2001 Melbourne Storm season

2001 #6C0094 #ffd700 NRL NRL 9th 11 1 14 704 725 Executive Director John Ribot Coach Chris Anderson Mark Murray Robbie Kearns (23 matches) Rodney Howe (2 matches) Robbie Ross (1 match) Docklands Stadium 11,969Crowds Regular season home matches in Melbourne only 15,470 (Round 21)Crowds Regular season home matches in Melbourne only Matt Orford (15), Aaron Moule (15) Matt Orford (78) Matt Orford (216) 2000 2002 yes List of Melbourne Storm seasons The 2001 Melbourne Storm season was the fourth in the club's history. They competed in the NRL's 2001 Telstra Premiership and finished the regular season in ninth place.2001 season scores https://afltables.com/rl/seas/2001.html afltables.com 20 October 2026 The 2001 season was the least successful in the Storm's history, missing the play-offs for the first time. After making a decision to move base from Olympic Park to the larger Colonial Stadium, the club seemed to lack the support, atmosphere and composure they had built up. It reflected in the team's on field performances, losing four of their first six homes games and seven from their opening ten overall. Amidst this time the Storm was rocked when coach Chris Anderson quit the club after the 42–18 loss to Parramatta in round 7. Speaking to the media following the coaching change, Executive Director John Ribot said that Anderson "has helped write a fantastic chapter in rugby league at Melbourne. Winning the competition (in 1999) was one of those magic moments in sport. It is a great springboard for our future. We have to make sure we don't waste those first years. We have to build on that. We've got a taste of success and want more." Along with captain Robbie Kearns, hooker Richard Swain, and halfback Matt Orford, replacement coach Mark Murray lifted the Storm from their bad beginning. Murray's disciplined approach to training and adjusted defensive structure put the club back on track through the middle of the season. After his appointment, Melbourne won seven of their next ten games to reach as high as sixth place on the NRL ladder by round 18. But the bad start to the season had taken its toll, and with the 2001 finals in sight they won only two more games. A last round loss to Canberra saw the Storm finish outside the final eight places. The 2001 season continued to mark the endurability of Kiwi Test hooker Swain. He was on the field for every minute of the Storm's season and had yet to miss a game for Melbourne in the club's history.Melbourne Storm History https://www.melbournestorm.com.au/about/storm-history/ melbournestorm.com.au Melbourne Storm 7 March 2018Beikoff Katrina Every minute counts for league's leading pair The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 7 April 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 146 Season summary 10 January – Melbourne appoint new assistant coach Anthony Griffin following the departure of Steve Anderson. Griffin had previously been the coach of the Norths Devils junior team.Gullan Scott Coach to Leeds Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 10 January 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 78 27 January – In their first preseason match, Melbourne defeated Penrith 40–18 in Albury.Peart Katie Storm off to flying start Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 29 January 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 55 Before the match, five friends of Storm rookie Nic Henderson were killed when their car was hit by the New South Wales XPT at a level crossing near Albury on their way to the match from Wagga Wagga.'Shattered' Storm in mourning again Cairns Post News Corporation Australia 29 January 2001 Cairns, Queensland 17 (Sport)Lawrence Kara Death of five 'good blokes' stuns town The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 29 January 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 9 1 February – The club confirms its 25-man squad for the season with Jason Wrigley, Marty Turner, Glen Turner, Nic Henderson and Tai Lavea set to head to Norths Devils after missing out on the final cut to the squad. Chris Anderson quoted as saying "it's a very good, strong squad with a good blend of young blokes and senior players and we'll be very competitive. We didn't achieve what we wanted to achieve last season and I'm really looking forward to the year ahead."Vernon Ben Wasted season a spur, says Ando Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 1 February 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 93 2 February – In the club's final preseason match, former Storm halfback Brett Kimmorley got one back against his old teammates, leading the Northern Eagles to a 40–30 win at Brookvale Oval. Matt Orford scored two tries for Melbourne in the match.Ritchie Dean Kimmorley sinks his former mates The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 3 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 130Walter Brad Eagles win but get a reminder of what they lost in Orford Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 3 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 75Zwar Adam Matt hits the spot Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 4 February 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 214 13 February – Melbourne were fined 23,500 for breaches of the NRL Salary Cap rules for the 2000 season.Frilingos Peter NRL'S 'SOFT' FINES - Broncos chief blasts salary cap penalties - Broncos blast league The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 13 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 68Vernon Ben Storm seething over salary breach fine Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 13 February 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 86 Round 1 – 15,070 fans watch the first ever Australian rugby league game played indoors,Historic fresh start for Storm, Dogs - Indoors and at new venue Illawarra Mercury 17 February 2001 Wollongong, New South Wales 70 as Melbourne go down 14–10 against Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at Colonial Stadium. The Bulldogs led 8–2 at half time, but surrendered that advantage after the break, before scoring a try through Willie Mason in the final ten minutes to take the win.Berry Jamie Bulldogs reign indoors The Age Fairfax Media 19 February 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 3 (Sport)Krupka Peter New home fails to inspire Storm The Australian News Corporation Australia 19 February 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 23 (Sport) Storm officials were disappointed with the attendance under the roof, with high summer temperatures a contributing factor.Beikoff Katrina Closed call and coach hits roof The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 19 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 43 Referee Tim Mander, the touch judges and video referees are dropped after the round for failing to send off Storm pr forward Rodney Howe for a reckless high tackle on Steve Price.Hu Andrew Sheens calls on referee not to over-react Townsville Bulletin News Corporation Australia 3 March 2001 Townsville, Queensland 86 Howe is suspended for six games after pleading guilty to the charge.Frilingos Peter BANNED 36 WEEKS IN FIVE SEASONS - Rodney Howe's disgraceful record - Howe suspended for six weeks The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 20 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 68 Round 2 – Continuing their poor start to the season, Melbourne fell behind 22–6 during the first half of their match against the North Queensland Cowboys. The Storm attempted a comeback late in the second half, scoring 22 points, but fell to a second successive defeat, losing 32–28 at their new home ground.Undercover Cowboys turn Storm inside out Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 25 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 119Zwar Adam Shocker for Storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 25 February 2001 Melbourne, Victoria S09 There was a complaint from the Cowboys about the banner displayed by the Storm before the match which described the Cowboys as the weakest link. Cowboys CEO Rabieh Krayem contacting the NRL to complain saying: "humour has a place in rugby league but the banner the Storm came up with wasn't funny. I think you'll find that the NRL has a bit to say to the Storm about the issue."Humphries Andrew Relations turn stormy after Cowboys' trip south Townsville Bulletin News Corporation Australia 1 March 2001 Townsville, Queensland 41 1 March – Chris Anderson takes to the media to deny reports that he was set to quit the club after being linked to other head coaching roles. There were