The Melbourne Storm have advanced to the 2024 NRL Grand Final after an impressive performance against the Sydney Roosters on Friday night.

With a dominant and consistent display throughout the season, the Storm have solidified their status as the team to beat and are the deserving minor premiers.

A standout player this season has been Jahrome Hughes, who has consistently stepped up in nearly every game, making big plays and delivering when the team needs it most.

Hughes scored an impressive hat-trick in Friday's final, effectively shredding the Roosters' defence apart.ย 

NRL Rd 11 - Storm v Broncos
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 11: Jahrome Hughes of the Storm looks to pass the ball during the round 11 NRL match between Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos at AAMI Park on May 11, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Coach Craig Bellamy praised his halfback for his efforts throughout the year, emphasising his versatile playing abilities.ย 

โ€œIt's just a sign of what he's been doing all year; he always comes up with the game we need from him,โ€ Bellamy said.

โ€œSometimes it might be a strong kicking game, a running game, or organising and passing, but he seems to be able to pick what the team needs and he can just come up with that.

โ€œHe's very versatile in his position; while his running game is probably his strongest asset, he knows how to adapt and get the job done.โ€

The Storm's spine has developed over the years, proving to be a dangerous combination for opposing teams. Against the Roosters, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Cameron Munster, Hughes, and Harry Grant all combined to create significant moments throughout the match.

โ€œThe longer our spines play together they know what each other's going to do in certain situations,โ€ Bellamy commented on the combination.

The Dally M favourite, Hughes left the field with five minutes to go due to neck soreness, while captain Harry Grant also exited with a calf issue, and Nick Meaney suffered a cork above the knee.ย 

โ€œReally have to give Hughsey and Harry a wrap. They were struggling at halftime, and while we had a decent lead, it was way too early to pack up the tent,โ€ Bellamy said.

โ€œThese two guys basically played out the game, which just goes to show what good players they are. They're tough bastards to be able to perform like they did in the second half today.โ€

โ€œIt shows they genuinely care about what the team needs and are willing to put themselves on the line.โ€

Hughes, Grant, and Meaney have declared they will be fit for the Grand Final despite carrying minor injuries.