https://amp.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...s/news-story/57801f26442706e4708d3df6bf2675a2
NRL grand final 2018 talking points
October 1, 2018 5:46am
Tyson Otto
news.com.au
STORM captain Cameron Smith has declared Billy Slater deserved better than the hostile reception he received from the ANZ Stadium crowd during his team’s grand final loss.
Slater was regularly heckled with a chorus of boos — even before stepping onto the field — as his fairytale farewell turned into a miserable send off as the Storm slumped to a 21-6 loss to the Roosters.
Smith hit out at Slater’s treatment from Sydney fans, declaring the star No. 1 deserved more respect.
Asked if the crowd were disrespectful, Storm captain Smith said: “I don’t think there is any other way to say that.
“He’s only ever been someone good for the game, I think he deserved a bit more respect than that.”
Slater was booed during the pre-game ceremony for the game’s retiring players.
He was often booed when returning kicks.
His final on-field interview was also marred by the crowd booing Slater when his interview with Brad Fittler was shown on the big screens inside the stadium.
The lack of respect angered many NRL commentators.
Earlier, Slater was also heckled when vision of him preparing for the game in the dressing rooms was shown on the big screen.
That also angered commentators.
Slater was philosophical after the game, trying to give the Roosters centre stage.
“It’s now how it’s panned out, that’s footy,” Slater said.
“We tried our best but that’s the way it goes. I’m really grateful for the career I’ve had, the friends I’ve made and what rugby league has done for me.
“It taught me lots of things – selflessness, respect. I appreciate everything everyone has done for me
“We didn’t help ourselves. We dropped the ball…we couldn’t handle their big guys. That’s footy. It’s the way it went.”