Chris Flannery reflects on a ‘great career’

Last weekend’s semi-final defeat to Warrington proved the last outing in Chris Flannery‘s rugby league career.

Flannery, 32, is hanging up his boots having made 137 appearances for St Helens, playing in the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Super League Grand Finals, and winning the Challenge Cup in 2008.

He previously made 126 appearances for Sydney Roosters, appearing in three NRL Grand Finals, during which time he also played State of Origin 10 times for Queensland.

The Australian told St Helens‘ official club website: “”It’s been a great career and I have enjoyed every minute of it. It has been a good ride.

“It’s been immense really, I’ve played State of Origin and in Grand Finals and sometimes those days in the NRL seem a lifetime away.

“The Challenge Cup in 2008 over here was a real highlight, it is something in Australia you dream of doing, running out at Wembley, and it was great to experience that.

“Back home, winning the State of Origin series was good as was the 2002 Grand Final. Special times.”

Flannery made his first grade debut back in 2000 against Wests Tigers, and scored a try in the Roosters’ 2002 Grand Final win over New Zealand Warriors.

He and the Roosters lost the next two finals to Penrith and Canterbury, and he was part of the Saints team beaten by Leeds (twice) and Wigan, although he missed last year’s final.

The back-rower made his Saints bow against Wigan midway through the 2007 season, and scored 42 tries for the “redvee”.