Extra Time March 18 2022

Brought to you by

Photo: Megan Dunn.

PANTHERS BREATHE FIRE

SEAN AN V I L L U S O’ R E T S O P IN SIDE

CLEARY, GRIFFIN FACE OFF IN THE COACHES BOX AS PANTHERS AND DRAGONS DO BATTLE AT KOGARAH MATCH PREVIEW PAGE 39

MASKED PANTHER MORE STADIUM NEWS PLUS PENRITH RULES OUT A TYRONE MAY RETURN TO THE CLUB PAGE 40

KENNY’S MISSION

FACE IN THE CROWD

BACK-UP HOOKER WANTS API’S JERSEY NEXT SEASON, AND A GRAND FINAL WOULD BE NICE PAGE 43

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE IF OUR CAMERAS SPOTTED YOU AT BLUEBET STADIUM PAGE 47

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender

F

TY

WINS ARE BACK!

S ONU UR B ER! O Y GRABBY COOL STUB

XXXX GOLD 24 X 375ML BOTTLES

GREAT NORTHERN SUPER CRISP 24 X 330ML BOTTLES

EACH

TOOHEYS NEW 24 X 375ML BOTTLES

EACH

30

48.99

$

EACH

30

PACK

PACK

WIN

E IMAT NT T L U THE TAINME WEEK R ENTE GE EACH S AND A ION WON RIPT PACK E B BSC O SU CARDS TO Y A K S T F U I L G P ISA E $50 V

ASAHI SUPER DRY 24 X 330ML BOTTLES

VICTORIA BITTER 30 X 375ML CANS

EACH

EACH

GREAT NORTHERN ORIGINAL 30 X 375ML CANS

EACH

1 LITRE

52.99

$

39.99

$

EACH

EACH

EQUATES TO $37.09 PER 700ML

JIM BEAM WHITE LABEL BOURBON, BALLANTINE’S SCOTCH WHISKY OR CANADIAN CLUB WHISKY 700ML

CAPTAIN MORGAN SPICED GOLD, SMIRNOFF RED VODKA, BUNDABERG UP RUM, GORDON’S LONDON DRY GIN ORJOHNNIE WALKER RED LABEL SCOTCH 1 LITRE

SPEND $60 OR MORE, COLLECT YOUR BONUS STUBBY COOLER AND ENTER ONLINE AT BOTTLEMART.COM.AU TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY. SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

Please select

1 HOUR DELIVERY OR

1 HOUR DELIVERY OR PICK UP AVAILABLE SCAN ME

10 PACK VODKA CRUISER MIXED 10 X 275ML BOTTLES

34.99

$

EACH

10 PACK BUNDABERG OP RUM & COLA 6%, SMIRNOFF ICE BLACK DOUBLE 6.5% 10 X 375ML CANS

45.99

$

EACH

10 PACK WILD TURKEY 101 & COLA 6.5% 10 X 375ML CANS

54.99

$

EACH

SAVE $10

PICKUP

$

2 FOR

15 JACOB’S CREEK CLASSIC WINES 750ML

GREY GUMS HOTEL CNR MULGOA & BLAIKIE ROADS, SOUTH PENRITH. TEL 02 4733 4025

BOTTLEMART.COM.AU BOTTLEMART.COM.AU 38

CATALOGUE OUT NOW

ANY 2 FOR

$

30 SQEALING PIG WINES (EXCL. PINOT NOIR) 750ML

11.99

$

EACH

SECRET STONE WINES (EXCL. PINOT NOIR) 750ML

OVERLANDER HOTEL 180 RICHMOND ROAD, CAMBRIDGE GARDENS. TEL 02 4730 2955

19.99

$

EACH

OYSTER BAY PINOT NOIR, PIERRE DAMOUR ROSÉ OR PETER LEHMANN THE BOND WINES 750ML

PENRITH HOTEL 303 HIGH STREET, PENRITH. TEL 02 4721 2060

All specials available from Wednesday 16th March until Tuesday 29th March 2022 or while stocks last.

Price includes GST. Images are for illustrative purposes only. Specials available in NSW stores only.

Some products may not be available in all Express venues. Bottlemart supports the responsible service of alcohol. *Online delivery or pickup available at selected stores only.

