A double from Dylan Lucas and debut try to Fletcher Sharpe weren't enough for a brave Newcastle side, with the Knights outlasted by the Melbourne Storm in a 36-28 loss at AAMI Park.
The Knights fought bravely in a see-sawing contest in the Victorian capital, defending multiple sets on their line and leading late in the first half before the Storm laid on two tries in as many minutes to take a slender lead at the break.
A late fightback in the second stanza ensured the game stayed alive, however the Storm ultimately hung on in an absorbing contest.
The Knights will return home next weekend, with the Penrith Panthers awaiting them for a Sunday afternoon special to close out Beanie for Brain Cancer Round.
HOW IT PLAYED OUT:
16th min - After an early arm wrestle, the Storm ensured they would play from in front when Nick Meaney crossed out wide to grab first points.
20th min - The Knights weren't behind for long, with Jackson Hastings swooping on a loose Storm pass to send Dylan Lucas away to level the scores.
Lucas locks it up
30th min - In an incredible moment, Fletcher Sharpe scored on debut to put the Knights in front with a slick piece movement out the back of shape.
Sharpe scores on debut
38th min - Jahrome Hughes hit back for Melbourne on the stroke of half time, locking the scores back up at 12-12.
39th min - In one of the tries of the season, Meaney finished off a length-of-the-field effort to grab his second and give the Storm a six point lead at the break.
41st min - Dylan Lucas grabbed his second of the afternoon straight after the break, getting the Knights back within two points.
Lucas grabs a double
59th min - After a dominant period, Melbourne race to a 34-16 lead with Tyrone Wishart (two tries) and Xavier Coates crossing.
65th min - Defiant under pressure, Dane Gagai crossed to give the Knights hope late in the contest.
Gagai gets the Knights back in it
76th min - Enari Tuala set up a grandstand finish, completing a terrific Knights try to get the side within six points.
Tuala sets up grandstand finish
80th min - The Knights ultimately fall short, with Melbourne adding a late penalty goal to seal the result.
