Extra Time 2023 Round 4: Panthers v Eels (March 24 2023)

Page 1

THE GRAND FINAL RE-MATCH

we own the west

EELS ARE OUR SONS: PANTHERS LOOK TO CONTINUE DOMINATION

MASKED PANTHER

SEE PAGE 37

PETER LANG

SEE PAGE 43

WARREN SMITH

SEE PAGE 44

the western weekender • extra time » 34 Friday, March 24, 2023 ABLE TURE LEADING A ABLE TURE W W W . E A T H E R G R O U P . C O M . A U WW50844 WW50859 Who you entrust with your child’s early development is one of the most important decisions you will make. We are proud of our strong reputation as the most nurturing and vibrant childcare centre in the Emu Plains community, locally owned for over 25 years! Book in a tour to see our purpose-built outdoor environments that span over vast areas, creating limitless opportunities for exploration and play. Contact the team at Mud Puddles Cottage or visit our website 4735 7733 | mudpuddlescottage.com.au | 53-59 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains LIMITEDAVAILABLE!PLACES ENROLLING NOW FOR 2023 ARE YOU READY TO JOIN OUR TALENTED TEAM? We have available opportunities for Certificate 3 and Diploma educators. Flexible work hours and ongoing PD provided. Email your resume to office@mudpuddlescottage.com.au and register your interest before these positions are filled. We look forward to hearing from you & working along side you, developing your career in Early Childhood Education & Care with Mud Puddles Cottage. WW50859

the final word v

I’m not sure Penrith has faced a bigger regular season danger game in the last few seasons than this one.

Ivan Cleary’s side comes up against a Parramatta team that still hasn’t won this season, with the desperation to grab two competition points matched only by a desire to get one back on their western Sydney rivals after last year’s Grand Final.

Penrith sit inside the top eight going into this clash but it’s safe to say it’s been a sluggish start to the season, with a first-up loss to Brisbane and a better, albeit far from convincing, performance against Souths.

In the end the Round 3 bye, which originally appeared to be a curse more than a blessing, could work out perfectly for the Panthers. An early season camp to brush away the cobwebs

was perhaps exactly what Cleary’s side needed, especially given both Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai picked up some niggling injuries against the Rabbitohs.

Parramatta may be none from three to start the season, but they’ve been in every game up to their necks. A Golden Point loss to the Storm in Round 1, a four point loss to the Sharks in the second round and another four point loss to Manly in frantic circumstances last Thursday night.

The way the rugby league Gods work, you’d think the Eels would have to win eventually. Hence, danger game.

But Parramatta will have to overcome two significant factors to upset the Panthers.

The first is the season’s defensive records so far. The Eels have conceded more points than

any other team so far this season, while the Panthers have conceded the least (albeit with a bye also in the mix). Regardless of how Penrith may have started the season, their ability to only concede two tries a game remains well intact.

The other is that Penrith have simply owned Parramatta in big games over the years. The Eels were crowing about their two regular season victories over the Panthers last year but when it really mattered, Penrith rose to the occasion and dominated the Eels in both the Finals and Grand Final.

The 2021 Finals, Nathan Hindmarsh’s 300th... the occasions roll on, and Penrith has spoilt many of them for Parramatta.

Still, there’s something about beaten Grand Finalists wanting to topple the team that stole

their dream the year before. It means nothing but two competition points in the end, but there’s a bit of pride on the line and I’ve got little doubt the Eels would have had this one circled in the calendar for some time.

The Eels welcome back Ryan Matterson for this clash, while the Panthers add Scott Sorensen to the line-up after he missed the Rabbitohs game under concussion protocols. I’m expecting a tight first half, but over the course of 80 minutes, the Eels’ anger over last year’s Grand Final result, the comments made afterwards and the general dislike for their now big brother will start to dissipate and the quality will rise to the surface. As long as Penrith withstand the early hits, they’ll do enough in the second half to win this one.

