BEN Barba said an emotional farewell last night after Saints' defeat by Warrington Wolves.

The full back, who will return to the NRL with North Queensland Cowboys, failed in his mission to get to the Grand Final.

And he could not hide his emotions as he lay face down on the turf after the hooter.

He said: "It has been nothing but a wonderful. I have so much love for the people in these stands, who have chanted my name for 30 odd weeks and had my back.

"That is why it is tough that I could not repay the fans who have waited so long for a Premiership with a Grand Fina.

"It is really hurting."