also rumours that Anderson had fallen out with club management during contract negotiations.Vernon Ben Ando: I'm here to stay Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 1 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 92 Round 3 – Melbourne notch their first win of the season, defeating the St. George Illawarra Dragons 20–16 in Wollongong. Halfback Matt Orford scored the winning try with eight minutes remaining. Brad Watts scored two tries in the match.Walter Brad Orford breaks Storm's drought Sun Herald Fairfax Media 4 March 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 92Vernon Ben Storm drought ends Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 4 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria S06 4 March – Chris Anderson admits that he is in conflict with the club, writing in his weekly newspaper column: "obviously with me, there is a conflict with the place I am working at. But that is no one's problem but mine. It is something I will have to work out with my club and my players. To be linked with other jobs is a process that the media takes on, and I understand that."Chris Anderson Chris Anderson (rugby) Lay off Muz - Speculation unfair on Rooster coach The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 4 March 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 60Coach admits Storm conflict Cairns Post News Corporation Australia 5 March 2001 Cairns, Queensland 13 (Sport) Round 4 – Melbourne defeat the Cronulla Sharks 34–24, breaking through for their first win at Colonial Stadium for the season. The Storm had the benefit of a couple of contentious referee decisions during the match. Matt Geyer scored a try on the fulltime siren, touching down following a break from Matt Orford.Vernon Ben Storm break Colonial duck - Sharks upset by rulings Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 12 March 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 5 (Sport)Roy Masters Roy Masters (rugby league) Daylight second and so are the Sharks as video referee brews up a Storm Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 12 March 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 23 (Sport) Referees boss Peter Louis later backing the referee and video referee's decisions and that they had followed the correct procedures.Vernon Ben Referees' right call Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 13 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 75 Round 5 – Against a depleted Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval, Melbourne are humbled 40–10 to slump to their worst loss of the season so far.Potter David Spirited Tigers send Storm into a spin - Hopoate back to old form Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 19 March 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 2 (Sport) Centre Aaron Moule was reported by the referee for kicking during a sideline melee late in the match.Frilingos Peter Against all odds The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 19 March 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 35Vernon Ben Moule kicks up a Storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 19 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 34 Moule was not be charged by the match review. Round 6 – Despite a ruling from the NRL, the Colonial Stadium roof stays open due to a "technical glitch" for Melbourne's game against the Newcastle Knights.Vernon Ben Roof jams at Colonial Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 26 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 39Storm gates open on roof The Advertiser News Corporation Australia 26 March 2001 Adelaide, South Australia 52Berry Jamie Denham Greg Stadium roof again causes problems The Age Fairfax Media 26 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 1 (Sport) The match was played a day after the venue hosted a disaster relief concert,Keeble Brett Grounds for concern - Colonial ready to rock around the clock Newcastle Herald 24 March 2001 Newcastle, New South Wales 125 with parts of the much-maligned turf having been relaid before the match. Melbourne suffered another defeat at the venue, falling behind 30–0 in the first half. They recovered in the second half, to lose 36–28 after scoring five tries.Berry Jamie Storm plays Jekyll and Hyde role again The Age Fairfax Media 26 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) Chris Anderson calling the team "atrocious,"Angry Anderson runs short on patience Newcastle Herald 26 March 2001 Newcastle, New South Wales 24 with the team missing 35 tackles in the match, double that of the Knights.Keeble Brett Knights strike early Newcastle Herald 29 March 2001 Newcastle, New South Wales 34 Robbie Ross suffered his second hamstring injury of the season in the loss. He had previously missed two matches with the injury.Injury cloud follows Storm star Illawarra Mercury 29 March 2001 Wollongong, New South Wales 56 It was also reported that Rodney Howe and Danny Williams were involved in a punch-up at training before the match during an informal game of cricket.Vernon Ben Troubled club plays down brawl Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 26 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 45Adams Tony Here's mud in your eye - League's weekend of off-field madness The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 27 March 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 64 Round 7 – Melbourne lost their third match in a row, falling 42–18 against the Parramatta Eels. The Storm were behind 18–0 at half time as the home team rode their luck to score three tries. After half time, Melbourne reduced the margin to six points, but the Eels ran in four tries in eight minutes to cruise to victory.Vernon Ben Eels humble Storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 1 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria S14 Despite the loss, Chris Anderson was pleased with the team's performance "for the first time this year I think I can see a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel. But every time we got into the game we kept shooting ourselves in the foot. I hadn't seen any light until now so there was some improvement."Vernon Ben Forget the loss, Ando sees the light Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 2 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 59 true #FFFFF0 left 30em Things weren't working out between myself and the club and it was better that we end it now. We were coming at it from different backgrounds. I come from a traditional club and (Chris Johns) and Ribot come from the Brisbane Broncos and we all got fed up. There were three strong personalities and we all had different ways of going about things and it was starting to affect my performance and that of the team. Chris Anderson following his resignation as head coachMagnay Jacquelin Anderson, Ribot fed up The Age Fairfax Media 4 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 3 (Sport) right 2 April – Head coach Chris Anderson quits after the club's poor start to the season and rumours of a falling out with club management.Toohey Barry FORCED TO QUIT STORM - Anderson makes way for Murray The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 3 April 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 68Vernon Ben STORM COACH FORCED OUT Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 3 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 80 It had been reported that Anderson had already been signed as the replacement for the outgoing Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks coach John Lang.Walter Brad Anderson storms off to the Sharks Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 3 April 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 40Middleton David Rugby League 2002 2002 Harper Sports Sydney 0732274664 Norths Devils coach Mark Murray was installed as caretaker coach, with captain Robbie Kearns hearing the news about Anderson from the media. Another sticking point in the breakdown in the relationship between Anderson and Storm management was the difference in coaching philosophy, and the way Ben Anderson was released by the Storm at the end of the 1999 season.Vernon Ben Frilingos Peter We're sick of each other - Anderson blames feud with Ribot and Johns Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 4 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 86Ritchie Dean Ritchie's Roast The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 6 April 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 74 true #FFFFF0 left 30em At the back of everybody's mind is the fear that Mark Murray might have a few ideas of his