The Bloods led the contest by 10 points during the second term, but the Storm gained the momentum leading into half-time to build a 21-point buffer at the main break, 9.5 to 6.2.

Both teams added three goals apiece after half-time as Strathfieldsaye ran out 12.10 (82) to 9.4 (58) victors at Flight Centre Park.

The Storm’s rotations were restricted in the second half after Tom Dowd (corked calf), Harry Conway (shoulder) and co-coach Bryce Curnow (hamstring) were all sidelined.

The best players for the Storm were led by captain Shannon Geary (three goals) and the gun midfield duo of Trent Donnan and Kallen Geary (two goals).

For the third game in a row midfielder Liam Bartels (two goals) was named best for the Bloods as his impressive debut season continued.

Ruckman Kieran Strachan and defender Daniel Nalder were others to play well.