NSW_P06_WK1_FP_WW

WW47622

DOWNLOAD THE APP OR GO TO BOTTLEMART.COM.AU

Liam Martin scores last week.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

the final word

v TROY DODDS

T

here’s a long way to go in this competition, but Penrith’s performance against Manly last Thursday night proved one important thing – there is no Premiership hangover present in Ivan Cleary’s squad.

Sure, everything from injuries to Origin will play a part in determining Penrith’s ability to go back-to-back, but any fears that the side would struggle to adapt to their new role as the hunted don’t appear, this early at least, to have come to fruition.

Penrith never allowed Manly into the contest. It was one of the best round one performances I can remember – certainly not reflecting a side that had a late start to pre-season and had been belted in a trial just a fortnight earlier.

This Friday Cleary’s side hit the road for the first time this season to take on a St

FRIDAY, MARCH 18 | 6.00PM | KOGARAH OVAL | REFEREE: CHRIS SUTTON George-Illawarra team buoyed by a first-up win over the Warriors last weekend.

I admit I like the Dragons this year – I don’t think they’ll be lifting any trophies come October but BBQ-gate last year will ultimately emerge as the line in the sand coach Anthony Griffin was looking for. The side looks much more settled and confident this year – and I was impressed with the way they fought back after falling behind at one stage of the game.

Depth was always going to be an issue for Penrith this year and the reality of that is starting to set in, with Nathan Cleary still sidelined and now Moses Leota facing an extended stint in recovery after picking up a shoulder problem.

Spencer Leniu comes into the starting side for Leota, while Matt Eisenhuth moves onto the interchange bench. While Eisenhuth

has plenty to offer, that bench is starting to look a little thin on the ground compared to the sides that used to run around in 2020 and 2021.

Still, there is much to like about Penrith and their chances in this game.

Isaah Yeo was brilliant in the middle for the Panthers last week, as he has been for many seasons now. While the rest of the NRL world is slowly waking to Yeo’s importance, he still doesn’t get the credit he deserves for the punch that Penrith offer as they power up the park.

All eyes will again be on Sean O’Sullivan, who must now deal with the wraps that came his way following last week’s win.

There is now an expectation on his shoulders that wasn’t there just a week ago, and how he handles that will be important to Penrith’s chances. It’ll be a mental game

PANTHERS

KAYO FOX LEAGUE ABC 702 TRIPLE M

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 18, 2022

match preview

Brought to you by

more than anything for him this week.

The Dragons have got plenty of points in them – the likes of Tyrell Sloan, Moses Suli and Mikaele Ravalawa will make sure of that – but you need a strong forward pack setting the groundwork before those points can flow. My big question mark still hanging over the Dragons is if the likes of Jack Bird and Aaron Woods can really stay up as the season progresses.

Penrith’s forward pack, even without Leota, remains ferocious and predictable in its ability to make the ground required to lay the platform for points.

I’m expecting a somewhat high scoring encounter on Friday night – and while I think the Dragons can give this one a real shake, Penrith’s class should get the job done in the end.

Tip: Panthers by 6.

DRAGONS

1 Dylan Edwards

10 James Fisher-Harris

1 Tyrell Sloan

2 Charlie Staines

11 Viliame Kikau

2 Cody Ramsey

10 Blake Lawrie 11 Jack Bird

3 Izack Tago

12 Liam Martin

3 Moses Suli

12 Jaydn Su’A

4 Stephen Crichton

13 Isaah Yeo (c)

4 Zac Lomax

13 Jack De Belin

5 Brian To’o

14 Mitch Kenny

5 Mikaele Ravalawa

14 Moses Mbye

6 Jarome Luai

15 Scott Sorensen

6 Talatau Amone

15 Josh Kerr

7 Sean O’Sullivan

16 Matthew Eisenhuth

7 Ben Hunt (c)

16 Jack Gosiewski

8 Spencer Leniu

17 Jaeman Salmon

8 Francis Molo

17 George Burgess

9 Apisai Koroisau

18 J’Maine Hopgood 19 Chris Smith

9 Andrew McCullough

18 Jackson Ford 19 Tariq Sims

39

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender • extra time

panther rumblings

Brought to you by

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

LEOTA FACING 10 WEEKS OUT ! Depth to be tested: Premiershipwinning Penrith forward Moses Leota is set to miss between eight and 10 weeks of football due to a shoulder injury. The 26-year-old suffered a fracture in his left shoulder while making a tackle late in the 28-6 win over Manly.