own and we hope that he won't upend us. We have a good structure. No one thought (Anderson) would go during the season. The earliest we thought something might happen was at the end of the season. There are a few players very disappointed because Chris was a great guy and a terrific coach to us and we would have liked him to stick with us. Robbie Kearns, after receiving the news of the departure of Chris Anderson right 5 April – It's revealed that the club had approached former Brisbane Broncos captain Kevin Walters to take over from Mark Murray as coach at the Norths Devils.KEV'S DILEMMA - Storm leading race for Brisbane great Cairns Post News Corporation Australia 5 April 2001 Cairns, Queensland 40 Walters eventually stayed with the Broncos after the Brisbane club offered him a new role in their coaching structure.Potter David Broncos move to keep Walters Courier Mail 5 April 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 36No place like home as Walters snubs Storm Cairns Post News Corporation Australia 7 April 2001 Cairns, Queensland 132 Murray meanwhile would be coach of the Storm without a formal contract, having only a "handshake agreement" with John Ribot.Ricketts Steve Murray to coach without contract Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 5 April 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 34Walter Brad Storm deal: no contract for Murray Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 5 April 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 46 Round 8 – In the club's first match under new coach Mark Murray, Melbourne push defending premier Brisbane to a close 18–16 loss, the Storm's fourth straight defeat. Marcus Bai had scored a late try to bring the Storm within two points, but the sideline conversion attempt from Matt Orford missed with three minutes remaining. Melbourne were then unable to steal the victory in the final minutes. Rodney Howe returned from suspension in the match after missing the previous six matches through suspension. It was the Broncos first win against Melbourne since the 1998 season.Berry Jamie Storm goes down again, but things are looking u The Age Fairfax Media 9 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 6 (Sport)Vernon Ben Storm runs out of time, but not heart Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 9 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 63 9 April – Storm owners News Limited indicate that the company was willing to sell its 50% share of the North Queensland Cowboys, but had no intention of deserting Melbourne. News Limited assuring the club, of which it was the 70% major shareholder.Magnay Jacquelin Chief sees calm after the storm The Age Fairfax Media 4 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 3 (Sport) CEO Malcolm Noad saying: "we still fund Melbourne, but they are a reasonably young club. They, too, will be expected to stand on their feet in the reasonably near future."Mascord Steve Walter Brad Prichard Greg News Ltd stands by the Storm but offers to offload North Queensland Sydney Morning Herald Fairfax Media 9 April 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 23 (Sport) Round 9 – On Good Friday, hb Matt Orford outpoints former Melbourne halfback Brett Kimmorley in the former Storm halfback's first game in Northern Eagles colours against Melbourne. Aaron Moule equals the club record with four tries in the game.2002 Melbourne Storm Info Guide Melbourne StormMagnay Jacquelin Hot homecoming for Kimmorley The Age Fairfax Media 14 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 13 (Sport) Scores had been tied at 12–all at half time before Melbourne scored seven tries in the second half to take a confidence building victory.Vernon Ben Orford kick-starts Storm avalanche Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 14 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 81Payten Iain Moule says it with four tries The Australian News Corporation Australia 14 April 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 54 Round 10 – After building a 16–6 lead in the first half, Melbourne are run down by the Sydney Roosters to lose 23–22 with Paul Green slotting a field goal two minutes from the fulltime. In a physical match, costly errors from Melbourne were noted by the Storm players following the match, while Mark Murray said after the match that "we didn't play as well as we should have in the first half with the ball and didn't play as well as we should have in the second half without the ball."Payten Iain Winger storms past Melbourne The Australian News Corporation Australia 23 April 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 27 (Sport)Ritchie Dean We were culpable says Kearns The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 23 April 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 38Vernon Ben Storm blows hot and cold Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 23 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 67 Referee Steve Clark came under criticism from club CEO Chris Johns for not using the video referee on a decision not to award a potential try to Russell Bawden early in the second half after the forward looked to have grounded the ball over the line.Vernon Ben Ump's decision angers Storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 24 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 78 24 April – Former head coach Chris Anderson is appointed head coach of Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks from the 2002 season.Licking his lips - Anderson to sign with Sharks today Gold Coast Bulletin News Corporation Australia 24 April 2001 Gold Coast, Queensland 40Payten Iain Home among the Sharks The Australian News Corporation Australia 25 April 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 19 (Sport) Round 11 – The Storm bounce back to score eight tries in a 58–14 thrashing of the Penrith Panthers. Melbourne had led 14–4 at half time,Berry Jamie Storm warning: big win proves it's a force again The Age Fairfax Media 30 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport) with both Danny Williams and Matt Orford each scoring two tries. Robbie Ross returned from injury in the match, while both Rodney Howe and Robbie Kearns impressed ahead of Origin selection.Vernon Ben Near-perfect Storm humiliate Panthers Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 30 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 63 Round 12 – In the club's first trip back to Auckland since the death of football manager Mick Moore in 2000,Vernon Ben Kearns Robbie Memories of Mick to lift Storm over line Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 11 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 114 Melbourne continued their good form to take a 40–20 victory to retain the Michael Moore Trophy. The Storm shot out to an early advantage, leading 24–2 at half time, extending that advantage to 40–8 before the home team scored two consolation tries.Fuller Mark Storm surges towards the eight The Age Fairfax Media 13 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 17 (Sport)Vernon Ben Storm does it for Mick Herald Sun Fairfax Media 13 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria S18Bell Cameron Muppett pulls Storm strings The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 13 May 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 58 Round 13 – Missing captain Robbie Kearns through a minor rib injury,Vernon Ben Kearns cools his heels Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 19 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 85 Robbie Ross was named as stand-in captain for the Storm in their thrilling 32–28 win over the Canberra Raiders at Colonial Stadium. Matt Geyer had scored two tries in the match, but with scores level at 28–all, Peter Robinson scored a solo try three minutes from fulltime to win the match. Robinson diving over from dummy half after fooling the Raiders with a dummy pass.Fuller Mark Robinson saves Storm, again The Age Fairfax Media 20 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 18 (Sport) The club's third win in a row took Melbourne into the top eight for the first time since round 4.Zwar Adam Storm's close shave Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 20 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria S15The win was soured by another injury concern for Ross, who left the field during the second half with a reoccurance of his hamstring injury.Bell Cameron Storm trooper breaks Raiders The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 20 May 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 64 24 May – FB Robbie Ross undergoes surgery