Billy Slater is living proof that fairytales don't always have happy endings.
The retiring Melbourne superstar was looking to end his 319-game NRL career with another premiership at ANZ Stadium.
But the game didn't go to script, with the Sydney Roosters crushing the Storm 21-6.
"This finish is not how we planned, but that's footy," Slater told Channel Nine.
"We tried our best, but that is the way it goes sometimes."
The 35-year-old almost didn't make his final farewell game - he had to overturn a shoulder charge ban at the NRL judiciary on Tuesday night to even take his place.
With passionate Roosters fans making up about 90 percent of the Grand Final crowd, they made it clear they were unhappy with the decision.
Warming up for the game, Slater missed the parade of retiring players, but the former test fullback was booed, when the ground announcer called out his name.
And once the match was underway, he was also targeted by the Roosters faithful each time he touched the ball.
Not that he got to do that as often as usual, with Roosters' five-eighth Luke Keary's kicking game limiting Slater's impact on the match.
Slater couldn't add to incredible tally of 23 tries in the finals, including one in each of his past three Grand Finals.
But he may have won some fans back, as he sought out injured Roosters halfback and long-time teammate Cooper Cronk on the bench immediately after full-time.
Slater said friendship was just one thing he would take from his career.
"I am really grateful for the career I have had and for the friends I have made," he said.
"Rugby League has taught me a lot of things - selflessness, respect - and I appreciate everything that everyone has done for me."
AAP
