On-field brilliance, off-field drama, players sacked, coaches dumped - 2014 finally comes to a close Paul Gallen and Robbie Farah celebrate winning the 2014 State of Origin series. THEY were the unforgettable moments that marked season 2014, which has now, after 10 gruelling months, finally concluded. Rugby league has again shown what an erratic beast it can be. On-field brilliance, off-field drama, players sacked, coaches dumped, exhilarating footy. Apisai Koroisau, Sam Burgess, Adam Reynolds and Issac Luke celebrate winning the 2014 NRL Grand Final. The 2014 season however will long be remembered for three defining moments - NSW's epic State of Origin triumph, South Sydney's historic grand final win and New Zealand's memorable Four Nations victory. They saved the season. It seemed everything else was overshadowed. All three moments were, to pinch a cliche, rugby league fairytales. The Blues finally snapped Queensland's eight-year reign - the pure and unbridled euphoria after the game II win in Sydney will never, ever be forgotten. South Sydney, what more can be written. The 43-year drought ended. Grand final night was some occasion, highlights that will continue to be shown for decades. And New Zealand deserve special praise for remaining unbeaten in the Four Nations and ending the season in style. The Kiwis deserved their win, albeit against a weakened Australian side. New Zealand's 22-18 victory on Saturday night certainly delivered a whopping boost to international rugby league. The footy in 2014 was special. No game in Australia can generate more obscure headlines. But, ultimately, the off-field madness will always be overshadowed by what can be achieved on the field. And for that, we will always remember the heroic and famous deeds of South Sydney, New Zealand and Laurie Daley's mighty Blues. Originally published as Curtain finally closes on gruelling season