Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?
Melbourne skipper Cameron Smith says he has been left revitalised by a well overdue mid-season break.
And he believes fellow Storm veteran Billy Slater is "as fast as he has ever been" in the wake of Melbourne's 42-12 NRL win over Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.
In bad news for NSW fans, Queensland captain Smith said he was raring to go for a final season push starting with July 12's State of Origin decider after being rested from their last round clash with Sydney Roosters.
Mind you, he took some convincing.
Smith reluctantly agreed to be sidelined for the Storm's golden-point loss to the tri-colours after the Maroons' Origin II win.
While the loss was painful to watch, Smith said he was now reaping the benefits.
"I was fairly reluctant against the Roosters, but the coaching staff have been trying to twist my arm for years of having time off during the Origin period," he said.
"I just thought this year with the position our footy team is in ... I thought the rest against the Roosters would be a good decision for the team.
"It was nice to have a few days off with the family and recharge the batteries.
"I felt great coming into the Broncos game."
Smith said fellow 34-year-old Slater appeared just as rejuvenated, believing the wily fullback has regained his vintage form since his NRL return in March after almost two years out with shoulder dramas.
"We are really proud of the work he has done to get back into the side," Smith said.
"If he did he was always going to make a huge difference to our side.
"He's as fast as he has ever been I reckon even though he is getting a bit older.
"I just think that two years off has really freshened his body up and he is playing some really good footy."
Slater was again at his destructive best as he helped Melbourne romp home on Friday night.
"I think he is getting more consistent with his efforts now," Smith said.
"He has built up some match fitness.
"He's on the ball more now and his defensive work is as good as it has ever been."
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