Good things are said to come to those who are patient.

Since his first Grand Final experience left him feeling “pretty hollow,” almost a year to the day, Wigan Warriors prop Ethan Havard hopes to leave Old Trafford this year with a smile.

This time last year, the 23-year-old experienced a moment of bittersweetness. Havard, who was playing in his first game in three months due to a hamstring tear, hobbled off the field ten minutes after coming off the bench as his Wigan team defeated the Catalan Dragons 10–2.

The England international underwent months of rigorous rehabilitation and recovery protocol, but the problem had returned.

Although playing him had been a risk that didn’t pay off, Hampton isn’t sad about how last year’s championship game turned out. He wants to make a lasting impression with Matt Peet’s team on Saturday against Hull KR after an incredible season, both personally and as a team with his local club.

“Last year was pretty hard,” the front-rower who was born in Bulgaria stated. I don’t regret it because I learned a lot from it, but I kind of wondered if I would do it this time. I just want to do it right.

It left me feeling a little empty. Naturally, I was happy of the boys and what they accomplished, but I didn’t feel like I contributed much to the outcome, which wasn’t a good feeling. For that reason, this year, I want to do everything correctly and give an excellent performance.

“This time, I’ve prepared a little differently. I’m obviously ready to go because I’m fully fit and feel pretty confident going into it. My body is in good shape.”

This year, I’ve been able to progress a little bit closer to the championship. I obviously come into it feeling good since I’ve had a terrific run of games this year.

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