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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
grand final news
GRAND TIME TO BE A PANTHERS FAN
Panthers Chairman Dave O’Neill. Photo: Megan Dunn.
Panthers fan Danielle painted her fence in club colours this week. day night there was definitely a tear in the eye and a big smile,” he said. “I was relieved that they finally got there. I was just so happy for everyone. Looking down in the crowd you could see a lot of familiar faces so excited, jumping up and down. “It’s good to get around the town and see all the jerseys and flags – everyone is getting behind the Panthers.” Everything from houses and cars to shop fronts have been decorated in Penrith colours this week. While COVID-19 restrictions mean many of the typical Grand Final week celebrations won’t take place, it hasn’t stopped supporters from getting behind the team in the lead-up to Sunday. And O’Neill has some advice for all of them. “I’m definitely nervous but I’ve had a few people call me this week to say enjoy the week, and I think that’s important,” he said. “Win, lose or draw, we can be really proud of this team.” Proud too because this Penrith team wasn’t rated much of a chance of making the Finals this year, let alone competing
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or Panthers Chairman Dave O’Neill, the full- time siren at ANZ Stadium last Saturday night was one of the sweetest sounds he’s ever heard. It kicked off a week of partying in Penrith as fans celebrated the NRL team’s first Grand Final appearance in 17 years. “It’s amazing for our town. I’ve always said since I’ve been involved with Panthers that when the footy side is going well, the town is going well,” O’Neill told the Weekender this week. “We’ve had such a tough year and here we are in late October with a chance to win a Premiership. It’s really special.” For O’Neill, it’s also a relief. He was the driving force behind the decision to bring coach Ivan Cleary back to Penrith last year. It was a call that split the fan base and the game as a whole, but the decision has now been vindicated.
“At the end of the day bringing Ivan back to Penrith wasn’t about me – it was about the best interests of members and fans,” O’Neill said. “We wanted to win a comp, we haven’t done that yet but we’re in the Grand Final and Ivan was the best guy to try to bring these guys together. “The stress Ivan and his family have had throughout the last two years with him leaving the Wests Tigers has been enormous. It’s great for Ivan to get to the stage where he’s pressing for a title.” O’Neill has been stoic in copping the abuse levelled at him following the decision to bring Cleary back. On the outside, he would answer criticism of the team during the 2019 season with a wry smile and a “we’ll be right”. Deep down, there was enormous pressure building. That pressure was relieved when the clock finally ticked to zero at ANZ Stadium last Saturday. “It’s been tough for myself and my family and when that siren went on Satur-
for the trophy on Grand Final Day. But O’Neill always felt something special was about to unfold. “I’ve been on the Board since 2013 and I’ve been to a lot of training sessions and captain’s runs and what- not, and it was quite obvious from the start of the year that these guys were a special group,” he said. “You could just tell there was something special about this group of players.” O’Neill is also proud of the work that’s been done behind the scenes to ensure the team had the best support possible. “We’ve been lucky under the leadership of CEO Brian Fletcher,” he said. “I couldn’t have got through these last two years without the support of Brian and the Board. We have a very community- focused Board and that is really important.” Whatever happens come Sunday night, there is an enormous amount to celebrate out of the 2020 season. A Premiership would be the ultimate reward, but the club has broken records left, right and centre and built a squad capable of creating a much-needed era of success at the foot of the Mountains.
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TROY DODDS
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
the road ROUND 1
The Panthers survive a strong first half from the Sydney Roosters, bouncing back from 12-0 down to win 20-14 at Panthers Stadium. Brent Naden, Stephen Crichton and Viliame Kikau score tries in the win.
ROUND 5
Penrith lose their only game of the season, going down 16-10 to Parramatta. The Panthers have control of the match until a horror 10 minutes in the second half, where the Eels score three tries to take the lead.
ROUND 9
Charlie Staines scores four tries on debut as the Panthers demolish Cronulla 56-24 at Kogarah Oval. It’s a strong win, but it’s also full of rare defensive lapses unseen for most of the season.
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ROUND 2
The NRL goes behind closed doors due to COVID-19, and it’s a point-scoring avalanche at Kogarah Oval. The Dragons take a 16-12 lead into half-time, but Penrith does enough in the second half to win 32-28.
ROUND 6
Penrith start what would become a 17 match winning streak with a 21-14 win over Melbourne. A 76th minute field goal from a calm Nathan Cleary ices a rare win over Craig Bellamy’s side.
ROUND 10
Crowds return to Panthers Stadium and Penrith delivers for the fans, recording a scrappy 22-10 win over North Queensland. A late Nathan Cleary try out wide seals the win against a plucky Cowboys side.
ROUND 3
Rugby league returns from shutdown and the Panthers and Knights play out a 14-all draw at Penrith’s temporary home of Campbelltown Stadium. Matt Burton misses five shots at field goal in the extra time thriller.
ROUND 7
Nathan Cleary rises from his hospital bed after a cellulitis battle to help Penrith to a 20-12 win over Souths at yet another home ground, Kogarah Oval. The Panthers took an 8-0 lead into half-time.
ROUND 11
Josh Mansour, Stephen Crichton, Isaah Yeo and Malakai Watene-Zelezniak score tries as Penrith travels to the Gold Coast and records a determined 22-14 win over the Titans. Gold Coast fails to score in the second half.
ROUND 4
Matt Burton scores two tries in the first 25 minutes to kickstart a shutout out of the Warriors at Campbelltown Stadium. The Panthers lead 16-0 at half-time and go on to win 26-0 in front of an empty stadium.
ROUND 8
Stephen Crichton scores in the opening minutes to give Penrith the strongest possible start against Wests Tigers. The Panthers ultimately win the ferocious contest 19-12, coming from 10-6 down at the break.
ROUND 12
Penrith produces a seventh straight win in impressive fashion, decimating Manly 42-12 at Lottoland. Charlie Staines continues his stunning rookie form, bagging two tries in the big win.
ROUND 13
Penrith rush to a 24-0 half-time lead over Canberra, but can’t cross the line in the second half. Two Nathan Cleary penalty goals helps Penrith home 28-12 in front of a small crowd at Panthers Stadium.
ROUND 17
Ivan Cleary’s side records an incredible 12th straight win, beating Brisbane 25-12 at Suncorp Stadium. The Broncos score first but Penrith wrestle back the momentum to score the next three tries.
ROUND 14
History is created in Gosford with Penrith winning a club record ninth straight game, holding on in wet conditions to beat the Warriors 18-12. Brent Naden, Api Koroisau and Dylan Edwards score tries.
ROUND 18
The Panthers warm up for the Finals with an impressive 20-2 victory over Parramatta at Panthers Stadium. A tight first half explodes to life when Josh Mansour scores just before the break.
FINALS WEEK 1
The Panthers go down early against the defending Premiers, but quickly wrestle back the ascendency with a Josh Mansour try, followed by a first half hat-trick from Nathan Cleary. The Roosters keep coming, but the Panthers earn a week off with a thrilling 29-28 victory.
ROUND 15
For the second time in the season, Cronulla are no match for the Panthers. Viliame Kikau scores in the third minute to set up a comprehensive 38-12 victory. The Panthers took a 22-6 lead into half-time.
ROUND 19
The Panthers head to Townsville and are switched on from the start, scoring three tries in the opening 15 minutes. They take a 20-0 lead into half-time and eventually win 32-12, sealing the minor premiership.
ROUND 16
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
to glory Wests Tigers shock Penrith with an early try, but the scoring ends there. The Panthers click into gear to open up a 14-6 half-time lead, before going on with the job in the second half to win 30-6.
ROUND 20
Penrith sound a final warning siren to the rest of the competition, delivering a 42-0 thumping of Canterbury at ANZ Stadium. The Panthers are presented with the J.J. Giltinan Shield after the match.
FINALS WEEK 2
The Panthers bring an end to the Rabbitohs’ strong Finals run with a thrilling 20-16 Preliminary Final victory at ANZ Stadium, extending their winning streak to 17. The Panthers were shaky, but held their nerve to produce a memorable win and qualify for the Grand Final.
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
PANTHERS CORPORATE KICK-OFF
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the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
match preview Nathan Cleary wrestles with Adam Reynolds last Saturday. Photo: NRL Images.
v TROY DODDS
F
irst the critics said the Panthers wouldn’t make the top eight. Then those same critics declared Penrith needed to lose before the Finals – that their long winning streak would be a hindrance, not a help. Not content with striking out twice, they then declared Penrith had a soft draw and would be found out by an experienced outfit like the Roosters in the Finals. Wrong again. Last week, convinced by three weeks of high scores and an in-form Cody Walker, those critics had Souths doing a number on Ivan Cleary’s side. And now they say Melbourne have this Grand Final won. The lesson here is to stop listening to those who think they know this team. They don’t, and the egg on their face from a year of wrong predictions proves it. This is a 50/50 Grand Final – no doubt about it. Melbourne has been on this stage before, and their experience in big games is second to none. The Storm also rarely lose milestone games, and with Cameron Smith’s retirement announcement likely to come soon after Grand Final day,
the final word SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 | 7.30PM | ANZ STADIUM | REFEREE: GERARD SUTTON there’s no hiding what will be motivating Craig Bellamy’s side on Sunday. They were sensational against Canberra, firing out of the blocks and powering down the Green Machine after just 10 minutes of play at Suncorp Stadium. Penrith did it tougher. They too could have put Souths away early but whether it was Nathan Cleary’s misguided pass to Brian To’o out wide, Jarome Luai’s kick instead of a pass on the inside to open players or Josh Mansour’s forward pass to Kurt Capewell, things just didn’t stick. As has been the case all year, however, the Panthers found a way. They defended their hearts out, and thanks to Isaah Yeo and Api Koroisau, won the battle up the middle that eventually proved critical. A few things have to happen for Penrith to beat this powerhouse Melbourne side on Sunday night. First, they need an even share of possession. You don’t beat Melbourne when you allow them to control the game, and Canberra were gone as soon as the Storm started to dominate time with the ball. Penrith have managed to win the possession battle throughout the season, topping the competition with an average
of 54.6 per cent per game. Melbourne are second with 51.8 per cent. Second, Isaah Yeo needs to play the full 80 minutes. I wouldn’t be surprised if coach Ivan Cleary has had one eye on the Grand Final, managing Yeo’s time to ensure he plays the entire game. The Panthers lack some punch when he goes off the field and the side will need everything he’s got on Sunday. Cleary this week named Brent Naden at centre and Tyrone May on the bench, but the door is open for him to again roll the dice and move May into the starting side. While Naden has had some brilliant moments in 2020 and emerged as a fan favourite, he missed six tackles against the Roosters in week one of the Finals and Cleary felt a safer option was needed. If Naden does drop back to the bench, I doubt he’ll remain unused this week. His impact cannot be left out of the contest entirely. While the Storm have been impressive for much of the season, there’s no question that their defence slipped from its usual standards towards the end of the year. In the final three rounds, they conceded 20 or more points – all against
teams outside of the top eight. In week one of the Finals, Parramatta put 24 points on them too. It means there’s points to be scored if Penrith can ensure the passes stick and the panic button isn’t pushed. The return of a fresh Viliame Kikau from suspension has the potential to be immense for Penrith. Kikau is a wrecking ball but has probably been a little off the pace in recent months – now is his chance to be unleashed in a season decider, and you get the feeling he could be the player to break the Grand Final wide open. But for me, the deciding factor in this game is Dally M Halfback of the Year Nathan Cleary. His kicking game is the key to victory – and the stats back this up. He topped the competition in kick metres, all kicks and 40/20s – and if he can manage this match with that kicking game, it will give Penrith the best possible chance of being in front come full-time. Do Melbourne deserve their favouritism for this one? Probably. But this Penrith side has made a habit of proving people wrong. It would be fitting to do it again on the grandest stage. Tip: Panthers by 1.
