Ryan Papenhuyzen Channels Inner Superman During Grand Final Moment Of Magic

He was awarded the Clive Churchill medal - and rightly so.

Melbourne Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen was absolutely phenomenal in the NRL Grand Final against the Penrith Panthers.

Not only did he score an incredible full-field try, but the 22-year-old also pulled off one of the most miraculous plays we've seen all season.

Papenhuyzen's flawless display helped guide the storm to a 26-20 victory at ANZ stadium.

And he was ultimately rewarded for his efforts after edging out Storm skipper Cameron Smith to clinch the prestigious Clive Churchill medal at full-time.

It caps off a stellar season for the explosive fullback, who was also named in the New South Wales State of Origin squad mid-game by head coach Brad Fittler.

But while Papenhuyzen perhaps put the game to bed with a spectacular try from his own half, it was a moment of magic with less than 15 minutes to go that well and truly stole the show.

With momentum beginning to swing in Penrith's favour, star halfback Nathan Cleary attempted a kick into touch which would have put Melbourne on the back foot.

But just as the ball looked like it was sailing into touch, Papenhuyzen quite literally leapt into action and scooped it back into open play.

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With his feet off the ground and his entire body over the line, the Storm fullback showed incredible agility to keep the ball in play.

Had he not have done it, who knows what the try-hungry Panthers could have done with possession in their hands.

"Papenhuyzen, he left the field of play to rake it back in field and it's play on for Vunivalu," co-commentator Ray Warren said.

"That is a magnificent play by Papenhuyzen."

Former Penrith Panthers general manager and game commentator Phil Gould was equally as impressed.

"He was halfway up Parramatta Road," Gould said.

"Look how far outside the field of play he gets here. He doesn't give up on it, watch this". My god."

When his team needed him most, Papenhuyzen delivered.

And in breathtaking fashion, too.

Topics: Melbourne Storm, Rugby League, nrl, Australia

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry