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Dolphins vs Melbourne Storm Round 9 Tips and Prediction

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Ryan Tucker
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Last updated: 29 Apr 2026
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  • Storm tipped as value underdogs vs Dolphins in NRL Round 9.
  • Best bets: Storm +3.5 line, Over 24.5 team points, Fa’alogo anytime try.
  • Melbourne’s errors coachable, contest expected to be close.
  • Kick off is at 8:00 PM (AEST) on Friday, 1st May at Suncorp Stadium
Sualauvi Faalogo
Sualauvi Faalogo of the Storm. (Photo by Mark Nolan/Getty Images)

Dolphins vs Melbourne Storm Tips and Prediction


The Storm are backed as value underdogs in a matchup that presents a key opportunity to turn their season around.

How this game shapes up


This is one of the more difficult games of the round to assess, with both teams showing inconsistent form and carrying question marks.

Melbourne enter this clash on a six-game losing streak, but their performances have not been as poor as the results suggest. Several of those defeats were narrow, while underlying metrics point to areas that are correctable through adjustments in structure and execution.

The Storm’s struggles in kick return metres, offloads and missed tackles highlight areas where they have deviated from their usual standards. However, these are typically coachable aspects and improvements could come quickly.

The Dolphins have faced their own issues, particularly in closing out games. Despite showing strong attacking capability, they have struggled to maintain intensity across the full 80 minutes, surrendering leads and allowing opponents back into contests.

Best Bets


Storm +3.5 Line


The market has the Dolphins as favourites, but the value sits with Melbourne given their upside and ability to respond.

Storm Over 24.5 Team Points


North Queensland have consistently conceded points, and Melbourne should be able to generate enough attacking opportunities.

Sua Fa’alogo Anytime Tryscorer


The Dolphins have shown vulnerability against opposition fullbacks, making this a strong matchup play.

What could go wrong?


If Melbourne’s confidence issues persist and their errors continue, the Dolphins’ attacking weapons could take advantage and swing the result.

Dolphins vs Melbourne Storm NRL 2026 Round 9 FAQ’s

How to livestream Dolphins vs Melbourne Storm NRL 2026 Round 9?

You can livestream the Dolphins vs Melbourne Storm NRL 2026 Round 9 game via Fox Sports or Kayo Sports. If you are watching from outside of Australia the WatchNRL app is the perfect solution.

How to buy tickets to Dolphins vs Melbourne Storm NRL 2026 Round 9?

To buy tickets to the Dolphins vs Melbourne Storm NRL 2026 Round 9 game check the NRL website or the official Dolphins site.

Verdict

Melbourne are expected to lift and push past the Dolphins in what shapes as a close contest.
Best Bet1: Melbourne +3.5 Line @-105.26 at Ladbrokes Australia - 3 Units
Best Bet2: Storm over 24.5 Team Total @-111.11 at picklebet - 2 Units
Best Bet3: S Fa'alogo Anytime Tryscorer @-120.48 at dabble - 1 Unit
Best Bet4: S Fa'alogo First Tryscorer @750.00 at Neds - 1 Unit
Melbourne +3.5
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@-105.26 - 3 Units
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