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
grand final news
COACH READY TO SILENCE CRITICS TROY DODDS
M
onday marked five years to the day that Ivan Cleary was sensationally sacked by Phil Gould as Penrith coach. Fast forward to 2020 and rugby league has delivered an almighty comeback story. On that October day in 2015, Gould said Cleary was tired. Well, he’s wide awake now – and he’s woken Penrith from its slumber too. And while much of the focus this week will be on the 34 players who run out onto ANZ Stadium on Sunday night, for Cleary, Grand Final night could finally deliver the silverware that has eluded him for nearly 30 years. From 186 first grade games as a player to more than 350 in the coach’s box, Cleary’s premiership dreams have been long and, at times, arduous. For so long he has been touted as a re-build coach – but the time for building is over. This is his chance. “I can’t really sum it up quickly,” Cleary said of Penrith’s first Grand Final appearance in 17 years. “I feel extremely proud and happy and
Ivan Cleary is hoping to lead Penrith to its third Grand Final victory. Photo: NRL Images. grateful. It’s the second best feeling you can have, getting into a Grand Final.” Winning on Sunday will be tough, but in many ways, getting there is tougher. “It’s very hard to get here,” Cleary said. “I’m very grateful and proud of the boys. “The dream is to win it.”
It is that dream that has ensured Cleary remained focused despite the enormous pressure and backlash that followed his defection from the Wests Tigers back to the foot of the Mountains in 2019. And while the 49-year- old would likely never admit it, victory on Sunday night
will be all the sweeter given it would silence the critics that were determined to see his second stint at Penrith fail. Far from a failure, Ivan Cleary is on the cusp of doing what just two coaches have done before him – bringing the trophy back to rugby league heartland.
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the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
grand final news
CLEARY WINS COACH OF THE YEAR TROY DODDS
P
enrith coach Ivan Cleary has paid tribute to his players and staff after taking home his second Dally M Coach of the Year award on Monday
point behind Parramatta captain Clinton Gutherson. Cleary failed to poll points in the final round match against Canterbury, ultimately costing him the award. His early-season suspension for breaching the NRL’s bubble rules also impacted his final tally. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo congratulated all players involved in what was the most challenging season in the game’s history, thanking them for their commitment. “Tonight we honoured our most exceptional players in an extraordinary season,’’ Mr Abdo said on Monday. “Despite unprecedented challenges our players took our game to a new level in 2020. Tonight we celebrated our very best, those who provided so much excitement and hope during a challenging time in our community. “Congratulations to Jack on creating history, winning the Dally M Medal in such a tough and uncompromising season. His feats will forever be etched into rugby league folklore.”
Photo: NRL Images.
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night. The 49- year- old has guided Penrith to this year’s Grand Final on the back of a club record 17 straight wins in a season full of challenges, none bigger than the COVID-19 pandemic that at one stage shut down the competition. Accepting the award during the Dally M virtual ceremony at Fox League on Monday, the 350- plus game coaching veteran said he’s grateful for what’s been an incredible ride this year. “One of the proudest things for me as a coach is watching our boys play and how much they love it,” he said. “That’s the same with the staff as well. A coach is nothing without his players and staff and I have outstanding players and tremendous staff.” Penrith missed the Finals last year in what was Cleary’s return to the club, but the group had confidence they could do something special in season 2020.
“We started the year without a lot of love out there but we had a lot of belief in ourselves before anyone else did,” Cleary said. “Each game we just seemed to grow in confidence and get better and better as the wins racked up.” Showing his usual calm, measured approach that we see in the coach’s box or in post- match press conferences, Cleary refused to take full credit for Penrith’s record-breaking year. “I turn up to work each day and do my best,” he said. “I have an incredible staff with me, it’s certainly a team effort.” The Panthers’ special season was also recognised with five awards in the Dally M Team of the Year, highlighted by Nathan Cleary being named Halfback of the Year. Prop James Fisher-Harris, second rower Viliame Kikau, lock Isaah Yeo and centre Stephen Crichton were also named in the Team of the Year, which for the first time saw a full 13-man team honoured. Nathan Cleary missed out on the Dally M Player of the Year gong, with Canberra’s Jack Wighton taking home the major award in a nail-biting final count. Cleary ultimately finished third in the count, two points behind Wighton and a
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LUAI MAINTAINS PRE-GAME ROUTINE NATHAN TAYLOR
I
n classic Jarome Luai fashion, two things are keeping this ‘cool cat’ calm and focused during a hectic Grand Final Week – family and computer games. While his teammates will have their own ways of passing the time before Sunday’s big clash against the Storm, Luai’s been firing up his PC – just like he’s done every other week during this historic season. “That’s how I cope with it all, the pressure and that sort of stuff,” Luai said. “The missus gives me my time on the computer, but I also love hanging out with my son and my wife too. It keeps me calm.” Much like he has been all year, 23-yearold Luai was one of the standouts for the Panthers in last Saturday night’s thrilling Preliminary Final victory over Souths. Despite Penrith being the better side for much of the contest, the Bunnies made it rather interesting in the final few minutes – or what felt like an eternity for the players on the field and the fans in the stands. “Those last few minutes felt like 30 or 40,” Luai admitted.
A ‘bloody’ Jarome Luai celebrates last Saturday’s win. Photo: NRL Images. “Towards the end of the game I copped a bit of a knock from Critta (Stephen Crichton) and I had heaps of blood everywhere, but I just kept telling myself ‘you’re a couple of minutes away from a Grand Final, you can’t lose this’.
“Thankfully we stuck in there against the best attacking team in the comp and we all felt that team song in the sheds after the game.” South Sydney had been carving up their opponents in the weeks leading up to
last weekend’s game but only managed to record 16 points against the Minor Premiers, in what was largely an errorriddled contest. Luai said Penrith’s incredible defence, which hasn’t let them down all year, will need to be even better this Sunday against Melbourne. “We are a resilient team and we’ve shown that throughout the year. I think our defence last week definitely saved us from a possible loss and we have to learn from that,” he said. “In a game of Finals footy, it all comes down to who controls the ball the best and who defends well. I’ve never got any doubt in this defence that we have, I’m really confident if we put our best foot forward this week then we’ll put up a good fight.” While 2020 has thrown up its fair set of challenges for the entire planet, the Panthers have embraced every single hurdle they’ve come across and it will be no different come Sunday night. “We’re just excited to be in the position that we are in, we’re so grateful,” Luai said. “Everyone has had a tough year and I’m sure it’s a year that everyone would rather forget, but for us it’s one we want to remember.”
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
grand final news
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TAMOU HOPES FOR DREAM GOODBYE NATHAN TAYLOR
A
James Tamou chatting with Weekender journalist Nathan Taylor. Photo: Megan Dunn. “I don’t think I could ever compare the two Premierships if we win, but in 2015 I was playing under some pretty good leaders at the Cowboys, but now I’m the leader,
I’m the captain, I’m the oldest bloke in the team – there’s a lot of emotions in that alone,” he said. With Tamou one of three current Penrith
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fter what he admits has been an “up and down” four years at the foot of the Mountains, outgoing Panthers captain James Tamou would love nothing more than the dream send-off. While the 31- year- old’s career will kick on for another couple of years at the Wests Tigers, the inspirational skipper would love to leave Penrith with his own farewell gift… the Provan-Summons Trophy. “I try not to think about it because I don’t want to get too emotional but what a way to go out,” Tamou told the Weekender. “Since arriving at Penrith I’ve learned what this club means to the community. When it’s all said and done it’s going to be a sad moment for me but hopefully, we’ll be celebrating with a Premiership.” Having won a Grand Final in 2015 with Johnathan Thurston’s North Queensland Cowboys, Tamou said winning a title with Penrith – as their captain – would be up there as a career highlight. If Tamou hoists the trophy this Sunday night, he’ll be just the third Panthers skipper behind Craig Gower and Greg Alexander to do so.
players to taste Premiership success, he’ll be using his experience this week to help steer his troops to Grand Final glory. Tamou said pacing yourself and leaving it all on the line when it counts will be his two key messages. “You don’t want to play the game too early – you don’t want to get too hot – you want to save your energy for later in the game,” he said. “Also, when you are out on the field, I’ll be telling them to let it all out – this is it, this is the last one. We’ve come this far, you might as well keep going. Leave nothing in the tank.” While 14 Panthers players will experience the grandest stage for the first time this weekend, their opponents, Melbourne, have been to four of the past five deciders and clearly hold the experience card in their hands. Tamou said if his side can get their execution right against the Storm and bring the best out of each other, then Penrith will be partying long into the night. “I can’t wait to lead these boys, it’s going to very special,” he said. “Melbourne are a scary prospect – they are quick and they execute so well – but we’ll do our homework this week and we’ll do our best.”
