Alex Johnston moved within six tries of Ken Irvine’s all-time record after scoring four tries in a stunning individual performance, but it wasn’t enough as Ryan Papenhuyzen kicked a golden point field goal to give Melbourne a 24-25 win over South Sydney.
Johnston’s 16th career hat-trick and 206th overall try reinforced his place as one of the game’s great finishers, with his first three scores coming off Latrell Mitchell passes and a fourth sealing a personal milestone as the first player to score four tries in a game against the Storm.
Despite Johnston’s heroics, Papenhuyzen’s clutch kick in extra time secured a vital win for Melbourne, who move to third on the ladder.