on a chronic hamstring injury that is expected to sideline him for six weeks. In his place, Melbourne select former Australian Schoolboys rugby union halfback Paul Sheedy.Fuller Mark First-gamer to replace Ross The Age Fairfax Media 23 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport) 25 May – Melbourne poach St. George Illawarra Dragons junior coach Peter O'Sullivan to work as a talent scout for the club.Suttor Paul Junior coach quits Illawarra Mercury 25 May 2001 Wollongong, New South Wales 76 Round 14 – Richard Swain played his 100th consecutive first grade game. Swain had played every minute of the season to date, the only forward across the NRL to do so.MacSmith James Hooker Swain has the power - Century mark just another big number Sun Herald Fairfax Media 27 May 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 83 With both Robbie Kearns and Robbie Ross injured, Rodney Howe is appointed as acting captain for the match after impressing coach Mark Murray.Fuller Mark Howe steps up as Storm captain The Age Fairfax Media 26 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 16 (Sport)Vernon Ben It's captain Howe Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 26 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 85 A hoodoo team for Melbourne,Zwar Adam A hoodoo guru Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 27 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria S21 the Bulldogs beat the Storm 28–26 with centre Nigel Vagana scoring three tries. Melbourne almost stole the result late in the match, falling short after trailling by 12 points with Matt Orford unable to convert a try by Marcus Bai in the final minutes to force a draw.Walton Darren Bulldog coach not rapt Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 28 May 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 5 (Sport)Vernon Ben Storm fails with backline gamble Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 28 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 61Vernon Ben Murray puts referee under scrutiny Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 28 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 61 Round 15 – Without Robbie Kearns again,Vernon Ben Storm opt not to risk Kearns Herald Sun 2 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 93 Melbourne made hard work of a 38–24 victory over the North Queensland Cowboys, almost letting go of a 22–6 half time lead. The Cowboys got to within four points of the Storm, before late tries to Stephen Kearney and Henry Perenara sealed the win.Vernon Ben Storm outgun Cowboys Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 3 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria S18Potter David Storm climbs ladder Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 3 June 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 140 Stand-in captain Rodney Howe was injured in the match, as was Aaron Moule. Howe would miss one match after surgery on his left knee.Vernon Ben Storm lapses worry Murray Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 4 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 63Howe to miss two Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 6 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 78 Round 16 – Tasesa Lavea becomes the first Melbourne player to be an unused interchange player in club history.NRL 2001 - Round 16 https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-16/melbourne-vs-st-george-illawarra/summary.html Rugby League Project 9 August 2021 Fifita Moala makes his first appearance for the season after injuring his knee during the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.Speedy recovery The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 16 June 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 140Moala scored a try in a high-scoring match, as Melbourne defeated the Dragons 34–28 at Colonial Stadium. Matt Geyer scored the match-winning try following a 90-metre run, one of two very long-range tries Melbourne scored in the match.Fuller Mark Storm puts out Dragons' fire The Age Fairfax Media 18 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport)Cormick Brendan Dragons face axe after Storm surge The Australian News Corporation Australia 18 June 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 26 (Sport)Kent Paul When coaches beg to differ - Farrar not amused as Dragons fall The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 18 June 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 38Vernon Ben Storm tremors hit - Lapses concern Murray Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 18 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 55 19 June – Melbourne release prop forward Brenton Pomery from the remainder of his contract with the club, the 28-year-old had not played at NRL level since round 2.Vernon Ben Old-style prop out of fashion Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 19 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 69 Round 17 – Mark Murray drops Queensland Origin forward Russell Bawden from the team,Vernon Ben Bawden dropped in Storm shock Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 20 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 77 while despite a hand injury that threatened to keep him out of the team, Richard Swain continues his streak of consecutive matches for the club. In a disappointing 40–18 loss against the Sharks, Scott Hill suffered a knee injury that saw him stretched off the field in the second half. Melbourne conceded seven tries in the match, with Mark Murray suggesting that the players "attitude and not matching the opposition's intensity in the game" where the Storm were beaten.Kogoy Peter Sharks outplay lacklustre Storm The Australian News Corporation Australia 25 June 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 26 (Sport) The injury to Hill would keep him out of action for six weeks, while there were also fears that Fifita Moala had also injured the knee that had kept him out for much of the season.Vernon Ben Hill injury makes it hard climb for Storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 25 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 61 After scans, both Hill and Moala escaped surgery on their injuries.Vernon Ben Scott's injury relief Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 26 June 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 72 1 July – The Sunday Mail reports that the Queensland Government has confirmed that it held talks with the Melbourne Storm about relocating to Brisbane and basing itself at Lang Park. John Ribot admitted he had spoken to the Queensland Government "but we're not going anywhere."Palmer Scot Brisbane's Storm bid Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 1 July 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 12Palmer Scot Storm stays put Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 1 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 50 thumb|Mebourne Storm 100th game banner unfurled before the round 18 match against Wests Tigers thumb|Inverse side of the Mebourne Storm 100th game banner Round 18 – Melbourne celebrate their 100th game of premiership footballVernon Ben Storm go for broke Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 4 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 67 with a record-breaking 64–0 win over Wests Tigers at Colonial Stadium. The 64 points is Melbourne's greatest winning margin, and it was the first time holding the opposition to nil; while Matt Orford set a new club record with 10 goals in the match.Vernon Ben Storm try surge humiliates Tigers Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 6 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 110Fuller Mark Storm celebrates its ton in style, 64-0 The Age Fairfax Media 6 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) Richard Swain becomes the first player to have played in 100 games for the club, featuring in every game played since 1998.Williams Rebecca Storm aims to put icing on ton of celebrations MX News Corporation Australia 4 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 15Fuller Mark Storm's Swain gets 100 out of 100 The Age Fairfax Media 5 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 3 (Sport)Vernon Ben Indestructible freak Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 5 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 89 The match was played on a Thursday night due to international rugby league rules ahead of a test match between Australia and New Zealand, after it was originally scheduled to be played on a Monday night due to availability issues at Colonial