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
grand final news
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
grand final news
SHARK ALERT FOR SEASON DECIDER A
ustralian indie pop star Amy Shark will headline the pre- match entertainment at the NRL Grand Final on Sunday night. The singer- songwriter, who hails from the Gold Coast and just last week earned multiple ARIA nominations, embraced the bushfire- impacted communities of the South Coast when she headlined the NRL’s Festival of Footy at Bega in February. Now she’ll bookend the season by performing on the game’s biggest day. “Amy’s career has sky-rocketed in recent years and she is now one of Australia’s most popular artists. Having Amy as our pre-game entertainment is a tribute to the success of a talented Australian artist who is also part of the rugby league family,” NRL Chief Executive Andrew Abdo said. “We are always looking for opportunities to celebrate Australian talent. Amy Shark is an Australian artist with a global following. Her live performance will provide the perfect build- up to the biggest and most exciting game of the season.”
Amy Shark’s latest single ‘C’mon’ feat. Travis Barker has been released this week – perfect timing ahead of the season decider on Sunday. “The single was written about the highs and lows that come with being a musician, something our players can certainly relate to as professional athletes,” Mr Abdo said. “For her to perform that single on Grand Final Day will be a great tribute to all our players and fans who sacrificed so much in 2020 to get us to our Grand Finals. “Grand Final Day in 2020 will be a day of celebration, unity and saying thank you for all those who came together to keep the game going this year. Amy’s performance will be an important part of that.” Shark said particularly given the nature of the year, she was thrilled to be able to perform on stage at such an event. “It’s been a really tough year for rugby league and live entertainment so I’m really excited to be bringing the band and crew together for this exciting pre-match performance,” she said.
Amy Shark will perform at this year’s NRL Grand Final. a special tribute to Arthur Summons, as well as the Ken Stephen and Veronica White Medal presentation. The pre- match show at ANZ Stadium will begin at 6.30pm.
“I can’t wait to celebrate the finalists on the field and bring some live music to homes across Australia.” The pre- match entertainment will also feature the 2020 Retiring Players Tribute,
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Viliame Kikau can’t wait to play in his first NRL Grand Final. Photo: Megan Dunn. biggest game of his career after being suspended for a Dangerous Throw. The 2020 Dally M Second Rower of the Year said he was full of emotion and negative thoughts when the one- match sentence was handed down. “When I walked out of the judiciary hearing, which was held at the Panthers
Academy over Zoom, I felt like I let the whole team and club down,” Kikau said. “On the car ride home, I nearly cried – just thinking how it was a do-or-die game and we wouldn’t have another chance if we lost.” With his emotions all over the place, Kikau returned to the Academy the next
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hen the full-time siren sounded at ANZ Stadium last Saturday evening, a rumble could be felt from the middle of the Pacific. No, it wasn’t a quake or tremor, it was Viliame Kikau’s Fijian village erupting with joy. Just hours after the Panthers qualified for their first NRL Grand Final in 17 years, Kikau spent the early part of Sunday morning replying to messages and chatting with family back home. Even though Kikau missed the clash with the Rabbitohs due to suspension, he said he felt every single emotion a fan endures on a weekly basis. “I was more nervous for this game than when I’m playing. When the Rabbitohs were attacking our line with five minutes to go, I couldn’t watch… I just had my head down,” Kikau told the Weekender. “I was telling my family how nervous I was, and they said: ‘now you know how we feel’. When the game was over, I was so relieved and so happy for the boys.” Kikau’s happiness and relief was the result of a harrowing two weeks for the 25- year- old, who had to sit out of the
day with a much more positive mindset after his teammates flooded him with support. “I was surprised when the boys walked up to me. They all told me to keep my head up, get my body right and that they’ll get this win – it made me feel good,” he said. “Even though I wasn’t playing, I still tried my heart out at training last week… just trying to help the boys out in any way that I could.” More than three weeks since his last game, fans are expecting huge things from the loveable Fijian in this Sunday’s Grand Final. A real x-factor with and without the ball, a refreshed and rejuvenated Kikau is a massive chance of pulling off a Clive Churchill Medal-winning performance. Kikau said if wasn’t for the pandemic and border closures, he’d have his whole family at ANZ Stadium this weekend for the decider. “It’s really hard because, if everything was normal, I definitely would have flown Mum and Dad over for the game, instead she’s going to put a projector outside our house on the porch so everyone can watch,” he said. “Luckily one of my older brothers lives in Penrith with his family, so he’ll be there on Sunday cheering us on.”
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
grand final news
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Friday, October 23, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender
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NEW MEMBER OF CAPTAIN’S CLUB? NATHAN TAYLOR
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enrith’s past Premiership- winning captains Greg Alexander and Craig Gower know exactly what it’s like to have the weight of an entire city on their shoulders. While current skipper James Tamou will feel that weight of expectation for himself this Sunday night, Alexander and Gower strongly believe they’ll be adding a third member to their exclusive Captain’s Club come full-time. Alexander, who guided Penrith to their first Premiership in 1991, said Grand Final week is always exciting but even more so this year that the Panthers are involved. “Grand Finals are fantastic, to be involved this year is very special,” he said.
“Grand Final week is always very exciting; the memories keep flooding back. After seeing replays of past Grand Finals on Fox all week, it’s a completely different feeling now that the boys are in it.” Alexander said winning Penrith’s first title 29 years ago will always hold a special place in his heart, but it’s the 2003 Grand Final win over the Sydney Roosters that excites him more. “I only just joined the Panthers’ Board in 2003, so that was a good omen,” he said. “I think I was way more excited when we won in ‘03 than ‘91, because it’s a different kind of feeling when you’re not playing. “This year will be pretty much the same. If we can get up over Melbourne, wow it would cap off what’s been incredible year.” This Sunday’s blockbuster against the Storm will be the first time Penrith have
2003 Premiership-winning captain Craig Gower. Photo: NRL Images.
contested an NRL Grand Final since Craig Gower led his magic team to victory 17 years ago. Speaking with the Weekender, Gower said it’s been an exciting and historymaking season for Penrith that still has one more chapter left to write. “It’s always good to see the Panthers doing well,” he said. “I know firsthand what it means to the community if our football team is winning, so hopefully they’ll get the chocolates on Sunday.” Prior to the pandemic, Gower spent some time in Penrith’s gym and one thing caught his eye that he’ll never forget. “I saw how the team was progressing. I witnessed the camaraderie between the boys, and I think that’s excelled as they gained momentum during the season,” he said.
“Going on a winning streak the way they have has been fantastic for them and it’s certainly put them in a great position now.” Just like his side in 2003 against the Roosters, Penrith will go into this weekend’s game as outsiders with the bookmakers. Gower said their underdog status shouldn’t affect them as long as they are prepared and switched on. “The big thing is not being overawed by the situation,” he said. “They just have to go through the same processes as they have all year and just enjoy the moment. “I know the boys will do that, they just seem to have a level head on them. With the confidence they’re showing and the way they are playing for each other, being underdogs shouldn’t be a problem.”
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
GRAND FINAL NEWS
Greg Alexander guided Penrith to the 1991 Premiership.
PANTHERS LIGHT UP BRIDGE The Sydney Harbour Bridge has been illuminated with iconic images of rugby league’s most historic season ahead of the Grand Final on Sunday. The bridge’s famous pylons were lit up on Wednesday night with images from every single club which tell the story of a season like no other. The display will stay switched on until Sunday. “This year has been an extraordinary season. The images captured in 2020 will remain etched in the hearts and minds of our players and fans for decades to come,’’ said NRL CEO Andrew Abdo.
“The sacrifices of the Warriors, the bond between a father and son, Cameron Smith being carried off Suncorp Stadium, the brilliance of the NRLW Broncos. There are more than 40 iconic moments in an iconic season that will light up the city this week.” The display will include images featuring every club and pay tribute to some of the game’s retiring players. Penrith features prominently in the display, highlighted by what’s quickly becoming an iconic image of Nathan and Ivan Cleary.
The Penrith Panthers feature on the Sydney Harbour Bridge display.
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
game day guide
GET READY FOR THE BIG GAME: HERE W
hether you’re heading to the ground, watching at home or stuck at work, we’ve got your Grand Final Day planning covered... Schedule of events Gates at ANZ Stadium will open at 3.15pm. The NRLW Grand Final between the Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos kicks off at 4.05pm, with a presentation to follow. There will be a tribute to retiring players before the NRL Grand Final as well as the presentation of the Ken Stephen Medal. Amy Shark will headline the pre- match entertainment. The NRL Grand Final is scheduled to commence at 7.30pm. Getting tickets A limited number of NRL Grand Final tickets are still available from Ticketek, or head to www.nrl.com/tickets. Getting to the ground The main car park at ANZ Stadium, P1, is already sold out, but parking is available in other car parks. Those driving need to pre- book parking and can do so via the Sydney Olympic Park website. If you’re catching a train, express services from
The Panthers will run out onto ANZ Stadium just before 7.30pm on Sunday. Photo: NRL Images.
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the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW! Penrith to Sydney Olympic Park will leave regularly from around 2pm, with return services running from full-time until late. Food and beverage A number of restaurants and bars will be open around ANZ Stadium on game day. Bookings are recommended where possible. Food outlets and bars will also be open inside ANZ Stadium on levels 1, 4 and 6. COVID-safe protocols ANZ Stadium is currently a cashless venue, which means you’ll need to pay for items like food, drinks and merchandise using a card. Masks should be worn when you’re not in your seat, and alcohol can only be consumed while seated. Fans are advised to follow all directions from staff in relation to specific COVID protocols. Television coverage Channel Nine are the exclusive rights holders to the Grand Final. Nine will kick off its Grand Final Day coverage at 10am with ‘The Greatest: NRL Grand Finals’, followed by ‘Sports Sunday’ and ‘The Sunday Footy Show’. They’ll show the NRLW Grand Final, then break for news at 6pm before returning will full cover-
age from the ground and then the match broadcast, spearheaded by Ray Warren. Fox League will air a replay of the Grand Final with their own commentary team from 10pm. Warren Smith, Braith Anasta and Michael Ennis will call the game. Radio coverage 2GB’s Continuous Call Team will be on air from 1pm, with Ray Hadley to call the Panthers v Storm decider at 7.30pm. Andrew Moore will call the game for ABC 702 while Triple M will also have a live broadcast of the match, with coverage commencing at 1pm. Online coverage You can watch the game live online in Australia using 9NOW. Live score updates are available through www.nrl.com. The Western Weekender will provide score updates on Facebook and Twitter. Merchandise The Panthers released a special Grand Final t- shirt, which has now sold out. Other merchandise is available at the Panthers Shop at Panthers Leagues Club, or online at www.penrithpanthers.com. au. Merchandise will also be available for sale at ANZ Stadium on Sunday.
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Betting odds Betting agencies have Melbourne as favourites to win the Grand Final. Sportsbet earlier this week posted Melbourne as $1.75 favourites with Penrith at $2.15. “Before the Preliminary Finals punters were evenly divided between Penrith and Melbourne. Then the Storm did a demolition job on Canberra and they are now all the rage,’’ said Sportsbet’s Rich Hummerston. Those wanting to have a bet on the game can do so at their local TAB agency or online through TAB, Sportsbet, Ladbrokes or any other online licenced betting site. TAB facilities will also be available at ANZ Stadium. Extra Time The Weekender will produce a special edition of Extra Time next week.
The ‘voice of rugby league’, Ray Warren, will call the game.
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
FANS BACK THE s! What a cracking season Legend In a pretty ordinary year it’s been unreal to watch you guys go around each week. It’s been great for the game and great for n Panther-town. Congrats to Iva y and the whole team for the wa ts that you’ve played. A big congra e also to the younger guys who hav the t come into the team throughou year – well done guys. Now for the Big One! Let’s get it done! Go Panthers.
Big Nev (Clinton Neville)
The only person you must prove yourself to is yourself. You’ve earnt this boys, now rip in and bring it home!
Ben Cummins & family
Hi there, I am a huge Pan thers fan and I am living in Por tland, Victoria. I want the boys to know that th ey have a handful of very loyal fa ns in this part of th e country and that we are chee ring you all on in every momen t of this amazing journey. You are all PANTHERS!!! Tim e to show them all what that means . Good luck guys from Portland, Victoria. Yay!!!
Troy Polhuis W20
It’s this very m oment that nobo dy can take away from us! T he overwhelmin g feeling of happiness an d Panther pride will live forever in our m inds and in our hearts. Many of us have waited many ye ars for this momen t. We’ve felt th is back in 1991 and 2003. Some are only ex periencing this for the first time. My ad vice to them, enjoy the ride guys and re member this moment. Fr om Cleary to Lu ai to Yeo to Mansour, th ese names and so many others will be et ched in our hear ts. This young team has worked so hard and their determination ha s now made them legendary. No amount of thankyou’s w ill ever express how grat eful we are to ha ve such great men repres enting our belove d club. We are now liv ing the dream! T hank you for bringing lif e back into our beautiful Penrith town!
tions boys. Congratula atchI get from w t en m te ci ex The s me of play remind s y u g u o y g in watched ago when I over 50 yrs the the field for e k ta th ri Pen day. was the best first time, it for the enthusiasm d n a e d ri p My ged. I s never chan a h s er th n a P w and llawarra no live in the I s when e nurses’ face th n o k o lo e th Roostnd beat the you played a s on! ring you guy ee ch s a w I ers... d Final on in the Gran ck lu f o t es B t. Sunday nigh
Dear the Mighty Panthers, I just wanted to say wow what a year 2020 has turned out to be! I have had the pleasure of watching you at home due to COVID restrictions but have also been very lucky and fortunate enough to witness you live at some games too. Here’s just a few to list: Penrith VS Cowboys, Penrith VS Tigers, Minor Premiership VS Bulldogs at ANZ and most recently your game against the Chooks. I am so proud of you all and I hope you keep it up. You are winners that never stop trying! Wishing you Panthers boys all the best for 2020 because it is our year. Lots of love from your biggest fan!
Annyta Adams
Jim Fettell
Georgia Marie Cleary
In September 2003, my wife and I discussed whether I could attend the Grand Final against the Roosters. My argument was that it would be the first time I had seen the team I had supported since I was six in a live Grand Final. Her argument was that our third child was due to be born on September the 30th. My counter-argument was that, if the Panthers won, it would be only the second time they had won a Grand Final in my lifetime, whereas it was my third child, so... Jokes aside, I’m even more excited by the almost invincibility the squad is exhibiting this year than I was during 2003. Our defence is in order. Our attack is humming. I think we’re about to have a third child... I mean, Grand Final victory.
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
PANTHERS Wishing P anthers pla yers and coaching st aff all the best of good luck fo r their 4th Grand Final appe arance – r e m ember to focus on the bits and pie full 80 mins (not ces), more communication wit h your tea mmates an following d your game plan, play hard and n ever give u p your dream of w inning the big one and bringin g the troph y home.
Tom Baldwin
Catherine Pir o
ns a tough few seaso Boys, it has been nst us ai lot of people ag especially with a You r let it get to you. but you guys neve ch m and support ea work hard as a tea ve ha I . ld s on the fie other which show b for clu es ber of the leagu been a staff mem e th am so proud to see 20 years now and n he within the club w passion and hype It . m tea e th ers about talking to custom urK e th g family and shows we are a bi u. yo always be behind tiak family will get the , don’t let nerves So good luck guys n and ember to have fu better of you, rem Yeah g. in have been do just do what you
Wishing Panthers all the best of good luck for their 4th Grand Final appearance... H ope we bring home the NRL trophy to Penrith again. Rememb er to play hard and never give up the dream of bringing the NRL trophy home. Go Panthers!
Chad Russell
the boys!
Hi, my name is Michael Dem psey, I’m 35-years-old an d I’ve been a P enrith Fan for 35 year s! In my time I’ve been so lucky to see the mighty Pan thers win two Grand Finals, and fo r that I am VERY gr ateful! But Now I have five kids and N ONE of them have seen Penrith w in a Grand Fin al, but it would mean th e world to them and me if we could be part of Penrith Panthers history! So com e Sunday I wan t you to know that you penny Panther s are going to be the greate st NRL team in modern history! When you put on that Jersey just remember you’re a MIG H T Y PANTHER M AN and we’re all with you 100 per ce nt of the way.
Surrounded by all of our jerseys we’ve collected over the many years of being loyal supporters, we will be cheering our boys on this Sunday to bring home the win. The highlight of this season has been watching the boys go through the amazing winning streak and winning the Minor Premiership. Go the Mighty Panthers!!!
Lee & Kellie Weyman
tta
ily
Natalie Kurtiak & fam
Michael Dempsey W21
Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
the opposition
STORM SURVIVE TOUGHEST TEST NATHAN TAYLOR
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elbourne Storm captain Cameron Smith has achieved everything there is in the game of rugby league, but he believes winning this Sunday’s NRL Grand Final may be the most significant of them all. Just like the New Zealand Warriors, who had to relocate to Australia due to border closures, the Storm have had to make numerous sacrifices just to take the field this season. Not only did they have to leave behind their homes, friends and comfy beds for a resort in south- east Queensland, but not once were they able to play in front of their home fans at AAMI Park. “It’s been a very different year, we’ve had a lot of challenges being away from home,” Smith said. “We haven’t been in our own homes and our own beds for nearly five months, it’s been very difficult at various stages throughout the season. “Fortunately we have a resilient group and, if we weren’t resilient, we wouldn’t be involved in this game this week.” Melbourne have been the premier
club in the competition for more than a decade, this weekend’s Grand Final against Penrith will be their fourth in five years. Smith said while all premierships are special in their own way, a win this Sunday would rate “extremely high against the others”. “2012 was special for certain reasons, same with ‘17. If we were to win this one, it would be special considering what we’ve had to go through this year,” he said. While winning a Grand Final during the COVID era would be hard to top, a win in what could be your final game of rugby league would be the icing on the cake. After being chaired off Suncorp Stadium by his teammates last Friday night, speculation has mounted all week whether the 429-game veteran will finally pull up stumps after Sunday’s big game. Smith said all the focus should be on the mouth-watering clash against Penrith, not his future. “It’s 1 v 2 – everyone should be excited by that, it makes for a wonderful contest,” the 37-year-old said. “Both teams aren’t frightened to use the footy and I’ve heard it might be a little bit wet in Sydney on the weekend, but that’s not going to change the way we play
Will Cameron Smith retire after Sunday’s Grand Final? Photo: NRL Images. drastically. We want to go down there and play some footy because, if we don’t, then we aren’t giving ourselves an opportunity to win. We’re going to have to play some footy to beat Penrith.” A sell- out crowd – mostly made up of passionate Panthers supporters – is expected by kick- off on Sunday evening. Smith said the Storm are more than
comfortable playing in front of a Penrithmad crowd. “Every game we’ve played this year there’s been more support for the opposition than us, so we’re used to that,” he said. “At the end of the day, the crowd isn’t going to win the game, the two teams will decide the result.”
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the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
panthers v storm: by the numbers
MELBOURNE HOLDS DOMINANT HAND A
s Penrith and Melbourne prepare for the Grand Final this Sunday night, we look at the history of battles between the clubs, plus other key factors that could play a role in the season decider. Melbourne’s domination The Panthers and Storm have played 35 times since Melbourne entered the NRL in 1998. The Storm have a strong record against Penrith, winning 26 matches and losing nine, the most recent loss being this year at Campbelltown Stadium. Turning the tables At one stage between 2006 and 2012, Penrith went on an 11 game losing streak against Melbourne. And then between 2014 and 2017, it was six straight losses. But things have turned around a little of late – Penrith have won two of their last three matches against the Storm. The ANZ factor Melbourne have a strong record at ANZ Stadium, winning 64 per cent of their matches at the Olympic venue. Overall Penrith have won 46 per cent of games played there. But recent history tells an interesting story. Penrith have won their
last five games straight at ANZ Stadium, including two Finals matches. Melbourne meanwhile have lost three of their last five games at the venue. Scoreless Storm Incredibly, Melbourne have been held scoreless in the first half in four Grand Finals at ANZ Stadium (1999, 2008, 2016 and 2018). Man in the middle Gerard Sutton has refereed just one game between Penrith and Melbourne. It was in 2018 and the Panthers won 22- 16 at AAMI Park. Penrith have a good recent record under Sutton – in fact, they’ve won their last six games with him in charge. Melbourne also have a good record under Sutton – they’ve won seven of their last eight games under his officiating. Regular season numbers Penrith scored 537 points in the regular season, with the Storm just three points behind with 534. Penrith’s defence conceded just 238 points, the best in the competition, while the Storm conceded 258. Penrith finished with 18 wins, one draw and one loss. The Storm finished with 16 wins and four losses.
Penrith has faced some lean times against Melbourne over the years.
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MARK GEYER
KAREN MCKEOWN
LUKE PRIDDIS
Panthers 1991 Premiership Winner
Mayor of Penrith
2003 Clive Churchill Medal winner
TIP: Panthers by 4
TIP: Panthers by 4
TIP: Panthers by 8
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Api Koroisau
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Api Koroisau
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Viliame Kikau
TROY DODDS
KATHRYN GARTON
GLADYS BEREJIKLIAN
Western Weekender Editor
Western Weekender Owner
NSW Premier
TIP: Panthers by 1
TIP: Panthers by 8
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Dylan Edwards
TIP: Panthers by 4 Clive Churchill Medal winner: Isaah Yeo
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IAN GARTON
JOHN TODD
Western Weekender Rugby League Writer
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Clive Churchill Medal winner: Viliame Kikau
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Api Koroisau
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
fearless predictions
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Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
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Panthers 1991 Premiership Winner
Western Weekender Celebrity Tipsters Winner
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Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Api Koroisau
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
MELISSA MCINTOSH
BEN FORDHAM
GAI HAWTHORN
WAYNE WILLMINGTON
Radio 2GB Breakfast Host
Penrith CBD Corporation CEO
Vintage FM Owner
TIP: Panthers by 40
TIP: Panthers by 1
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Josh Mansour
Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
TIP: Panthers by 8 Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary
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I
n a week of no second chances it helps to have a back-up plan. History is waiting for you, and you’ll probably run past it when you take the field. It’s right there, sitting on top of the plinth in the form of the premiership trophy. Norm and Arthur, frozen in time, enemies for 80 minutes and great mates for life. Craig Bellamy knows a thing or two about Grand Finals and what it takes to win one. He also knows that, no matter how many experienced players you have in your team, the last game of the year is usually the hardest one to win. Of the last three Grand Finals the Storm has played in they’ve lost two of them. Experience means nothing. If it did, the Sharks couldn’t have beaten the Storm in 2016. They got them by starting fast and confident, making Melbourne use up plenty of gas in the first half and then scrambling like hell on their own goal-line on the few occasions the Storm had chances inside the red zone. And when you’ve won 17 games in a row, as the Panthers have, how could you not be confident? They were far from perfect against the Rabbitohs in the Preliminary Final, but
Tim Sheens won a Premiership with the Tigers in 2005. Photo: NRL Images. having the best defence in the competition allows you to take a chance with the ball, knowing that you have the speed and mobility to cover for the sort of mistake that costs points for most other teams. At their run-and-gun best, the Panthers remind you of the surprise packet Tigers of
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•
2005. A constant threat from dummy-half, the brilliance of the halves and a fullback always pushing up through the middle to make sure the half chances become full points. If it all comes together they won’t need a Plan B, they’re good enough to do their
own lap, making their way through the streamers and confetti the way the Tigers did 15 years ago. That old Panther himself, Tim Sheens, was the tactical mastermind of the first and only Premiership for the joint-venture between Wests and Balmain. Sheens had led the fabulous Green Machine of the Canberra Raiders to three Premierships in a six-year span from 1989 to 1994, and made it a ritual to light up one of Havana’s best in the dressing room following those heady victories. When Benji and Robbie sent the Tigers fans wild in 2005, it had been 11 years since Sheens had reached for a stogie. He’d carried one in his kit bag for all that time, waiting for the chance to light up a Cuban and smile proudly at the scene in front of him. It turns out that football kit bags don’t make great humidors, and that old cheroot crumbled like a biscuit in a blender when the coach attempted to follow his own tradition. Quicker than a Marshall flick pass, he reached once more into his bag to find a second and much fresher cigar that he’d brought along, just in case. Nobody in the dressing room that night was even mildly surprised the freshlyminted four-time Premiership winner had the foresight to cover all contingencies. Now that’s a back-up plan!
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panther rumblings
WITH THE MASKED PANTHER
MEDAL NIGHT SHAMBLES !
The Panthers were fuming over the way the Dally M Medal unfolded on Monday night, particularly surrounding the leaking of the winner accidentally by The Daily Telegraph hours before the official announcement. Nathan Cleary was asked to attend the virtual ceremony at Fox Sports’ Artarmon studios, and happily obliged despite it being Grand Final week. It wasn’t about the travel to the studios as much as it was the extra disruption given current COVID-19 protocols, which saw both Nathan and coach Ivan Cleary forced to be tested for the virus before they could attend. For the winner to then be revealed by a newspaper before the ceremony even started was an embarrassment and raised questions about the way organisers handled Cleary’s involvement. It’s my understanding that a Penrith official texted Ivan Cleary to alert him of the leak – but he chose not to tell Nathan.
James Tedesco, Clint Gutherson, Jack Wighton and Nathan Cleary watch the Dally M count on Monday.
!
The publishing of the Dally M story early on the Telegraph’s website is unfortunate but it’s only part of the problem. ‘NRL 360’ went to air live on Monday night at 6.30pm with Phil Rothfield and Paul Kent on the panel discussing the Dally M Awards and potential winners, yet it seems both already knew the winner. That destroys much of the flagship rugby league show’s credibility.
!
Spotted: Josh Mansour and Kurt Capewell patiently waiting outside ANZ Stadium for the bus carrying the rest of the Penrith squad to arrive last Saturday. Thanks for the wave, Sauce!
!
!
The Panthers very quickly released a Grand Final t-shirt soon after full-time last weekend, and fans rushed to buy it, with online stock sold out within 24 hours. Let’s hope there’s still one more shirt to add to the cupboard this year!
Spotted: Dean Whare hasn’t been able to force his way back into the starting 17 for some time now but he’s still in the NRL bubble and following all the right protocols. He was out and about getting some sushi last Saturday – stringently following the biosecurity guidelines.
!
!
!
Ivan Cleary’s had a busy season in charge of the Panthers but he’s also expanding his business interests elsewhere. Together with wife Bec, he is opening a franchise of Pinot & Picasso in Newport. Hopefully one of the first things painted by customers is a giant Panther!
Spotted: One of the girls in Nathan Cleary’s infamous TikTok video cheering Penrith to victory at ANZ Stadium last Saturday night. Spotted: Former Panthers forward Sam McKendry buying a Penrith jersey in Rebel Sport at Westfield last weekend.
!
Panthers Leagues Club has been restricting access to members only this week and that will continue on Grand
Final Day. The club is expected to be at capacity for the game, especially given COVID-19 restrictions are still in place.
!
Panthers Stadium will be used as a live site for Sunday’s Grand Final, with thousands expected to head to the stands and field to watch the game unfold on the big screens. Food outlets and bars will be open and there will be amusement rides.
!
Penrith players are planning a mid-afternoon basketball game at the Panthers Academy on Sunday to calm the nerves ahead of the Grand Final. It’s an unconventional lead-in to such a big game but this type of relaxed attitude has worked all season and coach Ivan Cleary isn’t about to put the brakes on it now.
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This Grand Final is one for the true believers who never gave up T
troy dodds T
here’s been plenty of people jumping on the Penrith bandwagon these past few months – and they’re more than welcome. Successful seasons are often where you secure loyal supporters of the future who will ride the rugby league roller coaster for years and decades to come. But this Grand Final is one for the true fans. It’s for the fans who have sat through 17 seasons largely filled with frustration and unfulfilled potential. It’s for the fans who were there for the 2007 wooden spoon. For the fans who still turned up during those lean 2011, 2012 and 2013 seasons – years where it was hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. For the fans who put their faith in Phil Gould, and then Dave O’Neill and Brian Fletcher, even when the wider rugby league world was digging the knife in. This is for the fans who can tell you who Scott Sattler tackled in ‘03 and who passed the ball to Roycie for his second try in ‘91. It’s for the fans who know what I mean when I say you hold your breath walking between the stadium and the leagues club, especially when at the Mulgoa Road lights. Sure, the Grand Final will be special for anyone who wears Penrith colours this week, whether you’ve been turning up since way back in 1967 or you’re a recent convert.
Penrith fans will be out in force at ANZ Stadium this weekend. Photo: NRL Images. But it is even more special for those who’ve sat through countless cold winters, quietly hoping for an unlikely win but knowing the opposition has your measure. These are the fans who, despite the ups and downs that come with being a Penrith
supporter, still hand over their hardearned cash for a season ticket every year, still buy jerseys and flags, and still feel a sense of pride and anticipation when those first few seconds of ‘Hells Bells’ play over the Panthers Stadium loudspeaker. For fans new and old, this Sunday’s
Grand Final will provide a whole bunch of new memories. Win and there will be moments of the match that you will remember forever. Lose and the heartache never really goes away. Either way, you can be proud of this footy team. What a ride.
Seventeen years too long, it’s time to bring it home. This is our year, go Panthers!
Prue Car MP – Member for Londonderry 9833 1122
londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au
PO Box 43, St Marys NSW 1790 Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.
