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Brett Finch has never been far from a headline, but he won’t be providing any this week.
The Melbourne five-eighth said he would take the “diplomatic” approach to Sunday’s NRL grand final against his former club Parramatta.
In a bizarre twist of fate Finch will face the side he walked out on just four weeks into the season after Eels coach Daniel Anderson told him they couldn’t win a premiership with him at halfback.
The bitter split has worked out brilliantly for both parties. The Eels have charged into the grand final with 10 of 11 wins and the Storm gained another playmaker to help them reach their fourth straight decider.
Finch recognises he is a story this week, but won’t be throwing any grenades through the media.
“It’s not a great story if we lose,” Finch said.
“There’s not much I will say, for the media it’s going to be something to talk about.
“I’m really happy to be playing a grand final. Obviously coming up against Parramatta adds a bit more to it but I will be happy to play anyone.
“I’m certainly not going to tackle harder or try any harder than I would (because I’m playing Parramatta).
“I’m sure if you ask them they’ve moved on and I’ve moved on as well.
“I will probably send a few texts during the week but I might not get any replies.”
Finch walked out on a $1 million three-year deal at the Eels to join the Storm for just $50,000 – although he was paid out for the rest of the 2009 season by Parramatta.
He has since earned another one-year deal at the Storm for 2010, but the value isn’t anywhere near the vicinity of his previous deal.
But if Finch, and not the Eels, lifts the premiership trophy on Sunday then the loss of wages would be worth every cent.
“If you get the chance to lift the trophy on Sunday you can’t put any financial value on that,” Finch said.
“When I left Parramatta I didn’t know what I was going to do with myself. I looked at England, I looked at considering maybe even retiring.
“I was grateful to get the opportunity down here. I just think to get out of Sydney and play five-eighth was a good opportunity.
“I’m glad I didn’t go over to the UK that’s for sure.
“I certainly didn’t want to go to England and sit in the freezing cold and think `shit I’ve left too early I wish I was home.”
Finch will also be hoping it’s a case of third time lucky after losing successive grand finals with the Sydney Roosters in 2003 and 2004.
“Obviously in 2003 and 2004 at the Chooks we probably saved our worst games for the grand final so it obviously leaves a bitter taste in your mouth losing a grand final,” he said.
While the Eels will have a drama-filled build-up with skipper Nathan Cayless in doubt with a hamstring injury, Finch believes it won’t distract the team too much simply because of Anderson’s focus.
While Finch’s deteriorating relationship with the Eels coach was behind his sudden departure, the Storm star believes the former St Helens boss will handle the potential disruptions surrounding their camp.
“Daniel has coached plenty of grand finals and a hell of lot of success with St Helens so I’m sure he will keep their mind on the job,” said Finch.
“It would be terrible if (Cayless) didn’t get over the injury.
“They’ve been like a runaway train the last 10 weeks, full of momentum so I’m sure they’ll go in just as confident.”
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