Stadium.Ricketts Steve Test furore a threat to league's credibility Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 17 May 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 40Gould Russell Storm stand firm on clash Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 17 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 96Vernon Ben Storm switch Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 31 May 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 90 12 July – Penrith Panthers sign Storm forward Ben Roarty on a two-year contract from the 2002 NRL season.Fuller Mark Storm's Roarty heads to Penrith The Age Fairfax Media 13 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) Round 19 – Melbourne lose their fourth straight match away at Marathon Stadiumto continue their winless run at the Knights home ground. The Storm conceded eight tries in the 48–16 loss against the Knights, losing Brett O'Farrell late in the match to an ankle injury in the defeat. O'Farrell was later ruled out for the rest of the season.Vernon Ben Prop's injury darkens Storm mood Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 17 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 69 Mark Murray saying that the team's "attitude to our defence was very poor and it got progressively worse as the game went on" also conceding that the Storm would not make the finals until they addressed their defence.Vernon Ben On that form, we can't make finals Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 16 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 61 17 July – After announcing they were moving to the Cronulla Sharks ahead of the 2002 season, training staff Steve Litvensky (head trainer) Aaron Salisbury (strength and conditioning coach) immediately left the club with John Ribot denying that the pair were sacked, telling the media "they weren't sacked, they elected to leave. We're talking about a few weeks until the end of the season, so it's just a timing thing." Both staff members had been with the club since the club's inaugural season. Round 20 – Conceding a new club record of 54 points, Melbourne were thrashed by premiership fancy Parramatta Eels 54–10, with Jason Taylor equalling the Australian rugby league points scoring record of Daryl Halligan.Adams Tony Taylor's record creates storm The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 21 July 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 140 Captain Robbie Kearns apologetic about the defeat saying it was the club's worst performance: "it was the worst because it was at home and I want to apologise to all the fans that came along and had to watch that. I feel like a real idiot after I said in the paper we had to win this one and then we go out and play like that. They just outmuscled us, outplayed us, outdid us in every part of the game and we've got to have a good look at ourselves. I hate to think what our missed-tackle count was."Vernon Ben Kearns says sorry Herald Sun 21 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 88 28 July – Melbourne extend the contracts of Steve Bell and Peter Robinson — both players staying with the club for a further two seasons.Vernon Ben Storm stars sign again Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 28 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 86 Round 21 – The retractable seats at Colonial Stadium are brought in for the first time for a Storm match. It is rumoured that the costs to bring the seats in and replace damaged turf is in excess of 100,000.Vernon Ben LEAGUE FANS IN SEATS OF POWER Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 30 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 63 In a comeback 32–28 win against the Brisbane Broncos, Marcus Bai scores his 50th try for the club, the first player to reach that milestone. Melbourne had fell behind 12–0 in the first half, and 28–14 down in the second half before mounting a comeback to keep their finals hopes alive.Berry Jamie Storm finals hopes stay alive The Age Fairfax Media 30 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 6 (Sport)Cormick Brendan Brisbane hit by late Storm The Australian News Corporation Australia 30 July 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 23Ricketts Steve Costly punch just a get-square - Webb - Broncos' injury crisis deepens Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 30 July 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 2 (Sport)Vernon Ben Freakish Storm at full force - Gritty Melbourne stuns Brisbane Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 30 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 62 1 August – In a wide-ranging interview, CEO Chris Johns declared that the club would not be moving to Queensland and that the move to Colonial Stadium was not a mistake, although it might have been a little "impetuous, a bit eager and we probably tried to run before we could walk."Vernon Ben IT'S NEVER GOING TO HAPPEN Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 1 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 76 A few days later Gold Coast Mayor Gary Baildon said that he would contact the club after rumours persisted that the club could leave Victoria as early as 2003.Coast out to lure Storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 5 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 67 2 August – After rumours had linked him with a move, Brad Watts signed a two year deal to play with the South Sydney Rabbitohs when they rejoined the competition in 2002.Vernon Ben Watts Sydney bound Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 2 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 87Westlake Michael Coast bids for restless Storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 5 August 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 134 Round 22 – Despite admitting his team "had no chance" to beat Melbourne,Vernon Ben We've got no chance Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 3 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 106 Peter Sharp sees his Northern Eagles team upset the Storm 20–12 in Gosford. Melbourne led 12–0 after 25 minutes, but failed to post any further points. Robbie Ross called the effort from the team "soft."Vernon Ben Murray's blast Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 5 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 67MacDonald John Toovey gives Eagles a last laugh The Australian News Corporation Australia 6 August 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 26Vernon Ben Storm forecast looks fairly grim Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 6 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 59 7 August – With speculation increasing, John Ribot said of the offer to relocate the club to the Gold Coast "I've got a lot of respect for Gary Baildon, but there is no way we'll be going to the Gold Coast. Why would we? We've got the best supporters in the world here and we're totally committed to Melbourne. Why would we want to go to the Gold Coast and play second fiddle to Brisbane?"Vernon Ben Storm on the Coast? Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 7 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 69 Round 23 – Amid controversial calls by the officials, Melbourne fall to another heavy defeat, losing 50–28 against the Sydney Roosters. Melbourne were leading 28–22 before video referee Graeme West awarded a try to the Roosters in the 63rd minute, despite an apparant knock-on in the lead-up. The loss left the Storm outside the top eight in tenth position.Honeysett Stuart Storm calls loss into question The Australian News Corporation Australia 13 August 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 26Frilingos Peter Storm at the SFS - Clubs cry foul over rulings The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 13 August 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 35 Round 24 – Melbourne maintain slim hopes of a place in the top eight with a narrow 28–24 victory over last-placed Penrith in a Monday night match at Colonial Stadium. Robbie Ross scored two tries in the match, with the Storm coming from 24–18 down during the second half.Vernon Ben Close call but Storm still in it Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 21 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 86 Melbourne were missing Marcus Bai, Rodney Howe and Aaron Moule who were all injured, but did have late inclusions Scott Hill and Tasesa Lavea make important contributions. Lavea scoring the last try of the match with five minutes remaining.Cormick Brendan Storm's finals hopes flickering The Australian News Corporation Australia 21 August 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 21 23 August – Rodney Howe, who was thought to have an exit clause in his contract that was tied to former coach Chris Anderson, turned his back on offers on a big money move to Super League club Leeds Rhinos.Vernon Ben Howe could you go? Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 8 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 75Fuller Mark Howe says no to $1million a year and stays with Storm The Age Fairfax Media 23 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) Round 25 – A controversial 24–all draw with New Zealand Warriors seals the top eight door shut for Melbourne, meaning the club missed the NRL finals for the first time. Melbourne had fallen behind 22–4 at halftime, then scored 20 points in a stirring late comeback.Fuller Mark Agonising draw ends Storm bid The Age Fairfax Media 28 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport) Referee Tim Mander is admonished for directing Matt Geyer to take a conversion kick two metres closer to the sideline than from where the Storm's final try was scored.Ritchie Dean Two steps that dashed Melbourne's title hopes The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 29 August 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 80Vernon Ben Geyer Storm rages Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 29 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 72 Mander had also sent Storm halfback to the sin bin for a professional foul with just over ten minutes remaining.Adams Tony POINT BREAK - Warriors into finals after thrilling draw The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 28 August 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 64Vernon Ben Storm claws back draw Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 28 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 76 1 September – The club signed Wests Tigers prop forward Shane Walker on a one-year contract for the 2002 season.Vernon Ben Tigers veteran ready to sign with Storm Herald Sun 1 September 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 87 Round 26 – Richard Swain becomes the first player to make 1000 tackles in a NRL season,Bell Cameron 1000 tackles - Swain to break all-time record The Daily Telegraph News Corporation Australia 19 August 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 58 making a club record 52 tackles in Melbourne's final match of the season against the Canberra Raiders.Vernon Ben Storm fizzes out Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 2 September 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 65 Swain also completes the marathon achievement of being the only forward to have played every minute of every game throughout the season. Melbourne lose the final match of the season against the Canberra Raiders 32–6 with Mark Murray calling the Storm's perfmance "80 minutes of crap really and although we were out of the finals I think we were entitled to finish the season off a bit better than that." Defying a hamstring injury, Robbie Kearns played his 200th NRL match, setting up Melbourne's only try with an offload to Danny Williams.Raiders win it for Mal The Australian News Corporation Australia 3 September 2001 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 27 6 September – The club advised Russell Bawden he would not be signed for the 2002 season, moving on from the forward who had played 101 matches with the club. Melbourne had signed both Mitchell Sargent and Willie Leyshon for the next season.Fuller Mark Storm axes Bawden to preserve team balance The Age Fairfax Media 6 September 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 5 (Sport)Vernon Ben Parra ace joins pack Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 6 September 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 87 15 September – Danny Williams signs a one-year contract to stay in Melbourne.Williams re-signs with Storm Gold Coast Bulletin News Corporation Australia 15 September 2001 Gold Coast, Queensland 141 John Ribot reveals that he is confident that Melbourne would play a match in Shanghai, despite resistance from NRL CEO David Moffett.Vernon Ben Storm holds China hopes Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 15 September 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 88 21 October – On an end of season trip in Hawaii, Danny Williams and Ben Roarty are involved in a fist fight that leaves Roarty requiring 30 stitches under his eye.Hawse Adam Motel brawl causes storm Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 21 October 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 3 Roarty suffered a cracked orbital socket, with teammate Russell Bawden labelling Williams "an idiot."Vernon Ben 'He's an idiot' Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 9 November 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 112 20 November – Melbourne turn their back on Colonial Stadium, making the move back to Olympic Park for the 2002 season.Vernon Ben Back to Olympic Park Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 20 November 2001 78Milovanovic Selma The Storm gives up on Colonial The Age Fairfax Media 21 November 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 2 (Sport) The Storm had complained during the season that they were unable to train or practice at the ground and that the moveable seating setup had not been used as often as they had been promised.Vernon Ben It's not like home - Lack of training at Colonial irks Ando Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 7 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 78 The move to the indoor stadium had not proven popular with fans, with Melbourne's average attendance significantly decreasing in 2001.Vernon Ben Storm Olympic gains Herald Sun Fairfax Media 8 November 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 99 Milestone games Round Player Milestone Round 1 Junior Langi Storm debut Matt Orford Steven Bell NRL debutRound 4 Paul Whatuira Storm debutRound 5 Richard Swain 100th game Henry Perenara Storm debutRound 11 Marcus Bai 100th gameRound 14 Paul Sheedy NRL debutRound 15 Scott Hill100th gameRound 18 Melbourne Storm 100th gameRound 23 Russell Bawden 100th gameRound 24 Semi Tadulala NRL debutRound 26 Robbie Kearns 200th game Jerseys 100px|thumb|2001 home jersey Melbourne's jerseys were again manufactured by Fila and carried the same design as the 1999-2000 home jersey. A new purple away jersey design with white and silver thunderbolts was worn in select games, with navy shorts and purple socks.Westlake Michael A new era on Storm fron Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 1 November 2000 Melbourne, Victoria 79 For the first time, the jerseys displayed a front sponsor,Dubecki Larissa League boosted as Storm signs sponsorship deal The Age Fairfax Media 20 December 2000 Melbourne, Victoria 7 (Sport) with a white Adecco logo in a red box on the home jersey, with just the white logo on the purple away jersey. Fixtures Pre Season Date Rd Round Opponent Venue Result Mel. Melbourne score Opp. Opponent score Tries Goals Field goals Ref Reference27 JanuaryTrial16px Penrith PanthersLavington Sports Ground, Albury4018B Roarty (2), B Martin, P Robinson, T Whatuira, M Bai, D Williams, B WattsM Orford (3), T Lavea Barrow Tim Orford a real impact player The Daily Telegraph Nationwide News Pty Ltd 28 January 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 572 FebruaryTrial16px Northern EaglesBrookvale Oval, Sydney3040M Orford (2), B Roarty, J Langi, B Watts, R RossT Lavea (3) Beikoff Katrin Eagle returns to nest - Charm before the Storm for Bret The Daily Telegraph Nationwide News Pty Ltd 2 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales 123Vernon Ben Orford takes the points, not Storm Herald-Sun Nationwide News Pty Ltd 3 February 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 81Ritchie Dean Kimmorley sinks his former mates The Daily Telegraph Nationwide News Pty Ltd 3 February 2001 Sydney, New South Wales Regular season Result by round table b Round Ground H/H/A/H/A/H/A/A/H/H/A/A/H/A/A/H/A/H/A/H/H/A/A/H/H/A Result L/L/W/W/L/L/L/L/W/L/W/W/W/L/W/W/L/W/L/L/W/L/L/W/D/L Position 10/13/11/6/11/13/12/13/12/12/10/9/7/9/7/6/8/7/8/8/8/9/10/10/9/9 Points 0p/0p/2p/4p/4p/4p/4p/4p/6p/6p/8p/10p/12p/12p/14p/16p/16p/18p/18p/18p/20p/20p/20p/22p/23p/23p 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 Reference18 February116px Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Colonial Stadium, Melbourne1014M BaiT Lavea 3/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-1/melbourne-vs-bulldogs/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 