Tip: Panthers by 6.

match preview
Dylan Edwards saves a try against Souths.
TROY DODDS THURSDAY, MARCH 23 | 8.00PM | COMMBANK STADIUM | REFEREE: ASHLEY KLEIN | BUNKER: ADAM GEE
PANTHERS 1 Dylan Edwards 10 James Fisher-Harris 2 Sunia Turuva 11 Luke Garner 3 Izack Tago 12 Liam Martin 4 Stephen Crichton 13 Isaah Yeo (c) 5 Brian To’o 14 Soni Luke 6 Jarome Luai 15 Scott Sorensen 7 Nathan Cleary (c) 16 Spencer Leniu 8 Moses Leota 17 Jaeman Salmon 9 Mitch Kenny 18 Matt Eisenhuth 19 Zac Hosking EELS 1 Clint Gutherson 10 Junior Paulo 2 Maika Sivo 11 Bryce Cartwright 3 Will Penisini 12 Ryan Matterson 4 Waqa Blake 13 J’Maine Hopgood 5 Bailey Simonsson 14 Matt Doorey 6 Dylan Brown 15 Brendan Hands 7 Mitchell Moses 16 Wiremu Greig 8 Reagan Campbell-Gillard 17 Makahesi Makatoa 9 Josh Hodgson 18 Jake Arthur 19 Jirah Momoisea Brought to you by TRIPLE M NRL NATION CHANNEL 9 FOX LEAGUE BROADCAST « the western weekender • extra time 35 Friday, March 24, 2023
Photo: NRL Images.

nrl ladder & fixtures

4

here ’ s cheers

NAME: BRIANNA THURLING AGE: 19

SUBURB: GLENMORE PARK

Seasons as a Pantherette? Two Favourite food? Chicken Schnitzel

Favourite TV show? ‘Grey’s Anatomy’

Favourite Panthers player? Liam Martin Must-follow social media account? @ nrlphysio, because I’m currently studying a Bachelor of Physiotherapy. Go-to pump up song? ‘Without Me’, Eminem What do you love about being a Panther-

ette? I love that I get to do what I love for a team that I love. I love interacting with all of the fans whilst cheering on our mighty Panthers. Game day is always my favourite day because of the atmosphere at BlueBet. If you were stranded on a desert island, who are you bringing with you and why?

I would probably say my brother. As much as we fight and annoy each other, he still is one of the most amazing humans.

CLUB PD W D L B F A +/- PTS 1 Broncos 3 3 0 0 0 81 46 +35 6 2 Dolphins 3 3 0 0 0 84 52 +32 6 3 Sea Eagles 2 2 0 0 1 65 36 +29 6 4 Warriors 3 2 0 1 0 58 44 +14 4 5 Panthers 2 1 0 1 1 28 23 +5 4 6 Titans 3 2 0 1 0 78 76 +2 4 7 Roosters 3 2 0 1 0 58 58 0 4 8 Bulldogs 3 2 0 1 0 58 65 -7 4 9 Dragons 2 1 0 1 1 50 58 -8 4 10 Rabbitohs 3 1 0 2 0 55 54 +1 2 11 Raiders 3 1 0 2 0 56 59 -3 2 12 Sharks 3 1 0 2 0 68 77 -9 2 13 Storm 3 1 0 2 0 62 76 -14 2 14 Knights 3 1 0 2 0 46 68 -22 2 15 Cowboys 3 1 0 2 0 47 72 -25 2 16 Eels 3 0 0 3 0 68 80 -12 0 17 W. Tigers 3 0 0 3 0 44 62 -18 0 Thursday, March 23 8.00pm CommBank Stadium Friday, March 24 8.00pm Suncorp Stadium BYE: ROOSTERS Saturday, March 25 7.35pm Accor Stadium Sunday, March 26 4.05pm McDonald Jones Stadium Friday, March 24 6.00pm AAMI Park Saturday, March 25 5.30pm QLD Country Bank Stadium Sunday, March 26 2.00pm Mt Smart Stadium Sunday, March 26 6.15pm Netstrata Jubilee Stadium
V V V V V V V V Extra Time Issue Number 2023-004 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 IS THIS YOU? face in the crowd Is this you at a recent Panthers game? If it is, you’ve won a carton of Drink West beer thanks to the team at Drink West. To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor. Winner must be over 18. Drink responsibly. the western weekender • extra time » 36 Friday, March 24, 2023 Contact us to find out how to use your NDIS plan to access these services P: 4732 5188 | onepointhealth.com.au | 510 - 536 High St, Penrith Podiatry Physiotherapy Exercise Physiology Dietetics Orthopaedic Footwear Orthotics & Splints OnePointHealth is a registered NDIS provider of . . . Preferred Healthcare Provider WW46650
ROUND

