LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
A downcast Craig Bellamy conceded that his Melbourne Storm squad just didn't have the same level of determination as the Panthers after a brutal 14-6 defeat in the grand final.
The Storm managed to snag the first try of the game courtesy of their skipper Harry Grant, but they were ultimately overwhelmed by the relentless Panthers, who clinched their fourth consecutive premiership.
"They were just too good for us," Bellamy acknowledged in his post-match press conference.
"They have a clear understanding of their strengths and they stick to their game plan with unwavering determination.
Tonight, we veered off course and it cost us dearly.
"They are relentless in executing what works for them, and we simply didn't match their intensity or commitment to the own game plan.
We weren't willing to go the extra mile like they were."
Overall, the Storm coach's candid admission highlighted the gap in performance between the two teams on the day.