The reigning champions, the Penrith Panthers, secured their spot in their fifth consecutive preliminary final with a commanding 30-10 victory over the Sydney Roosters at BlueBet Stadium. Nathan Cleary, returning from injury, delivered a masterful performance, orchestrating three try assists and demonstrating why he’s a two-time Clive Churchill Medal winner. With this dominant display, Penrith sent a strong signal to their competitors that they are serious contenders for a fourth straight premiership.
Penrith started the game with intensity, scoring four tries in the first half, leaving the Roosters struggling to keep up. Although the Roosters managed to fight back early in the second half, they never truly threatened the Panthers, who maintained control throughout. With this victory, the Panthers are now just one win away from another Grand Final, and their confidence is soaring as they continue their remarkable run in the finals.
The match began with the Panthers capitalizing on an early mistake from the Roosters, as Brian To’o scored the opening try after a well-executed backline play involving Isaah Yeo and Cleary. Cleary’s influence was felt again shortly after when his kick ricocheted off the post, allowing Izack Tago to score their second try within 12 minutes.
The Panthers kept the pressure on, and after earning a repeat set, Jarome Luai stepped inside to score their third try, extending their lead to 16-0. Penrith’s dominance continued as they pinned the Roosters deep in their half, and Mitch Kenny’s clever pass from dummy half set up Luke Garner for another try, making it 24-0 at halftime.
The Roosters, desperately needing a response, managed to score early in the second half. James Tedesco created an opportunity for Joseph Suaalii to score, followed by another try from Tedesco himself after a well-timed pass from rookie Sandon Smith. This narrowed the deficit to 24-10, giving the Roosters a glimmer of hope.
Despite some promising attacks from the Roosters, Penrith’s defense held strong, repelling threats from Joey Manu and Domonic Young. The Panthers sealed the win with eight minutes remaining when Cleary’s precise kick found Luke Garner, who scored his second try of the night, cementing a 30-10 victory and securing a week off before the next round.
The Roosters’ season now hangs in the balance as they prepare to face the winner of Sunday’s elimination final between Canterbury-Bankstown and Manly-Warringah, in what promises to be a thrilling showdown in Sydney.