Moses Leota is hurt.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

! No return: Rumours have been floating around since the end of last year that Tyrone May’s axing from Penrith is temporary and that he’d be welcomed back to the club at some stage, potentially as early as next year. I’m told that’s simply not the case and despite enjoying the support of coach Ivan Cleary, there is no support from Penrith’s hierarchy to see May back in club colours. ! Stadium debate: There remains considerable concern by many long-time fans about the new stadium being developed to replace the existing BlueBet Stadium.

Some of Penrith’s most loyal supporters – veterans of the western grandstand – are concerned the new venue will follow the likes of CommBank Stadium and only have corporate and media facilities on the west, forcing fans elsewhere. Many fans remain bemused that some $300 million is being spent to boost corporate facilities and increase the capacity by 5000 people or so.

Others believe season ticket prices will skyrocket at the new venue in 2025. Overall, there is a feeling the stadium will lose its identity in a new form. At this stage, things are very quiet from the State Government – but expect to see some initial designs in the coming months.

ship favourites. Following their win against the Sea Eagles, Penrith tightened from $5.50 into $5.00 equal favourites with Melbourne to win it all. By the end of the weekend, the Panthers were $4.50 and the Storm out to $5.50. “Penrith got the job done without Nathan Cleary and clearly they are going to be a force again,’’ said Sportsbet’s Simon Legg.

! Spotted: James Fisher-Harris and his family enjoying a weekend breakfast at Percy Plunkett in Penrith. ! Buzz blocked: Telegraph journalist Phil Rothfield is unhappy that he’s been blocked by Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher (pictured right). It’s not really a surprise given some of the reporting on the Panthers in recent years – the club has been strong in trying to avoid in engaging with reporters it believes are unfair in their coverage. We’d suggest Buzz goes through the Panthers media department for comments, as many other scribes are required to do.

!

Back to his roots: Talking of Fletcher, the Panthers boss was back in the country on the weekend, visiting Coonamble for racing’s Country Championships. Born in the area, Fletcher is a favourite son of Coonamble and even has a grandstand named after him at the race club.

! Give us the trophy: Sportsbet have promoted the Panthers to clear Premier-

! Girl power: The ARL Commission will award four new NRLW licences by July this year, with the competition to expand to eight teams in 2023 and 10 teams in 2024. While there’s been no formal discussions, I’m told the NRL is very keen for the Panthers to have a team in the competition to help ensure the growth of the women’s game in western Sydney. !

Spotted: An emotional Sean

O’Sullivan embracing his father after last week’s win over Manly at BlueBet Stadium.

! Spill the tea: If you’ve got some Panthers gossip to share, make sure you email it to me! I don’t keep secrets but I do protect my sources. Email maskedpanther@ westernweekender.com.au.

NORMAN’S SCRAP METALS Free Call 1800 225 235 NEW & USED STEEL BOUGHT & SOLD 40

OPEN 7 DAYS MOST PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

WW47775

$$$$ buyers of all Ferrous SYDNEY - 9748 0611 PENRITH - 4732 1683 34 PEACHTREE ROAD, PENRITH FAX - 4721 7658 and Non-Ferrous Metals (Off Castlereagh Road) 6 BLIGH STREET, AUBURN PICK-UP SERVICE AVAILABLE WW47775

NEXT MAN UP WILL GET JOB DONE NATHAN TAYLOR

P

enrith enjoyed a dream start to their Premiership defence last Thursday night, but it did come at a cost with rampaging forward Moses Leota set to miss more than two months through injury.

The 26-year-old fractured his left shoulder while making a tackle during Penrith’s huge 28-6 win over Manly at BlueBet Stadium.

Following an intense rehabilitation program, Leota isn’t expected to return to the footy field for eight to 10 weeks.

Speaking with Extra Time on Monday, Panthers prop Scott Sorensen said Leota’s lengthy absence will be felt throughout the whole team.

“Everyone calls him the ‘Tank’, which explains how important he is to us,” Sorenson said.

“He’s explosive, powerful and a massive part of our pack. We will miss him.”

Set to come in for Leota this Friday night against the Dragons at Kogarah is fellow Premiership winner Spencer Leniu, who will enjoy just the second start of his young career.

Sorenson said he’s confident the 21-yearold Kiwi can make an impact.

Scott Sorenson after Panthers training on Monday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“There’s always a ‘next man up’ mentality at this club, I think anyone that jumps in and wears the jersey is definitely going to grab it with two hands, especially being the early stages of the year, where everyone’s

keen, everyone’s energetic and ready to play,” he said.

The ‘next man up’ mentality was on full display in Round 1 when local junior and club debutant Sean O’Sullivan stole the

show filling in for injured halfback and co-captain Nathan Cleary.

Sorenson said he hoped last Thursday’s season opener at Penrith Park dispelled any myths that the Premiers were a one-man team.

“We’re a very tight group and a close group, and if anyone has that perception that we are a one-man team, we can’t control everyone’s thoughts or what they think,” he said.

“We just want to do our job and do it well and represent our club well – whether you’re playing in the middle, on the edge, or at fullback.”

Penrith will look to remain on top of the competition for another week when they battle former coach Anthony Griffin and his St George-Illawarra Dragons this evening.

The Dragons recorded a strong opening round victory over the New Zealand Warriors last week and will no doubt be eager to knock off the defending champions next.

“The Dragons looked full of energy, and they look like they’ve done a lot of work in the pre-season as well, so it will be an exciting challenge for us,” Sorenson said.

“It is important to get a few wins on the board early, but I think our group is very grounded and we know that it’s one week at a time and that’s how we’re taking it.”

The match kicks off at 6pm.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 18, 2022

feature

Do you have an Investment Property?

How does your Property Manager rate?

If it’s not 10/10 then it may be time to consider a change Contact C o Taylah 0416 867 858 f a confidential chat to for d discuss how we can help 4728 4000 Visit: https://propertymanagementpenrith.com.au/ WW47020

41

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender • extra time

HOW CLEARY IS PLAYING THE GAME, AND WINNING AT IT TOO F

lang on league with Peter Lang

or a coach who is not very good at playing mind games or manipulating the media, Ivan Cleary does a bloody good impression of someone who is.

The Panthers’ 28-6 victory over Manly on the opening night of the 2022 NRL competition was a classic example of that fact.

Let me explain.

We all remember how sections of the rugby league media blew up after Wayne Bennett supposedly won the mind games over Cleary when the Bunnies beat the Panthers 16-10 in the first final last year.

Even Cleary laughed when asked whether there’d be further mind games before the Grand Final. He simply smiled and laughed it off saying he would go back to just being a coach.

Or so he would have us believe.

The softly spoken Cleary began planning his next big heist less than a week after his maiden premiership victory last year.

For five months all the media could talk about is whether his son Nathan would be ready to play in Round 1. He cleverly kept the media and opposition guessing by never ruling him out but also never ruling him in either.

That created doubt.

It’s been said that Sean O’Sullivan was told three weeks prior to the game against Manly that he would be the starting halfback on opening night.

That was the first part of the plan executed.

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary.

He then rested six of his Grand Final squad against the Eels in the ‘Battle of the West’ trial game recently.

The star players who turned up for that game only did what they had to. They ran and tackled with not a single attacking play run. Not one. I mean why show Des Hasler anything?

Instead he played Izack Tago in both trials to get him used to playing centre in match conditions and he put the much maligned Charlie Staines at fullback, a position which would give him the space to run and make some metres. He knew Staines needed to get his confidence back after a poor finish to the 2021 season.

The lacklustre second trial performance had some supporters and rugby league experts, including Brad Fittler, questioning the desire of the defending Premiers, and while idiots like myself worried that we were going to lose against Manly, Cleary just sat back and smiled.

By the time it was announced that Nathan would not play in Round 1, it was already too late for Des Hasler and his men. They would have fancied their chances following Nathan’s withdrawal and the awful performance by key players in the second trial, would have had Hasler licking his lips.

Hell even the bookmakers installed them as favourites, reflecting the public’s faith in a Sea Eagles victory.

So when the whistle to start the game blew, it was a good old fashioned ambush.

The poor bastards from the Northern Beaches never stood a chance.

For someone who is not good at mind games or manipulating the media, Ivan let me tell you, you’re much better than you think.

Well played, coach.

Preferred Healthcare Provider

Heel Pain Experts

Tuesdays 7:00pm-8:00pm

Suffering morning heel pain or pain after activity?