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the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
Battles on and off the field that will decide the Grand Final
lang on league
with Peter Lang
T
he Grand Final showdown between the two best sides in the 2020 NRL competition throws up some very interesting match- ups. None more so than the battle of the two number nines and two very different coaches with the same goal in mind. One player is hands down the buy of the year while the other is perhaps the buy of the century. On the field the clash of the hookers will go a long way in deciding the final outcome of the result. The number nine handles the ball more than any other player on the field and this is where it gets interesting. In 2020 the stats for these two players only tell part of the story. In the important statistic of ‘All Receipts’, which simply means when an attacking player successfully catches or picks up the ball, Api Koroisau finished second overall with 2,399 touches while Cameron Smith came in fourth with 2,086. While Koroisau builds his game around continual darting runs from dummy half, catching markers off-side and using lightning quick play- the- balls to break down the defensive line of the opposition forwards, his counterpart, 37- year- old Smith, is fast between the ears, he can control the tempo of the game, lead his team around the paddock like a second halfback and isn’t too bad a referee either!
Melbourne Storm captain Cameron Smith. Photo: NRL Images. Off the field and in the coaching box one coach has won two (legal) premierships and his teams have appeared in eight Grand Finals. The other is yet to win a premiership and is going to the Big Dance for only the second time in his coaching career. Storm coach Craig Bellamy is deeply respected and generally regarded as perhaps the best rugby league coach ever. He turns good players into superstars and
he has built an incredibly strong culture in Melbourne. He rants and raves during a game and sometimes you can actually see the spit hit the glass in the coach’s box. The other, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary is mild mannered and measured. Cleary specialises in coming to a club which has been devoid of success for years, rebuilding it and creating a team capable of winning a competition.
Api Koroisau. Photo: NRL Images. He almost did it with the Warriors in 2011. This time however he has a secret weapon. It’s his son, the number one halfback in the competition. He also has a group of players hungry for success and as fearless as they come. Two great diametrically opposed hookers and coaches, so who do you pick as there can only be one winner? My money is on the Panthers... all the way!
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Good Luck to the Penrith Panthers!
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P: 02 4725 3400 www.jkw.com.au
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stuart ayres P
enrith are you ready? Here we are in Grand Final Week and the arena’s bright lights are calling all of us to walk down that dark tunnel and step out into the light. We have been on this journey together and what a journey it has been. How many times have we been written off? Told we weren’t good enough? Too young, not experienced enough, can’t keep winning... you know the drill, we have heard it all before. This time it’s different, you can feel it, can’t you? This year we have been tested like no year we can remember, the things we love and cherish have often been taken away from us and we have had to find our own way to make things work. Through it all the Panthers have been there, showing us the way forward. Life is like football, where only the committed ever succeed. There can be no shortcuts only hard work and dedication. This builds the resilience you need to handle the most challenging moments and in our part of the world the reward is loyalty. This is the essence of the special bond between Penrith and the Panthers and haven’t we needed it in 2020. Penrith and rugby league just go together. Penrith and the Panthers belong together. The way this team has played and
w
State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres is hoping the Panthers lift the trophy on Sunday night. Photo: NRL Images. inspired us has put a smile on our face and a spring in our step. That warm feeling you get inside when watching this team is belief. Belief that here in Penrith we have the capacity to achieve anything if we are prepared to work hard and believe
f
in ourselves. The belief can been seen on display all over our town in jerseys, flags, streamers, painted walls, you name it! This is a story of how a football team helped a community overcome the challenges of a year like no other and how a
t
community helped a football team believe they are capable of greatness. The lights are calling us and this is our time to shine. Only one question remains. Panthers are you ready? The answer... yes, we are ready ready!
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In a year of challenges, the Penrith Panthers have inspired us all
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DISTRIBUTORS
GO THE MIGHTY PANTHERS A massive congratulations to the Penrith Panthers on an incredible 2020 Season. Team ABCOE would like to wish the Panthers the best of luck in the Grand Final. Lets finish this year with a final, victorious Team song.
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GRAND FINAL DECORATIONS
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clinton maynard I
n 2018 I tipped Penrith to win the Premiership and in 2019 I again predicted the Panthers would win the competition. I did so because I’m such a fan of James Maloney, he’s a winner and wherever he goes he takes teams to the top. Of course both years the Panthers couldn’t make the decider. I didn’t tip the Panthers this year, maybe that’s a good thing. Despite 17 straight victories and the Minor Premiership, the Panthers go into this game against Melbourne as underdogs and that’s understandable. There’s an old adage in rugby league, you have to lose one to win one. They are coming up against the most consistent club of the past 20 years, if the Storm don’t make the Grand Final, they at least finish in the top four, every year. It’s down to the most consistent player in the game Cameron Smith and of course you can see the fairytale now, the greatest player to grace the field leaves the game with a final Premiership. It all adds up to a Storm win. The Panthers haven’t been there before, they are young and inexperienced. Look at what happened to the club in 1990, they couldn’t handle the excitement of Grand Final Week, crumbled against the Raiders and had to come back the next year and do it properly.
A young and enthusiastic team of local juniors up against the experienced might of the Storm, maybe they should call it off now. However there is so much in Penrith’s favour. Plenty of clubs in recent years have broken the rule that you need to lose a Grand Final first. Souths in 2014, North Queensland in 2015 and Cronulla in 2016 were all teams effectively making their first appearance in a decider. The Panthers play with extraordinary youthful enthusiasm, they just have so much speed and I don’t just mean on the wing, in general play, everything is up tempo. That’s not unusual for a team of kids and can bring a side undone in end of season games. However they also play with a level of calmness and much of that is down to their general Nathan Cleary. While Cleary is young, he is also now quite an experienced halfback and like his Dad he doesn’t get flustered. The big stage isn’t going to worry him, he’s been there before with Origin. His level head can set the tone for the team. Johnathan Thurston has gone as far as to declare him a future Immortal, high praise indeed. They will also play in front of a crowd that is 90 per cent in support. While it will be capped at a COVID- safe 40,000, the players will feed off the pro-Penrith noise. Lastly and the most important reason
The Panthers are playing with youth and enthusiasm. Photo: NRL Images. Penrith can win, spirit. They are made up of local juniors and kids who’ve joined from the bush, playing for the Panthers means something, can the same always be
said for other clubs? Penrith can win this Grand Final, but in your interests I’ll make you a promise, I won’t tip them. Enjoy your Sunday.
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These young Panthers just might cause a Grand Final boilover
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Penrith City Council and the whole Penrith community will be cheering on the Panthers this Sunday in the NRL Grand Final.
GOOD LUCK BOYS!
year
winner
score
runner up
1908
Souths
14
Easts
1909
Souths
1910
Newtown
4
Souths
1911
Easts
11
Glebe
1912
Easts
1913
score attendance
minor premiers
wooden spoon
year
winner
score
runner up
minor premiers
wooden spoon
4000
Souths
Cumberland
1965
St George
12
Souths
8
78,056
St George
Easts
Forfeit
Souths
Wests
1966
St George
23
Balmain
4
61,129
St George
Easts
4
14,000
Newtown
Wests
1967
Souths
12
Canterbury
10
56,368
St George
Cronulla
8
20,000
Glebe
Balmain
1968
Souths
13
Manly
9
54,255
Souths
Newtown
Glebe
No Final
Easts
Wests
1969
Balmain
11
Souths
2
58,825
Souths
Cronulla
Easts
Newtown
No Final
Easts
Wests
1970
Souths
23
Manly
12
53,241
Souths
Parramatta
1914
Souths
Newtown
No Final
Souths
Annandale
1971
Souths
16
St George
10
62,828
Manly
Wests
1915
Balmain
Souths
No Final
Balmain
Norths
1972
Manly
19
Easts
14
54,357
Manly
Parramatta
1916
Balmain
7,000
Balmain
Wests
1973
Manly
10
Cronulla
7
52,044
Manly
Penrith
1917
Balmain
Souths
No Final
Balmain
Norths
1974
Easts
19
Canterbury
4
57,214
Easts
Balmain
1918
Souths
Wests
No Final
Souths
Annandale
1975
Easts
38
St George
0
63,047
Easts
Souths
1919
Balmain
Easts
No Final
Balmain
Norths
1976
Manly
13
Parramatta
10
57,343
Manly
Newtown
1920
Balmain
Souths
No Final
Balmain
Annandale
1977
St George
9
Parramatta
9
65,959
Parramatta
Newtown
1921
Norths
Glebe
No Final
Norths
University
1977+
St George
22
Parramatta
0
48,828 Wests
Newtown
12
Balmain
5
Souths
3
score attendance
1922
Norths
35
Glebe
3