1 10 August 202124 February216px North Queensland Cowboys Colonial Stadium, Melbourne2832B Roarty (2), M Bai, B Watts, D WilliamsT Lavea 2/3, M Orford 2/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-2/melbourne-vs-north-queensland/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 2 10 August 20213 March316px St George Illawarra Dragons WIN Stadium, Wollongong2016B Watts (2), M Bai, M OrfordT Lavea 2/5https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-3/st-george-illawarra-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 3 10 August 202111 March416px Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Colonial Stadium, Melbourne3424M Geyer, S Hill, J Langi, M Orford, M Rua, P WhatuiraT Lavea 5/7https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-4/melbourne-vs-sharks/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 4 10 August 202118 March516px Wests Tigers Leichhardt Oval, Sydney1040R Kearns, R SwainT Lavea 1/2https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-5/wests-tigers-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 5 10 August 202125 March616px Newcastle Knights Colonial Stadium, Melbourne2836S Hill, A Moule, M Orford, R Ross, R SwainT Lavea 3/4, M Geyer 1/1https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-6/melbourne-vs-newcastle/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 6 10 August 202131 March716px Parramatta Eels Parramatta Stadium, Sydney1842J Langi, A Moule, H PerenaraM Orford 3/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-7/parramatta-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 7 10 August 20218 April816px Brisbane Broncos ANZ Stadium, Brisbane1618M Bai, M Orford, H PerenaraM Orford 2/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-8/brisbane-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 8 10 August 202113 April916px Northern Eagles Colonial Stadium, Melbourne5218A Moule (4), M Bai (2), R Bawden, S Hill, S KearneyM Orford 8/10https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-9/melbourne-vs-northern-eagles/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 9 10 August 202122 April1016px Sydney Roosters Colonial Stadium, Melbourne2223M Bai, M Orford, M Rua, P WhatuiraM Orford 3/5https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-10/melbourne-vs-sydney/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 10 10 August 202129 April1116px Penrith Panthers Penrith Park, Sydney5814M Orford (2), D Williams (2), S Bell, M Geyer, S Hill, B Roarty, R Ross, M Rua, R SwainM Orford 7/11https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-11/penrith-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 11 10 August 202112 May1216px New Zealand Warriors Ericsson Stadium, Auckland4020A Moule (2), S Bell, S Hill, M Orford, R Ross, D WilliamsM Orford 6/8https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-12/new-zealand-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 12 10 August 202119 May1316px Canberra Raiders Colonial Stadium, Melbourne3228M Geyer (2), R Bawden, A Moule, P Robinson, R RossM Orford 4/7https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-13/melbourne-vs-canberra/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 13 10 August 202127 May1416px Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Sydney Showground, Sydney2826M Bai, R Bawden, S Bell, M Geyer, P RobinsonM Orford 3/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-14/bulldogs-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 14 10 August 20212 June1516px North Queensland Cowboys Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville2438S Bell (2), M Geyer (2), S Kearney, A Moule, H PerenaraM Orford 5/8https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-15/north-queensland-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 15 10 August 202117 June1616px St George Illawarra Dragons Colonial Stadium, Melbourne3428M Bai, S Bell, M Geyer, S Hill, F Moala, H PerenaraM Orford 5/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-16/melbourne-vs-st-george-illawarra/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 16 10 August 202123 June1716px Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Toyota Park, Sydney1840S Bell, M Geyer, A Moule, M OrfordM Orford 1/4https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-17/sharks-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 17 10 August 20215 July1816px Wests Tigers Colonial Stadium, Melbourne640M Geyer (3), A Moule (2), R Howe, F Moala, M Orford, H Perenara, B Roarty, R SwainM Orford 10/11https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-18/melbourne-vs-wests-tigers/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 18 10 August 202115 July1916px Newcastle Knights Marathon Stadium, Newcastle1648M Bai, F Moala, M OrfordM Orford 2/4https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-19/newcastle-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 19 10 August 202120 July2016px Parramatta Eels Colonial Stadium, Melbourne1054A Moule, M OrfordM Orford 1/2https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-20/melbourne-vs-parramatta/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 20 10 August 202129 July2116px Brisbane Broncos Colonial Stadium, Melbourne3228M Bai, S Bell, M Geyer, F Moala, M Orford, R SwainM Orford 4/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-21/melbourne-vs-brisbane/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 21 10 August 20214 August2216px Northern Eagles NorthPower Stadium, Gosford1220F Moala, M OrfordM Orford 2/4https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-22/northern-eagles-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 22 10 August 202112 August2316px Sydney Roosters Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney2850S Kearney (2), S Bell, F Moala, P RobinsonM Orford 4/5https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-23/sydney-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 23 10 August 202120 August2416px Penrith Panthers Colonial Stadium, Melbourne2824R Ross (2), R Bawden, S Bell, T LaveaM Orford 4/6https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-24/melbourne-vs-penrith/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 24 10 August 202127 August2516px New Zealand Warriors Colonial Stadium, MelbourneDraw2424S Bell, M Geyer, A Moule, M Orford, H PerenaraM Geyer 1/2, M Orford 1/3https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-25/melbourne-vs-new-zealand/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 25 10 August 20211 September2616px Canberra Raiders Bruce Stadium, Canberra632D WilliamsM Orford 1/1https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/round-26/canberra-vs-melbourne/summary.html NRL 2001 - Round 26 10 August 2021 Source:http://afltables.com/rl/teams/melbourne/melbourne_by.html#2001 Rugby League Tables - Melbourne 10 August 2021 Ladder 2001 NRL season 2001 Coaching Staff Head coach: Chris Anderson until 2 April 2001 Head coach: Mark Murray from 2 April 2001 Assistant coach: Anthony GriffinNew RL coach Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 10 January 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 37 (Sport) Football Manager: Greg Brentnall Physiotherapist: Greg Gibson Head Trainer: Steve Litvensky until 17 July 2001 Head Trainer: Troy Thompson from 17 July 2001 Strength and conditioning Coach: Aaron Salisbury until 17 July 2001 Strength and conditioning Coach: Dave Derbyshire from 17 July 2001Sharks snap up coaching pair - Defections rock Storm Herald Sun 18 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 77 2001 Squad List current as of 10 August 2021Storm Team List (2001) http://www.melbournestorm.com.au:80/mn_players.asp melbournestorm.com.au 10 August 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20010616171619/http://www.melbournestorm.com.au:80/mn_players.asp 16 June 2001 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 Mariners 3AUSAaron MouleWG, CE1998AUS South Queensland Crushers5PNGMarcus BaiWG1998AUS Gold Coast Chargers6AUSScott HillFE1998AUS Hunter Mariners8AUSRodney HowePR1998AUS Perth Reds9AUSDanny WilliamsLK, SR, HK1998AUS North Sydney Bears10AUSRobbie KearnsPR1998AUS Perth Reds12AUSBen RoartyPR, SR, LK1998AUS Melbourne Storm15NZLRichard SwainHK1998AUS Hunter Mariners16AUSRussell BawdenPR1998AUS Brisbane Broncos18AUSMatt GeyerWG1998AUS Perth Reds26NZLMatt RuaPR, SR1998AUS Melbourne Storm28NZLStephen KearneySR1999AUS New Zealand Warriors30NZLTasesa LaveaFE1999AUS Melbourne Storm31AUSBrad WattsFB1999AUS Melbourne Storm32AUSBrett O'FarrellPR1999AUS Melbourne Storm34TONFifita MoalaWG2000AUS Melbourne Storm35AUSBrook MartinWG2000AUS Melbourne