42

P: 4732 5188 | onepointhealth.com.au | 510 - 536 High St, Penrith

WW44350

WW46650

With over 20 causes of heel pain, an accurate diagnosis is vital to your recovery. Our podiatrists are here for you.

KENNY READY TO GO TO NEXT LEVEL NATHAN TAYLOR

W

ith two-time premiershipwinning hooker Api Koroisau departing Penrith at the conclusion of the 2022 season, attention has already turned to who will replace the one-time NSW Blues representative from next year and beyond.

While the defending Premiers may go to market and see what dummy-half options are out there, one player – already in their ranks – is hoping he can be the man to wear the soon-to-be vacated number nine jersey.

After re-signing with the Panthers in the

Kenny made his NRL debut with the Panthers back in 2019 and went on to play a dozen games of first grade that season.

While Kenny didn’t see much NRL in 2020, last year he played a whopping 18 matches – ironically the same amount as Koroisau.

With the Fijian international switching to the Wests Tigers from 2023, the Windsor Wolves junior said he’ll be squeezing every last bit of advice from his “mate” and “mentor” while he still can.

“Definitely… I have to get him for everything he’s worth,” Kenny laughed.

“I’ve only got seven months left with him, I just have to try and get everything I can out of him and, to Api’s credit, he’s really

hooker and I was just shovelling the ball to Jimmy Maloney and Nathan Cleary…

I didn’t know what I was doing,” Kenny admitted.

“Having Api here, he’s taught me a lot of understanding of the game from a hooker’s perspective – game management, a lot of stuff around his craft, and just his leadership and communication on the field as well. He’s a wonderful leader for us and I think that shows in the big games.”

And big games are something Kenny is hoping to play more of this season. After getting a taste of Finals footy in 2021 – playing in Penrith’s opening two Finals matches – Kenny was left out of the team for the club’s Preliminary Final and Grand Final wins last season.

While the part-time social media star holds no grudges and understands the pecking order, his goal this season is to be there on Grand Final Day and experience Premiership glory for real.

“I was definitely stoked for everyone last year and I just want this club to keep winning, but I’d love to play in one (a Grand Final) myself,” Kenny admitted.

“So the goal for me is to, 1. Get the club into a

position to be in another Grand Final, and 2. Hopefully do that myself.

“However, all that comes off the back of staying present and sticking to the process week by week, but there’s definitely a burning desire to want to be in that match day 17.”

Kenny is currently a member of Ivan Cleary’s 17, playing a utility role off the interchange bench.

Last week in Penrith’s huge season opening victory against the Sea Eagles, Kenny played just 14 minutes late in the second half.

“Playing a utility role has its challenges, but I’m definitely excited just to play first grade any time I can. If that’s my role, I’ll take it,” Kenny said.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 18, 2022

feature

Mitch Kenny playing last Thursday night. Photo: NRL Images.

recent off-season, popular player Mitch Kenny seems to be the most natural fit for the future hooking role at Penrith, having filled in for Koroisau with flying colours on numerous occasions over the past two seasons.

While the 24-year-old is still a long way off from knowing his long-term fate with the team, his mission to win that coveted starting spot has already begun.

“Yeah it’s in the back of my mind for sure, but I’m not looking too far ahead. I’m still trying to take it day by day, week by week kind of thing, and just work on myself as a player and a person,” Kenny said on Monday.

“I want to lock down that starting position next year, but that’s for next year to worry about. At the moment, I’m just trying to be the best player for this team.”

good with that sort of stuff.

He will often pull me aside or I’ll find him and ask him stuff, and we work on things together. He’s a really good mate and a good mentor to have as well.”

Kenny, who didn’t play much dummy half before debuting three years ago, admitted he was running around like a “headless chook” early in his NRL career before Koroisau arrived.

“That was my first year playing Mitch Kenny would love to wear the vacant number nine jersey at the Panthers in 2023. Photo: Melinda Jane.