15,000
Norths
St George
1978
Manly
11
Cronulla
11
51,510
1923
Easts
15
Souths
12
12,180
Easts
University
1978+
Manly
16
Cronulla
0
33,552
1924
Balmain
3
Souths
0
15,000
Balmain
Newtown
1979
St George
17
Canterbury
13
50,991
St George
Norths
1925
Souths
No Final
Souths
Newtown
1980
Canterbury
18
Easts
4
52,881
Easts
Penrith
1926
Souths
11
University
5
21,000
Souths
St George
1981
Parramatta
20
Newtown
11
57,333
Easts
Balmain
1927
Souths
20
St George
11
12,000
Souths
University
1982
Parramatta
21
Manly
8
52,186
Parramatta
Canberra
1928
Souths
26
Easts
5
24,966
St George
Newtown
1983
Parramatta
18
Manly
6
40,285
Manly
Wests
1929
Souths
30
Newtown
10
16,360
Souths
University
1984
Canterbury
6
Parramatta
4
47,076
Canterbury
Wests
1930
Wests
27
St George
2
12,178
Wests
University
1985
Canterbury
7
St George
6
44,569
St George
Illawarra
1931
Souths
12
Easts
7
27,104
Easts
University
1986
Parramatta
4
Canterbury
2
45,843
Parramatta
Illawarra
1932
Souths
19
Wests
12
16,925
Souths
Norths
1987
Manly
18
Canberra
8
50,201
Manly
Wests
1933
Newtown
18
St George
5
18,080
Newtown
Wests
1988
Canterbury
24
Balmain
12
40,000
Cronulla
Wests
1934
Wests
15
Easts
12
25,174
Easts
University
1989
Canberra
19
Balmain
14
40,500
Souths
Illawarra
1935
Easts
19
Souths
3
22,106
Easts
University
1990
Canberra
18
Penrith
14
41,535
Canberra
Souths
1936
Easts
32
Balmain
12
14,395
Easts
University
1991
Penrith
19
Canberra
12
41,815
Penrith
Gold Coast
1937
Easts
n/a
Souths / St George
n/a
No Final
Easts
University
1992
Brisbane
28
St George
8
41,560
Brisbane
Gold Coast
1938
Canterbury
19
Easts
6
20,287
Canterbury
St George
1993
Brisbane
14
St George
6
42,329
Canterbury
Gold Coast
Wests
1939
Balmain
33
Souths
4
26,972
Balmain
Newtown
1994
Canberra
36
Canterbury
12
42,234
Canterbury
Balmain
1940
Easts
24
Canterbury
14
24,167
Easts
Wests
1995
Bulldogs
17
Manly
4
41,127
Manly
North Queensland
1941
St George
31
Easts
14
39,957
Easts
Norths
1996
Manly
20
St George
8
40,985
Manly
South Queensland
1942
Canterbury
11
St George
9
26,171
Canterbury
Wests
1997
Newcastle
22
Manly
16
42,482
Manly
South Queensland
1943
Newtown
34
Norths
7
60,992
Newtown
Canterbury
1997*
Brisbane
26
Cronulla
8
58,912
Brisbane
North Queensland
1944
Balmain
12
Newtown
8
24,186
Newtown
Canterbury
1998
Brisbane
38
Canterbury
12
40,857
Brisbane
Wests
1945
Easts
22
Balmain
18
44,585
Easts
Souths
1999
Melbourne
20
St George Illawarra
18
107,999
Cronulla
Wests
1946
Balmain
13
St George
12
32,296
St George
Souths
2000
Brisbane
14
Sydney Roosters
6
94,277
Brisbane
North Queensland
1947
Balmain
13
Canterbury
9
29,292
Canterbury
Parramatta
2001
Newcastle
30
Parramatta
24
90,414
Parramatta
Penrith
1948
Wests
8
Balmain
5
29,122
Wests
Norths
2002
Sydney Roosters
30
Warriors
8
80,130
Warriors
Canterbury
1949
St George
19
Souths
12
56,534
Souths
Easts
2003
Penrith
18
Sydney Roosters
6
81,166
Penrith
Souths
1950
Souths
21
Wests
15
32,373
Souths
Norths
2004
Canterbury
16
Sydney Roosters
13
82,127
Sydney Roosters
Souths
1951
Souths
42
Manly
14
28,505
Souths
Norths
2005
Wests Tigers
30
North Queensland
16
82,453
Parramatta
Newcastle
1952
Wests
22
Souths
12
41,060
Wests
Parramatta
2006
Brisbane
15
Melbourne
8
79,609
Melbourne#
Souths
1953
Souths
31
St George
12
44,581
Souths
Wests
2007
Melbourne#
34
Manly
8
81,392
Melbourne#
Penrith
1954
Souths
23
Newtown
15
45,759
Newtown
Parramatta
2008
Manly
40
Melbourne
0
80,388
Melbourne#
Canterbury
2009
Melbourne#
1955
Souths
12
Newtown
11
42,466
Newtown
Wests
23
Parramatta
16
82,538
St George Illawarra
Roosters
1956
St George
18
Balmain
12
61,987
St George
Parramatta
2010 St George Illawarra
32
Sydney Roosters
8
82,334
St George Illawarra
Melbourne
1957
St George
31
Manly
9
54,399
St George
Parramatta
2011
Manly
24
Warriors
10
81,988
Melbourne
Gold Coast
1958
St George
20
Wests
9
62,283
St George
Parramatta
2012
Melbourne
14
Canterbury
4
82,976
Canterbury
Parramatta
1959
St George
20
Manly
0
49,457
St George
Parramatta
2013
Sydney Roosters
26
Manly
18
81,491
Sydney Roosters
Parramatta
1960
St George
31
Easts
6
53,156
St George
Parramatta
2014
Souths
30
Canterbury
6
83,833
Sydney Roosters
Sharks
1961
St George
22
Wests
0
61,196
Wests
Parramatta
2015
North Queensland
17
Brisbane
16
82,758
Sydney Roosters
Newcastle
1962
St George
9
Wests
6
44,184
St George
Souths
2016
Cronulla
14
Melbourne
12
83,625
Melbourne
Newcastle
1963
St George
8
Wests
3
69,860
St George
Easts
2017
Melbourne
34
North Queensland
6
79,722
Melbourne
Newcastle
1964
St George
11
Balmain
6
61,369
St George
Canterbury
2018
Sydney Roosters
21
Melbourne
6
82,688
Sydney Roosters
Parramatta
1965
St George
12
Souths
8
78,056
St George
Easts
2019
Sydney Roosters
14
Canberra
8
82,922
Melbourne
Gold Coast
*Super League Grand Final #Melbourne Storm were stripped of 2007, 2009 premierships, 2006, 2007 and 2008 minor premierships, due salary cap breaches.
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
premiership honour roll
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TEST YOUR FOOTY KNOWLEDGE WITH NATHAN TAYLOR’S NRL BRAIN BENDERS stripped for salary cap breaches? 12. Who won the Clive Churchill Medal in 1991? 13. Which Grand Final saw a record 107,999 spectators attend? 14. In which year did rocker Billy Idol yell “I love my footy”? 15. When was the last time Parramatta won a Premiership? 16. Which clubs contested the lone Super League Grand Final in 1997? 17. How many Grand Finals did St George win in a row? 18. Who slotted the field goal to win North Queensland’s first Premiership? 19. Before the Sydney Roosters, who was the last club to win back to back Grand Finals? 20. Manly beat which team 40- 0 in the 2008 Grand Final? 21. Not including this Sunday’s game,
how many Grand Finals has Ivan Cleary coached in? 22. Who won the Clive Churchill Medal in 2003? 23. One Grand Final has been held outside of Sydney, where and when was it held? 24. Which player did Benji Marshal flick pass to in the 2005 Grand Final? 25. Which current coach has won the most Premierships? 26. How many Grand Finals has Brad Fittler played in? 27. In which year was pop star Ricky Martin the Grand Final pre- match entertainment? 28. Did Mal Meninga win a Grand Final in his final game for Canberra? 29. Who scored the last try in the 2015 Grand Final? 30. How many Grand Finals has Panthers hooker Api Koroisau won?
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1. Not including this weekend’s decider, how many Grand Finals has Penrith appeared in? 2. Who won the very first Premiership in 1908? 3. Which two teams contested the last Grand Final played at the Sydney Football Stadium? 4. In which year was the Grand Final first officiated by two referees? 5. Who has won the most Premierships? 6. Which current NRL club has never played in a Grand Final? 7. Which American female pop star performed at the 2003 Grand Final? 8. Before the Sydney Football Stadium, where was the Grand Final played at? 9. In which years did Canberra win back to back Premierships? 10. Bill Harrigan refereed seven consecutive Grand Finals, which was his last? 11. Which club had two Premierships
Answers 1. Three. 2. South Sydney. 3. Brisbane and Canterbury (1998). 4. 2009. 5. South Sydney (21). 6. Gold Coast Titans. 7. Kelly Clarkson. 8. Sydney Cricket Ground. 9. 1989 and 1990. 10. Panthers v Roosters, 2003. 11. Melbourne Storm. 12. Bradley Clyde. 13. Melbourne v St George Illawarra, 1999. 14. 2002. 15. 1986. 16. Brisbane and Cronulla. 17. 11. 18. Johnathan Thurston. 19. Brisbane (1992, 1993). 20. Melbourne. 21. One (2011, New Zealand Warriors). 22. Luke Priddis. 23. Brisbane, 1997. 24. Pat Richards. 25. Wayne Bennet (seven). 26. Six. 27. 2013. 28. Yes (1994 v Canterbury). 29. Kyle Feldt. 30. One (2014).
Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
nathan’s grand final footy quiz
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the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
1991 GRAND FINAL REMEMBERED
HISTORY MADE WITH FIRST TITLE T
he front page of the Weekender on Friday, September 20 1991 said it all – ‘bound for glory’. Inside, another headline read ‘Panthers to win’. It was a Grand Final Penrith was always destined to claim. After going down to the Raiders in 1990, Penrith walked onto the Sydney Football Stadium pitch a much more mature looking team than the one that tasted heartbreak on the very same turf 12 months earlier. So many things went against Penrith in the big one – Mark Geyer was sent to the sin bin, the Raiders scored a try off a controversial refereeing decision, and Mal Meninga was having a stellar game. At half- time, with his side down 12- 6, Penrith coach Phil Gould delivered an almighty spray to his players. Rumour has it the speech finished with the words: “Are you going to be losers?” The second half was terrific from Penrith, but with 10 minutes to go, the scores were locked at 12-all and it was anyone’s game. Then, the man they call Brandy stepped in. Greg Alexander potted a 38 metre field goal that would give Penrith a 13- 12 lead and the advantage heading into the final stages of the game.
Back in the dressing room, the Panthers celebrate the 1991 Grand Final victory. The Panthers built pressure and the rest is history – the forced line drop- out, the short restart, the Geyer run, the Simmons try – magic. Alexander confirmed victory with a sideline conversion that gave the Panthers an unassailable 19-12 lead. “They worked really hard for that – right from the Grand Final day the previous year,” Gould told the Weekender years later.
“It was a wonderful day for the club, it was a wonderful day for the city and it really put Penrith on the map.” Back at Panthers Leagues Club, the party was epic. A huge blow- up Panther had guarded the club for much of the week, welcoming fans on Grand Final day who watched the match on 55 screens throughout the club. A Grand Final Disco was held at Reactor One.
One of the big talking points out of the Grand Final was the awarding of the Clive Churchill Medal to Canberra’s Bradley Clyde. Royce Simmons would tell the Weekender years later who he believed should have been handed the prestigious prize. “Greg Alexander was the player of the match. His kicking game was outstanding and his leadership was fantastic,” Simmons said.