PANTHERS PAY TRIBUTE TO SATTS

! Tributes to a legend: The Panthers were quick to post a social media tribute to John Sattler on Monday following his passing at the age of 80. “Vale John Sattler. Our thoughts are with the entire Sattler family at this time,” the post said. While John was a South Sydney man to the core, the Sattler family is very important to the Panthers given son Scott’s 118 games for the club from 1999 to 2003. John and Scott came together for a fun rivalry photo in 2021 (pictured below) ahead of Penrith and Souths double battle in the Grand Final that year.

a big Panthers fan and Luai didn’t hesitate in paying the youngster a visit. You can see more pics on the club’s social channels.

! Stadium silence: The Liberal Party put out a sneaky tweet last week suggesting Labor Candidate for Penrith, Karen McKeown, opposes the proposed new Penrith Stadium. It stems from Council’s involvement in the stadium debate last year and is one of those political claims that circles the truth without quite landing on it. What is true is that it’s less likely the new stadium will go ahead at the Paceway and Showground site if Labor win the election. They’re not willing, unless a strong business case suggests otherwise, to entertain an expanded budget for the project. That could leave the whole project in a difficult position – knocking down and re-building essentially the same stadium on the existing site would be illogical and make little sense – which is why the Paceway and Showground concept came to the fore.

! Shhh: Which Channel Nine commentator rudely snubbed a fan from the corporate area at BlueBet Stadium wanting a photo recently? He eventually agreed to the photo, despite looking less than impressed.

! Luai’s touching gesture: They are the images that have touched the rugby league community’s heart – Panthers five-eighth Jarome Luai visiting young fan Nicholas in hospital in Queensland. Nicholas was involved in the Sea World helicopter accident earlier this year and faces an enormous health battle ahead. He’s

! World Cup support: Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary is leading a push for Ukraine to play in the next Rugby League World Cup. Cleary, who has some Ukrainian heritage, is helping push awareness for the country’s campaign for recognition as a legitimate rugby league competitor and its current struggles after the Russian invasion last year.

! Henry’s extended deal: The Panthers continue to show their hand when it comes to the forward pack of the future, extending the contract of 21-year-old prop Liam Henry (pictured below) until the end of the 2026 season. He was already locked in to Penrith until the end of 2024.

! Dolphins tickets selling fast: There’s not many tickets left for the Dolphins’ first ever clash with Penrith at Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe on July 16. Only single seats remain in the Platinum and Gold sections, with limited tickets available in the Silver section. If you’re thinking of heading up to the historic game, you better get your tickets now.

! Easter treats: If you’re heading to the Royal Easter Show this year, don’t forget to get your hands on the Penrith Panthers showbag. It costs $30 this year and includes a cap, car sign, sports bag, pencil case, temporary tattoos, tote bag and a few other surprises.

! QLD battle steals focus: Fox League got

itself into an obsession this week with the ‘battle of Brisbane’ between the Dolphins and Broncos on Friday night. There’s no question it’s a big game, but they almost totally ignored the Grand Final re-match between Penrith and Parramatta. It deserved a much bigger build-up.

! Cleary’s milestone: Penrith coach Ivan Cleary celebrated his 400th first grade game as an NRL coach on Thursday night against Parramatta at CommBank Stadium.