Storm37NZLGlen TurnerSR2000AUS Melbourne Storm38AUSPeter RobinsonSR2000AUS Melbourne Storm41AUSBrenton PomeryPR2000AUS Wests Tigers42NZLJunior LangiCE2001AUS St George Illawarra Dragons43AUSMatt OrfordHB2001AUS Northern Eagles44AUSSteven BellCE2001AUS Melbourne Storm45NZLPaul WhatuiraCE2001NZL Auckland Warriors46NZLHenry PerenaraLK2001NZL Auckland Warriors47AUSPaul SheedyFB2001AUS Melbourne Storm48FIJSemi TadulalaWG2001AUS Melbourne Storm—AUSNic HendersonSRYet to DebutAUS Melbourne Storm—NZLTai LaveaFBYet to DebutAUS Melbourne Storm—NZLMarty TurnerHBYet to DebutAUS Melbourne Storm—NZLJason WrigleyPRYet to DebutAUS Melbourne Storm Player movements Losses Kevin Carmichael to Norths Devils Chris Essex to Released Wayne Evans to Northern Eagles Wade Fenton to Released Brett Kimmorley to Northern Eagles John Lomax to Retirement Paul Marquet to Newcastle Knights Tony Martin to London Broncos Reference(s):How the clubs line up for the season Newcastle Herald 15 February 2001 Newcastle, New South Wales 38-39 Gains Junior Langi from St George Illawarra Dragons Matt Orford from Northern Eagles Henry Perenara from Auckland Warriors Paul Whatuira from Auckland Warriors Team of the Century In conjunction with the celebrations for Melbourne's 100th game in round 18 against Wests, Melbourne ran a "team of the century" promotion to honour the best 17 players over the first 100 games of the club's existence.Anderson Jon Try this Storm comp Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 4 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 71 The team was announced during half time of the round 21 game against Brisbane. Melbourne Storm #440085 white #092340 #FED102 14 September 2021 Team of the Century  1 AUS FB Robbie Ross  2 AUS WG Matt Geyer  3 AUS CE Aaron Moule  4 AUS CE Tony Martin  5 PNG WG Marcus Bai  6 AUS FE Scott Hill  7 AUS HB Brett Kimmorley  8 AUS PR Glenn Lazarus  9 AUS HK Richard Swain 10 AUS PR Rodney Howe 11 AUS SR Robbie Kearns 12 NZL SR Stephen Kearney 13 NZL LK Tawera Nikau Interchange 14 AUS Paul Marquet 15 NZL Matt Rua 16 AUS Russell Bawden 17 AUS Danny Williams Coach Chris Anderson Representative honours This table lists all players who have played a representative match in 2001. List of Melbourne Storm representatives Player City vs Country Origin State of Origin 1 State of Origin 2 State of Origin 3 Midseason Testsfn31 Tests between Australia vs NZ, NZ vs France October Testfn32 Tests between Australia vs PNG 2001 Kangaroo tour Marcus Bai Papua New Guinea Russell Bawden Queensland Scott Hill Country Rodney Howe New South Wales Stephen Kearney New Zealand Robbie Kearns New South Wales Australia Australia Australia Tasesa Lavea New Zealand Matt Orford City Henry Perenara New Zealand Matt Rua New Zealand Richard Swain New Zealand Statistics This table contains playing statistics for all Melbourne Storm players to have played in the 2001 NRL season. Statistics sources:https://afltables.com/rl/teams/melbourne/melbourne2001_sc.html 2001 Melbourne Point Scorers afltables.com 10 August 2021https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2001/melbourne/summary.html Melbourne Storm - NRL 2001 rugbyleagueproject.org 10 August 2021 List of Melbourne Storm records NameAppearancesTriesGoalsField goalsPointsMarcus Bai 21110044Russell Bawden 2340016Steven Bell 20110044Matt Geyer 26142060Scott Hill Scott Hill (rugby league) 2060024Rodney Howe 171004Stephen Kearney 2640016Robbie Kearns 231004Junior Langi 102008Tasesa Lavea 19116036Fifita Moala 1060024Aaron Moule 21150060Brett O'Farrell Brett O'Farrell (rugby league) 90000Matt Orford 2615780216Henry Perenara 2160024Brenton Pomery 20000Ben Roarty 2340016Peter Robinson Peter Robinson (rugby league) 2030012Robbie Ross Robbie Ross (rugby league) 1460024Matt Rua 2530012Paul Sheedy 20000Richard Swain 2650020Semi Tadulala 10000Brad Watts 730012Paul Whatuira 62008Danny Williams Danny Williams (rugby league, born 1973) 215002026 players used — 128 96 0 704 Scorers Most points in a game: 24 points Round 18 - Matt Orford (1 try, 10 Goals) vs Wests Tigers Most tries in a game: 4 fn12 Equal club record Round 9 - Aaron Moule vs Northern Eagles Winning games Highest score in a winning game: 64 points Round 18 vs Wests Tigers Lowest score in a winning game: 20 points Round 3 vs St George Illawarra Dragons Greatest winning margin: 64 points fn11 New club record Round 18 vs Wests Tigers Greatest number of games won consecutively: 3 Round 11 - Round 13 Losing games Highest score in a losing game: 28 points Round 2 vs North Queensland Cowboys Round 6 vs Newcastle Knights Round 23 vs Sydney Roosters Lowest score in a losing game: 6 points Round 26 vs Canberra Raiders Greatest losing margin: 44 points Round 20 vs Parramatta Eels Greatest number of games lost consecutively: 4 fn12 Round 5 - Round 8 NRL Judiciary A number of Melbourne players were cited by the match review committee for incidents through the 2001 season, with the following results from the NRL Judiciary. + Round Player Offence & grade ResultNRLJudiciary 100 demerit points equals one match suspension. Ref Reference Round 1 Rodney Howe Reckless high tackle (Grade 3) 6 matches (633 demerit points) Round 3 Aaron Moule Careless high tackle (Grade 4) 1 match (168 demerit points) Vernon Ben Storm's Moule out, Bai unlikely Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 6 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 79 Round 4 Richard Swain Careless high tackle (Grade 2) No matches (93 demerit points) Vernon Ben Swain may fight charge Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 13 March 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 75 Round 20 Ben Roarty Careless high tackle (Grade 1) No matches (56 demerit points) Fuller Mark Unblemished record saves Roarty The Age Fairfax Media 25 July 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 4 (Sport) Round 25 Rodney Howe Careless high tackle (Grade 1) 1 match (145 demerit points) Vernon Ben Recruiting drive to beef up pack Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 29 August 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 72 Round 26 Tasesa Lavea Careless high tackle (Grade 1) No matches (56 demerit points) Feeder Team Melbourne Storm reserve players again travelled to Brisbane each week to play with Queensland Cup team Norths Devils. Making the finals for the fourth straight season, Norths Devils finished fourth, but were eliminated in the first week of the 2001 Queensland Cup finals. Before the start of the season, Melbourne had provided additional funding to Norths in order to guarantee the club's survival for at least two seasons. That support including payments of 125,000 and waiving debts of 65,000.Dawson Andrew Devils' survival assured Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 1 January 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 11 (Sport) Following Mark Murray's appointment as caretaker coach to the Storm, the club poached Terry Matterson to takeover as coach of the Devils, Matterson leaving the Toowoomba Clydesdales to take the role.Vernon Ben Church blasts Storm game Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 13 April 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 69Happy with switch Courier Mail News Corporation Australia 15 April 2001 Brisbane, Queensland 131 2001 Queensland Cup 2001 Queensland Cup Pos PositionTeam Pld Games played W Won D Drawn L Lost B Bye PF Points for (total points scored) PA Points against (total points conceded) PD Points difference (points scored minus points conceded) Pts Competition points4Norths Devils 16 Norths Devils20 11 3 6 2 558 446 +112 29 Awards and honours Melbourne Storm Awards Night Held at Crown Palladium on Monday, 1 October:Swain wins Storm's player of the year award Australian Associated Press 30 September 2001 Melbourne, VictoriaFuller Mark Swain Storm's best, Kearns to play Tests The Age Fairfax Media 2 October 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 2 (Sport)Vernon Ben Storm honours Herald Sun News Corporation Australia 2 October 2001 Melbourne, Victoria 70 Melbourne Storm Player of the Year: Richard SwainNRL 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 Melbourne Storm Members' Player of the Year: Matt Orford Melbourne Storm Rookie of the Year: Steven Bell Melbourne Storm Clubman of the Year: Stephen Kearney Mick Moore Chairman's Award: Richard Swain Hit of the Year: Matt Rua (round 3) Other Awards The Weakest Link Sports Special Winner; Rodney Howe.2002 Melbourne Storm Info Guide Melbourne Storm 123http://www.afana.com/netpaper/oct7-43830.html Recent news | AFANA Notes References 2001 Category:2001 NRL season by club Category:2001 in sport in Melbourne