Melbourne Storm Members' Player of Year: Brett Kimmorley Melbourne Storm Clubman of the Year: Paul Marquet Mick Moore Chairman's Award: Glenn Lazarus Dally M Awards Night Held at Horden Pavilion on Thursday, 2 September:Ritchie Dean Andrew Johns makes it a Dally M double - THIS ONE'S FOR RENAE The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 3 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 128Potter David Johns wins Dally M a second time Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 3 September 1999 Brisbane, Queensland 48 Dally M Top Pointscorer: Matt Geyer Additional Awards Clive Churchill Medal: Brett Kimmorley Rugby League Annual – Players of the Year: Brett Kimmorley Rugby League Annual – Team of the Year: Glenn Lazarus (PR) Rugby League Annual – Team of the Year: Stephen Kearney (SR) 2UE Player of the Year: Brett KimmorleyMascord Steve Storm to be fined over trainer playing coach Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 18 September 1999 Sydney, New South Wales 58 Notes References 1999 Category:1999 NRL season by club Category:1999 in sport in Melbourne