! Spill the tea: If you’ve got any Panthers

panther rumblings
Penrith’s tribute to John Sattler.
WITH THE MASKED PANTHER « the western weekender • extra time 37 Friday, March 24, 2023 Get your paws dirty and jump in with all four feet!! Apply at www.dingoden.net/volunteer If you have a passion for animals and the environment then come and join our team of dedicated volunteers to truly make a difference There are a variety of different roles at Dingo Den Animal Rescue where all experiences and skill sets are valued. From den keeping and rescue through to administration, fundraising and event coordination we have something for everyone!! Volunteer opportunities now available !!!

GARNER MAKES HIS MARK AT PENRITH

“They play a high intensity here and it’s something that I probably haven’t held myself to the last couple of years,” Garner admitted.

After being called out by coach Ivan Cleary in a recent postmatch press conference, new Panthers backrower Luke Garner says he’s working hard to reach the intensity levels it requires to be a member of the back-to-back Premiers.

Following Penrith’s Round 1 loss to the Brisbane Broncos earlier this month, Cleary said it’s going to take the former Tiger “a while to get used to how we play and the intensity that we play”.

Garner’s performance in Round 2 against the South Sydney Rabbitohs was a lot better, playing 66 minutes and racking up nine tackle breaks in a tight Penrith win.

Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, the 27-year-old said playing at such a high intensity was not something he was used to at Wests.

“I’m learning how to play at that intensity and at that level, but it has taken me a couple of weeks to try and adjust to it.

“Each game I’m picking it up slowly but there’s plenty of work to do still and it’s a long season.”

After fan favourite Viliame Kikau’s departure to Canterbury during the off-season, Penrith were in desperate need of an experienced backrower to replace him.

While there’s no one in the game that has the x-factor and unique capabilities that Kikau possesses, the Panthers knew an experienced head – that was no stranger to finding the try line – was just what they required to fill the gaping hole.

With Kikau already posing for photos in Bulldogs colours, Garner revealed how he received a text message from coach Cleary early last

year, asking what his plans were for season 2023 and beyond.

“Me and Ivan had a bit of a relationship going back to the Tigers and we kept in contact here and there over the years,” he said.

“When I was coming off contract, Ivan flicked me a text asking what my plans were for the next coming years and I didn’t have anything at the time.

“I entertained the idea of speaking to him and the club, and ever since Iv made contact, it made me pretty excited imagining what it would be like to play here.”

Just a few months later, a deal between Garner and the club was finalised, with a two-year deal at the Panthers signed, sealed and delivered.

Garner said watching Penrith reach three straight Grand Finals and win two NRL Premierships was enough to convince him that the next phase of his 80-plus game career could be a fruitful one.

“I don’t think it’s really kicked in until the past couple of years, seeing how good to win a premiership would be,” he said.

“Seeing how much fun they (Penrith) have and how enjoyable

it would be to win a comp, that’s definitely part of the reason why I’m here, is to help bring success to this club.”

While Panthers supporters have been unfairly comparing Kikau and Garner after just two regular season games, the latter said he’s put expectations on himself to be the best player he can be.

“We’re different players me and Viliame,” Garner said.

“There is a bit of… not pressure… but expectation that I would come in and help bring success. That expectation is on myself and not from the club or the players, it’s on myself to hold that success and help bring it to the club.”

The Dubbo product will start in the backrow in his third consecutive game for the Panthers on Thursday night, in a re-match of the 2022 NRL Grand Final. This will be Garner’s first taste of Penrith’s fierce rivalry with Parramatta, and he can’t wait to be a part of it.

“It’s obviously a big game but it’s just another game. I don’t know if that’s me being naïve because I wasn’t in the Grand Final last year, so it just feels like another game to me,” Garner said.

feature
Luke Garner in a big collision against the Broncos. Photo: NRL Images. Luke Garner fends off Adam Reynolds. Photo: NRL Images.
the western weekender • extra time » 38 Friday, March 24, 2023
NATHAN TAYLOR

TURUVA’S BIG CALL IS PAYING OFF

After being heavily pursued by Wayne Bennett and the Dolphins, exciting Panthers winger Sunia Turuva says he’s glad he decided to remain at the foot of the Mountains.

