Bellamy proud however Storm does in finals

STORM coach Craig Bellamy says a straight-sets finals elimination would not render 2019 a wasted season. But Bellamy has challenged his players to pay back “shortchanged” fans having had to see the minor premier drop four of its five losses this season in Melbourne. The winner of Saturday night’s semi-final will play premiers Sydney Roosters at the SCG on AFL grand final night. “I don’t care what anyone says, this group has done a wonderful job this year,” Bellamy said. “I don’t care what happens on the weekend, I hope that doesn’t come back to bite me, but at the end of the day I’m really proud of this group. “We will be disappointed if we don’t go any further, without a doubt, we’re going to be disappointed if we get beat in whatever time the rest of this season. But what these guys have done to win a minor premiership … they’ve worked really hard, they’ve really stuck with each other. “It’s been a really good season and a successful season in that way, it’s also been some real good learnings for everyone.’’ Storm utility Brandon Smith (flu) remains in some doubt for the crunch semi-final despite brushing off a shoulder issue. Despite a narrow loss last week Bellamy is adamant Melbourne’s best is still good enough to measure up against hi-octane Parramatta Eels, who belted up Brisbane 58-0 last week. “I don’t think we’re that far away from it,” Bellamy said. “We weren’t blown out of the water, we were in front with three minutes to go and we dropped the ball 10 metres from our tryline and paid the price.”