Melbourne and Central arrive at the same record after different defeats. The Kings pushed Sydney before losing 24 to 18. Thunder was beaten 26 to 12 by a Western Sydney side that controlled possession and territory.
Eddie Oliver was player of the match even in defeat for Melbourne, finishing with two tries, 224 metres and 24 tackles. Sione Tevita-Semisi also scored and made 203 metres. Their running gives the Kings a foundation for a response.
Central has an equally compelling threat in Jai Kalone, whose 274 metres and try stood out against the Bulls. Lucie Driscoll supplied 343 kick metres, but Thunder completed only 19 of 26 sets. Giving those attacking contributors more reliable possession looks central to a turnaround.
Melbourne completed 24 of 29 sets against Sydney but could not secure the points. With both teams on four competition points after Round 4, this is an opportunity to create separation in a crowded middle of the ladder. The side that gives its leading runners the cleaner platform should have a strong chance of taking it.