Combo is chalk and ‘Cheese’

BRANDON Smith admits Harry Grant and himself are “chalk and cheese” as players but as a combination they are the Melbourne Storm’s deadly one-two punch driving the club towards historic back-toback titles.

The dynamic duo was dynamite in the 28-16 win over the Sharks, which wrapped up the minor premiership and set up a finals showdown with arch rival Manly on the Sunshine Coast on Friday night.

Smith, known universally as “Cheese”, gets down and dirty early before shifting to lock, which is when Grant comes on and wreaks havoc.

It is a blueprint for success with a unique flavour.

“It is chalk and cheese. Harry is a lot different to me,” said Smith (pictured) as the Storm prepare to play.

“I think I am a little more grunty and wear the hits a little bit more. He is an energetic, fit hooker who can go all day.

“It is always good for me to go on and wear them down a little bit and then he opens them up.

“We just respect each other. There is no turmoil between us two and that is the best thing.”

Bellamy was delighted with the form of the pair against the Sharks, which was just what he wanted ahead of the finals. “I thought Harry was tremendous off the bench and the way Brandon started as well was back to when we were playing our best footy.”