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
2003 GRAND FINAL REMEMBERED
A GRAND NIGHT IN PENRITH HISTORY P
enrith’s 18- 6 Grand Final triumph over the Sydney Roosters on October 5, 2003 was one of the most magical days in club history. Despite finishing the regular season as Minor Premiers, Penrith still went into the decider against the Roosters as underdogs, much like they do against the Storm this weekend. It was no surprise, perhaps, given this Penrith side had finished last just two years earlier, and didn’t make the Finals in 2002. Many simply didn’t believe the Panthers had what it took. But in front of a crowd of 81,166 at a very wet Telstra Stadium, the ‘men in black’ were simply superb and produced memories that will last a lifetime. The game – which is regarded by many as one of the greatest rugby league Grand Finals in history – produced highlight after highlight, with Scott Sattler’s remarkable try-saving cover tackle on Roosters winger Todd Byrne still talked about to this day. Penrith winger Luke Rooney won the hearts of many on the back of his twotry performance, while eventual Clive Churchill Medallist Luke Priddis not only set up two tries that evening but bagged one himself in an heroic effort. Fan favourite Ryan Girdler, who limped
Luke Priddis with the premiership trophy in 2003. off injured in the second half, summed up the enormity of the occasion on behalf of all Panthers players and supporters. “We’ve been here through the bad times, and that’s what makes it so special,” he said.
Interviewed by Channel Nine’s Andrew Voss as the siren sounded in the background, coach John Lang declared: “I just hope I don’t wake up tomorrow and it’s still Sunday”. Penrith partied for days following
the club’s second Grand Final win, and thousands turned out on November 28 to celebrate one last time with a victory parade through the city’s streets. Most recently, the team got together for a reunion in 2016.
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FAMILY CONNECTION TO RISE AGAIN TROY DODDS
I
f anyone knows about the family connection driving the Panthers this year, it’s John and Martin Lang. The father and son combined to help deliver Penrith the Premiership in 2003 and now, 17 years later, Ivan and Nathan Cleary are hoping history repeats itself. But Lang Senior, now retired after a coaching career that spanned close to 400 games, says it was only once the dust had settled on the 2003 decider that he realised the special family moment that had unfolded. “Looking back on it, it was really special, but I didn’t really think about it at the time,” he said. “Premierships are hard to win so you’re focused on trying to win the game and it probably took me years to properly appreciate it, and realise what a thing it was for our family.” Martin tells a similar story when reflecting on that October night in 2003. “As much as it sounds like a nice fairytale, I was literally just focused on what I had to do next and what my next hit-up looked like,” he said. “I was totally focused on what I had to do, that wasn’t just in the Grand Final but in every game. I didn’t go out there thinking I wanted to do this for Dad, I wanted to do it for the team. “But it was very special especially given we’d been at it for a few years at Cronulla. We’d gone close in 1999 and 2001. The first year we were at Penrith we had an ordinary year but in 2003 we had a good
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
2003 GRAND FINAL REMEMBERED
John and Martin Lang celebrate Penrith’s Grand Final success in 2003. mix of experience and youth. We all played for each other.” Both Langs will be supporting the Panthers on Sunday. “Both Dad and I have a soft spot for Penrith,” Martin said. “Winning the competition in 2003 is my fondest footballing memory. You can talk about representative games and Origin but winning the Premiership is an unreal feeling because they are so hard to win.” Martin believes Penrith can beat
Melbourne to cap off an incredible recordbreaking season. “Personally I think this side is superior to 2003 – it will be the best Penrith side I’ve seen if they can win the Grand Final,” he said. “If they were going to panic on the big stage we would have seen it when they were behind against the Roosters and Rabbitohs.” He’s also backing the father-son combination to come up trumps for Penrith.
Ivan and Nathan Cleary are hoping to win a Premiership together on Sunday. Photo: NRL Images.
“I don’t know Ivan or Nathan personally but Ivan has been a successful coach for many years. Success isn’t always defined by premierships,” he said. “And Nathan is the NSW halfback. They clearly have a close personal relationship – it was a no brainer [to bring them together], it was a great move from Penrith and it’s been a huge success.” John also believes the family connection can do it again for the Panthers, and while he admits it’s not always smooth sailing to coach your son, he silences any critics of the set-up with one line that is hard to argue against: “I’d rather be coaching him than coaching against him”. The opportunity to win a premiership with his son is not lost on Ivan Cleary. It was, after all, one of the driving forces behind his return to the club that sacked him five years ago. The pair celebrated Penrith’s Preliminary Final win on the field at ANZ Stadium last Saturday night and hope to do it again on Sunday. “I guess it’s a dream come true to win a premiership for anyone, but to do it with Nathan would be something else,” he said. “To be able to get that opportunity, I’m incredibly grateful.” John Lang also knows all about coaching a team like the one Ivan Cleary is in charge of on Sunday – after all, it bares incredible similarities to the one he coached 17 years ago. “They’re playing with tremendous enthusiasm,” he said. “There’s some great young players who are playing with the confidence of youth. It’s not complicated when you’re young, sometimes as you go on in your career you can make the game more complicated.” While Lang moved on from Penrith a few years after the Premiership, he still has fond memories of his time at the foot of the Mountains. “I’m excited for Penrith – I’m really happy for them,” he said.
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
snips and snaps
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PANTHER PRIDE
PASSION ON DISPLAY
LEAGUES CLUB GETS INTO SPIRIT OF DECIDER Panthers Leagues Club is celebrating Penrith’s incredible season by releasing a limited footythemed menu. Panthers’ burger restaurant, The Grub, has a Finals Feast menu including ‘The Sauce Wings’, ‘The Koroisau Combo’, ‘The Cleary Combo’ and the ‘Kikau Combo’. The Black Panther Burger has also been released, and is absolutely delicious. It’s available from Kelly’s Brasserie. You can also try some delicious cocktails, including the ‘Lychee Luai’, ‘Don’t Worry Be Api’, ‘Magic Martin’, ‘Long Island Iced To’o’ and the ‘Mansour Mojito’.
Panthers colours are everywhere in Penrith this week, and plenty of businesses are getting into the Grand Final spirit too. We spotted the entire Property Central staff in their Panthers gear on Tuesday, getting behind the team ahead of the Grand Final. The real estate agency also has a Panthers display in their shopfront. But it’s not just businesses getting a makeover, we’ve even spotted a couple of cars with a new look this week, including this Hyundai, which was given a Panthers refresh by Elisha Batty.
FOUR GENERATIONS OF SUPPORT
GUS BACKS YOUNG PANTHERS Former Panthers General Manager Phil Gould believes Penrith’s tight win over Souths in last week’s Preliminary Final will steel them for Sunday’s Grand Final. “I think they’ve had the perfect preparation,” Gould told ‘100% Footy’. “I just feel as though they have all aspects of the game. It doesn’t matter what type of game it is, I think they’re equipped for it.” Gould left the Panthers last year but played a significant role in the club’s development into a Premiership force this season. He does not believe the young Panthers will get stage fright on Sunday.
“There’s no game that they can’t play,” Gould said. “This is what they’re born to do, this is what they’re trained to do and they’re there doing their thing at the moment. “They would enjoy the fact that most people think the Storm will win. I think that also plays
ZANE CHASES ANOTHER RING A third Premiership ring would mean the world to Panthers forward Zane Tetevano. Tetevano has the ring given to him by Roosters coach Trent Robinson after last year’s Grand Final. Robinson left him out of the final 17 to play Canberra. He buried his 2018 Premiership ring with his grandfather. If Penrith win on Sunday night, Tetevano, who is in his first year with Penrith, plans to keep the ring he’ll be given after full-time.
GALLERY NEW PROJECT FOCUSES ON PANTHERS FANS
The Wilkinson family prepares to celebrate. Photo thanks to Veronica Wilkinson.
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For the Wilkinson family, Sunday’s Grand Final is a celebration of their 54-year support of the Panthers. “My 82- year- old father, Reg Menz, has lived in Penrith since the early 1950s. He and our entire family have been Panther fans since the day the ‘Chocolate Soldiers’ first ran on to the field,” said Veronica Wilkinson, who has decorated her house in Panthers colours this week.
“Growing up during the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, every Sunday home game we would put on our handknitted jumpers, scarves and beanies and pile into the car at 11am and head down to Penrith’s football ground to watch all three games of football. “We always sat on the grassy hill at the northern end of the field, my siblings and I had a huge crocheted blanket to sit on while my Dad, Mum and Nanna (who
lived with us) had their fold up picnic chairs. There was always a large cane basket full of snacks, cordial and a thermos of tea.” Four generations of the Wilkinson family will be cheering on the Panthers. “A lot has changed with the game and at Penrith’s home ground over the years, but one thing is certain, our family will always be dedicated Penrith Panthers fans,” Ms Wilkinson said.
into their hands a bit. The pressure is off them.” Gould is also convinced that Cameron Smith will retire after Sunday’s Grand Final. “He doesn’t want that pressure going into the game,” he said. “This is it. Cameron Smith is retiring after this.”
In a cultural project celebrating fandom, Penrith Regional Gallery has engaged celebrated photographer – and Panthers fan – Lyndal Irons to capture images and stories from in and around Penrith, of people wearing their Panther-filled hearts on their sleeves, their cars, their faces, their homes, their businesses, their streets, perhaps even their pets. The project team is interested in photographing fans and their treasures; learning the stories behind them; documenting the unfolding of work-in-progress as fans decorate, gather, plan, and prepare. For information, visit www. penrithregionalgallery.com.au/ outside-the-stadium-call-out.
OVERSEAS SUPPORT Plenty of Penrith fans are living overseas and will be staying up late or getting up early to watch Sunday’s Grand Final against Melbourne. One of them is teacher Jonathan Marquez, who is living in El Salvador. “Can’t wait till Sunday for the big one,” Jonathan told the Weekender. “I will stay up all night as the game here will be at 2.30am my time.” Jonathan has been out and about in El Salvador wearing his Panthers gear, ensuring that Panther Pride extends right across the world.
“He does everything right. He’s just got all the great attributes that a great halfback needs” FORMER SHARKS CAPTAIN PAUL GALLEN ON NATHAN CLEARY
the western weekender » Friday, October 23, 2020
Best of Luck to the
MIGHTY Panthers in the Grand Final this weekend!
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Friday, October 23, 2020 « the western weekender
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