43

panthers poster

44

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender • extra time

&DUSRUW

3DWLR

$OIUHVFR

,QVXODWHG )O\RYHU

5RRP ([WHQVLRQ

'HFN

6XQURRP

3HUJROD

%XLOGHUV /LFHQFH 1XPEHU

6KRZURRP &QU *UHDW :HVWHUQ +Z\ 5XVVHOO 6W (PX 3ODLQV KLFUDIW FRP DX

&RQWDFW XV IRU D )UHH 0HDVXUH 4XRWH

7UXVW WKH H[SHUWV WR WUDQVIRUP \RXU KRPH 6\GQH\·V OHDGHU LQ KRPH LPSURYHPHQWV VLQFH

DOB: 21/09/98 | HEIGHT: 179CM | WEIGHT: 86KG | POSITION: HALFBACK | NRL DEBUT: 2018

SEAN O’SULLIVAN

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 18, 2022

WW47744

45

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender • extra time

IF RUGBY LEAGUE NEEDS MORE CLASS, WELCH IS YOUR MAN E

matt russell Brought to you by

46

very Tuesday, I’m lucky to work with a couple of former rugby league props on Fox League’s ‘NRL Tonight’.

Tim Mannah and Mark ‘Spudd’ Carroll know a thing or two about life ‘in the middle’ – be it a tough carry or big tackle.

The conversation drifted to Christian Welch’s Achilles injury this week and their response made a big impression.

“Bloody good player,” said Spudd.

“Tough. I like him.”

That says something coming from Carroll. He has a keen eye for anyone wearing 8 or 10 and is a hard marker.

Mannah used a few more words: “He’s such a good bloke. So smart, respectful, giving, fun. Just a fantastic human.”

Mannah travelled to Uganda for Compassion Australia with Welch.

When pushed more about his footy ability, Mannah expanded: “In Melbourne’s (2020) Grand Final win, he was the best forward on the field.

Then in the Origin series post season, QLD was dismissed as having any chance, but won the two games Welch played, and lost the one he didn’t.”

It’s a big blow for Melbourne… and Welch himself.

Here’s a bloke who suffered an ACL rupture in 2017 and had to watch his

team go on to win the Premiership without him.

There were losing Grand Finals either side of that. Ouch!

So, imagine the pain when a knee went again late in 2019. He got back in 2020, played his heart out, and in the Premiership decider carried the ball 16 times for 122 run metres while making 41 tackles. No wonder Mannah was impressed.

Despite a third long-term injury this week, as he broke down recalling how upset his mum was, here’s what Welch had to say: “I know I have it much better than a lot of people, I still get paid and I don’t have to work (even though he will)… It’s only an injury. We’ll get there. We’ll come good.”

If rugby league needs more class, there it is.

Last time Welch was forced to recover from an ACL injury, he took himself to the US, tapped into the LA Lakers facilities and expertise, and altered his running style. No stone left unturned.

This injury will no doubt be met with the same determination.

Let’s hope Welch can fight his way back later in the season. Everyone would love that story.

As Carroll and Mannah also agreed this week; “Melbourne will still finish top four!”

Forward Christian Welch. Photo: NRL Images.

WW47792

CLUB

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

+/-

PTS

1

Panthers

1

1

0

0

0

28

6

+22

2

2

Knights

1

1

0

0

0

20

6

+14

2

3

Dragons

1

1

0

0

0

28

16

+12

2

4

Storm

1

1

0

0

0

26

16

+10

2

5

Broncos

1

1

0

0

0

11

4

+7

2

6

Raiders

1

1

0

0

0

24

19

+5

2

7

Eels

1

1

0

0

0

32

28

+4

2

8

Bulldogs

1

1

0

0

0

6

4

+2

2

9

Cowboys

1

0

0

1

0

4

6

-2

0

10 Titans

1

0

0

1

0

28

32

-4

0

11

1

0

0

1

0

19

24

-5

0

Sharks

12 Rabbitohs

1

0

0

1

0

4

11

-7

0

13 W. Tigers

1

0

0

1

0

16

26

-10

0

14 Warriors

1

0

0

1

0

16

28

-12

0

16 Sea Eagles

1 1

0 0

0 0

1 1

0 0

6 6

20 28

-14 -22

ROUND 2 V

Thursday, March 17 8.05pm AAMI Park

V

Friday, March 18 6.00pm Kogarah Oval

V

Friday, March 18 8.05pm SCG

V

Saturday, March 19 3.00pm Cbus Super Stadium

V

Saturday, March 19 5.30pm PointsBet Stadium

V

Saturday, March 19 7.35pm QLD Country Bank Stadium

V

Sunday, March 20 4.05pm McDonald Jones Stadium

0 0

V

Sunday, March 20 6.15pm Accor Stadium

Face In Th e Crowd

IS THIS YOU YOU? U? Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game? If it is, you’ve won a Hoyts Family Movie Pass to use at any Hoyts Cinema in Australia! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 2022-002 PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au WRITERS Nathan Taylor, Peter Lang, Warren Smith, Lachlan Jeffery SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi / 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

