Melbourne player Nick Meaney had a role change at the start of the season, shifting from fullback to centre following Ryan Papenhuyzen's return from injury.
He has taken up this role with great efficiency, helping the Storm reach the 2024 NRL grand final.
The 27-year-old has featured as part of a deadly right edge which includes star halfback Jahrome Hughes, Eli Katoa, and Will Warbrick.
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Speaking on Wednesday ahead of the decider, Meaney pointed to their off-field connection as the secret to their strong campaign.
"We’ve been working on [our combination] heaps. Even just going for coffees together as a group of four to build that connection off the field," he said.
"I think it’s important and it’s reflected on the field."
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The Panthers and Storm have played against each other twice in 2024, with Melbourne taking the win in both meetings.
Meaney believes the Storm need to focus on themselves ahead of Sunday's decider.
"Maybe little things [we'll take from the two wins], but it's a do-or-die game really," he said.
"They've had a few injuries and people in, but I think we're just going to focus on ourselves.
"Obviously, we’ll review the game against the Sharks last week and our game against the Roosters, but it's a new game, so I think anything could happen."
