Bellamy: 2020 Grand Final Irrelevant for Current Storm
The 2020 NRL Grand Final, where the Sydney Roosters defeated the Canberra Raiders, saw the likes of James Tedesco and Luke Keary shine under the bright lights of Stadium Australia. But for one player in particular, the final was anything but a happy occasion.
Ryan Papenhuyzen - now a key cog in the Melbourne Storm machine - was a Raider back then, and his performance in the Grand Final was marred by a concussion. While he has since emerged as one of the most exciting talents in the NRL, Papenhuyzen himself admits that the 2020 decider holds little significance for him now.
"It's funny, I don't really think about that game anymore," Papenhuyzen said recently. "It was a tough loss, and I didn't play my best. But that's all in the past now. I'm focused on the Storm, and I'm excited for what the future holds."
Papenhuyzen's move to Melbourne has been a revelation. He has blossomed into a genuine superstar, racking up try after try and inspiring awe with his dazzling footwork and agility. His focus is now firmly on the present and future with the Storm, and the past, including a disappointing Grand Final appearance, is a mere footnote in his story.
The 2020 Grand Final may have been a watershed moment for the NRL, but for Papenhuyzen, it's a distant memory. He's not looking back, instead, his eyes are set on the future and the opportunity to build a legacy with the Melbourne Storm.