Team Faico

A winning combination C a m e ro n F a i c o 0434 400 225

I n di Cl eary 043 9 5 47 3 67

cameron.faico@propertycentral.com.au

teamfaico@propertycentral.com.au

4728 4000 WW47431

15 Roosters

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 18, 2022

nrl ladder & fixtures

OFFICIAL PARTNER WW47204

47

48

WW43954

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender • extra time

T

lower grades report with Lachlan Jeffery @LachlanJeffery

he Penrith Panthers have shown exactly why they are considered one of the teams to beat in the KnockOn Effect NSW Cup for season 2022, thumping the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles 24-4 at Bluebet Stadium, after the match was moved there from Blacktown due to the recent bad weather.

Halfback Kurt Falls got the scoring underway for the Panthers in the 15th minute, carrying four defenders with him for a try from a scrum.

Falls was instrumental in the next try, setting up Robert Jennings in the right-hand corner in the 34th minute, giving the Panthers a 10-0 lead that they took to half time.

The lead became 16-0 shortly after the break when Soni Luke scored from a simple show-andgo from dummy-half.

It looked like the floodgates would open in the 54th minute when a strong break by fullback Sunia Turuva saw him beat four defenders on his way to the tryline.

Blacktown pegged one back when Andrew Davey scored out wide, however the Panthers

Penrith in action in the NSW Cup. Photo: Jake Hunter.

my panther memories

scored again almost immediately through Tom Jenkins, restoring the 20 point margin which remained until full-time.

It wasn’t quite as easy for the Jersey Flegg Panthers, however they too ran out winners, 30-20 in a see-sawing game against Manly.

An early try saw the Sea Eagles take a 4-0 lead down their left, but the Panthers hit back when halfback Connor Mason sent Hohepa Puru through from a deft short pass.

Manly quickly took the lead back with another try on the left flank, however a spectacular leap from Simon Tito saw him score on the stroke of half-time to give Penrith a 12-10 advantage.

The second half continued from where the first left off, with Manly scoring another try on their left, but that was quickly nullified when Mason’s good footwork allowed him to put Ilai Tuai over.

The Sea Eagles took the lead back again shortly after, however from that point on it was all Penrith, with the right edge dominating and tries being scored by Isaiah Iongi, Daeon Amituanai and Ativalu Lisati.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 18, 2022

PANTHERS GET SEASON OFF TO A STRONG START IN CUP, FLEGG

ST MARYS

FISH & CHIPS St Marys Village Shopping Centre Next to Woolworths

~ OPEN TAKEAWAY ~ Eat inFOR or Take-away

What is your greatest Penrith Panthers memory?

Still the loudest thing I have ever heard in a football stadium. Nothing else has compared so far in my live experience to when Jamie Soward kicked THAT field goal against the Chooks in 2014.

Why was this memory so important to you?

It was like a coming of age. We all saw how our team fared between 2006-2013.

Dark days. But when Jamie Soward signed, we dared to dream that we might have a *real* team. Being in those mostly empty stands at Penrith Stadium in 2014, felt like we knew of the NRL’s best kept secret – that maybe all those years of suffering had finally paid off. We make the Finals, against the Roosters. Triple M’s Gus Worland is so confident he

makes a bet with MG. The loser, getting the other team’s mascot tattooed on their butt! Penrith, with a mounting injury toll throughout the season had been written off. They can’t do it, impossible. Dallin scores that try, Sowie kicks it from the sideline and then we held our breaths as the ball flew through the sticks from 40 metres out. Then we screamed. We’re in front. We look at the clock and there is only eight seconds left. We count them down and we’ve won. Coming of age, Penrith is back! There were hiccups along the way, and the team that lifted the trophy last year is probably completely different man-to-man. That season gave us hope again.

How long have you been supporting the Panthers?

26 years (my whole life).

