Key three: Origin trio inspirational as Storm surges on Coast

Here are the key talking points from the clash:

Tino inspirational as Origin trio back-up

It came as no surprise the Titans captain was quick to declare he wanted to back-up for his club after 53 minutes in Wednesday's Origin opener. 

Despite being battered and bruised after suffering a face laceration in the early stages of his return representing his state, the skipper stood tall in the tough result; making 136 running metres and 28 tackles across a brave 72 minutes.

Beau Fermor was also strong getting through the full game - running for 168 metres - whilst Moeaki Fotuaika offered plenty of experience from the bench with 38 minutes.

Debate enrages over crucial denied try

Des Hasler's face said it all when Sam Verrills' 63rd minute try was taken off the home side - who at that stage were set to only be behind by a converted try.

The Bunker ruled there was a burrow action from Verrills who had been initially impeded by two Storm players remaining in the ruck, leaving Fox League commentators bemused.

"I wouldn't call that a classic burrow (from Verrills)," said Warren Smith.

"I agree, I think they're hard done by... I really do," added Michael Ennis.

To rub salt into the wounds, the Storm then ran the length of the field in the following set to completely change the momentum of the game - Melbourne taking the lead to 28-10.

Jojo ready to swap Titans blue for Maroon

If Billy Slater is looking for outside back re-enforcements for his Queensland Maroons in game two, he could do worse than Titans centre Jojo Fifita.

The powerful outside back has been a shining light for the Titans in 2025 and put in another strong display against the Melbourne Storm to show his credentials once again on both sides of the ball.

Fifita set up the first try by shrugging off fellow Origin-hopeful, Jack Howarth, to break into the backfield and put fullback Jayden Campbell away for the opening points of the game.

With an ability to play on the wing and centre and bring the ball back with strong carries from the backfield, Fifita may be on the radar for the Maroons as they look to combat the New South Wales Blues powerful running game of their back three.

He will have one more chance to impress before the teams are chosen when the Titans take on the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium next Saturday night. He finished the game with xx runs for xx metres, xx try assist, xx linebreak and xx tackles (with only 1 miss).