SUBMIT YOUR MEMORY – EMAIL INFO@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

Special Offer MIXED

20 Fish Cocktails $25.00 SEAFOOD FAMILY PACK with FREE Tartare Sauce 10 Fish Cocktails, 10 Calamari Rings, 4 Seafood Sticks, 4 Prawn Cutlets, 4 Battered Mussels,

Small Coffee 1 FREE Medium$2.50 Chips & with Medium Salad Scallop

39

Hot Dog $ $3.00 90each

9833 9833 4551 4551

Opening hours 8am-8pm 7 days WW44279

NAME: ADAM DUFFEY | SUBURB: ERSKINE PARK

WW47781

49

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender • extra time

celebrity tipsters james shillito HERTZ | 47316 344

jeff lemon KHP CIVIL | 4773 9275

hans bor VISION PAINTING | 0404 459 600

nathan taylor THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998

richard emerson EMERSON’S ENVIROCARE | 0419 972 399

corey phillips LEISURE POOLS | 0415 699 086

garth butler PENRITH TOYOTA | 8805 9500

troy dodds THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998

kim riley CATHOLIC CEMETERIES | 9826 2273

donna hildon SUPREMACY FUNERALS | 4721 2020

lee waterhouse PROPERTY CENTRAL | 0410 338 040

matt keen KEEN AIR SOLUTIONS | 8002 1822

joseph vella AGENT4U REALTY GROUP | 0403 183 638

ian garton MCDONALD’S GARTON GROUP | 4721 2992

gizzelle powell REMAX/LIFESTYLE MARKETING | 0428 934 618

victor glanville VICS MAXI TRANSPORT | 4732 2195

chris gross VISION PERSONAL TRAINING | 4745 5079

derry o’donovan O’DONOVANS | 0414 254 074

ben carter CARTERS TAX ADVISORY | 4708 3088

leigh hartog 50

JK WILLIAMS | 4725 3400

STORM PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

14

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

12

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

12

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

SHARKS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

12

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

12

STORM PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

12

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

12

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

SHARKS COWBOYS

TIGERS BRONCOS

10

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS COWBOYS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

10

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

SHARKS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

10

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS COWBOYS

TIGERS BRONCOS

10

STORM DRAGONS

SEA EAGLES TITANS

SHARKS COWBOYS

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

10

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

10

STORM PANTHERS

MANLY TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

10

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

10

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

10

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

10

STORM PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

10

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

10

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

10

BELL PARTNERS | 9249 7600

ross fowler ROSS FOWLER & CO | 0419 738 484

indi cleary PROPERTY CENTRAL | 0439 547 367

michael ashton CC TYRES | 4731 4822

david collins STANTON & TAYLOR REAL ESTATE | 0437 436 933

luke belotti MACQUARIE COMMERCIAL | 0402 896 906

lee banister TRESAMI COMPUTER ENGINEERING | 1300 318 444

dee barlow COUNTRY BREWER | 4731 5444

alex mckenzie FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES | 0414 330 651

keith wilson IRRESISTABLE POOLS & SPAS | 4776 1118

david thomas C A HILL | 4736 6066

asha dooley GRACE FUNERALS | 4735 6900

chris ayling ARUM ADVISORY | 8302 3677

keiran mcgarity RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL | 0417 228 504

terry hansen PROFESSIONALS OUTER WESTERN SYDNEY | 0418 245 683

jason sproh GENESIS AIR CONDITIONING | 0405 445 484

cameron faico PROPERTY CENTRAL | 0434 400 225

charbel geagea KELLY PARTNERS | 4726 9666

shanaka de silva SYNERGY ACCOUNTING | 4732 6555

ken hale KEN HALE PLUMBING | 4773 9275

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES TITANS

EELS COWBOYS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

SHARKS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

8

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

8

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

8

STORM DRAGONS

ROOSTERS TITANS

SHARKS COWBOYS

TIGERS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

SHARKS RAIDERS

TIGERS BULLDOGS

8

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

6

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS COWBOYS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

6

STORM PENRITH

ROOSTERS TITIANS

SHARKS RAIDERS

NEWCASTLE BRONCOS

6

STORM PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES TITANS

SHARKS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

6

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS RAIDERS

KNIGHTS BULLDOGS

6

STORM PANTHERS

ROOSTERS TITANS

EELS COWBOYS

KNIGHTS BRONCOS

6

RABBITOHS PANTHERS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

EELS RAIDERS

TIGERS BRONCOS

4

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 18, 2022

mark stevenson

51

Free

$790.00 Gifts

WW47640

52

Friday, March 18, 2022 « the western weekender