The 20-year-old Fijian makes a brief cameo in new Stan documentary series ‘Dawn of the Dolphins’, which takes a behind-the-scenes look into the NRL’s newest franchise. In episode two, Turuva is featured meeting with Dolphins officials last year at their

Redcliffe headquarters. The currently undefeated Queenslanders were in the process of building up their roster for their debut season and saw Turuva as the perfect young and up and coming prospect to sign up.

In the end, Turuva chose to remain loyal to his local club, re-signing with the Panthers until the end of 2024.

Speaking with Extra Time, Turuva said he didn’t even know he was part of the three-part doco series until one of his teammates told him.

“I didn’t even know I was in it until Moses told me, Moses Leota… I haven’t even seen it yet,” he admitted.

“Obviously it was a tough decision for me at the time, I had a few headaches for a couple of weeks but I’m glad I re-signed at Penrith.”

Remaining a Panther long-term appears to be the right move for Turuva, who has found himself a permanent spot in first grade sooner than expected.

With Ben Alexander Rookie of the Year winner Taylan May injuring his ACL in the World Club Challenge last month, Turuva now has the perfect opportunity to make the left wing position his own.

“When ‘Tiny’ was ruled out for the season, all the boys were upset for him because he had a big pre-season,” Turuva said.

“Just for myself, I have to match what he was doing because he was doing such a good job there – yardage carries, the way he was finishing tries.

“I don’t want to make it too difficult job for myself, but I’ve been surrounding myself with

the right people who have been a big help.”

Despite 21-year-old May only fairly new to the NRL himself, Turuva admits it’s big shoes to fill.

“‘Tiny’ did a great job last year, he led the tries for us. He scored nearly every week – I don’t know how he did it,” he said.

“I’m not feeling too much pressure, I just have to be myself out there on the field and I know that will go a long way for myself and the team.”

Now just five games into his NRL career, Turuva said he’s getting plenty of help from left edge teammates Jarome Luai and Izack Tago. “I’m getting really confident, especially having Izack and Jarome there,” he said.

“They’ve been constantly tipping me up whether I’m doing something right or wrong. If I’m doing something wrong, they’ll correct me. It’s just about getting the combos right.”

feature
Panthers winger Sunia Turuva before kick-off. Photo: NRL Images. Sunia Turuva. Photo: NRL Images.
« the western weekender • extra time 39 Friday, March 24, 2023 Sydney’s newest crematorium is now open at Kemps Creek Offering the latest technology with exceptional + affordable care from a trusted not for profit operator. Pre-purchase available for those wishing to plan ahead. Phone 02 9826 2273 or visit www.sydneycrematorium.com.au WW48694
NATHAN TAYLOR
the western weekender • extra time » 40 Friday, March 24, 2023
panthers poster

POSITION: FIVE-EIGHTH | NRL DEBUT: 2018

WEIGHT: 90KG |

HEIGHT: 184CM |

DOB: 16/01/97 |

LUAI « the western weekender • extra time 41 Friday, March 24, 2023 Showroom: Cnr Great W estern Hwy & Russell St, Emu Plains 1300 659 276 hicraft. com.au Builders Licence Number 37487 Contact us for a Free Measure & Quote Trust the experts to transform your home Sydney’s leader in home improvements since 1959 Alfresco Carport Deck Pergola Insulated Flyover Patio Room Extension Sunroom WW50861
JAROME
the western weekender • extra time » 42 Friday, March 24, 2023 50850

analysis THANK JIM IT'S FOOTY FRIDAY! $25 JIM BEAM AND COKE BUCKETS

This week I’d like to take a look at five danger games for the Panthers this season. I wanted to wait a few rounds so I could get a better idea of which opponents may cause Penrith the most problems. Had I written this before Round 1, the list would’ve been a whole lot different.

Round 8: Thursday, April 20

– Panthers v Rabbitohs – Accor Stadium.

My worry here is that despite the Panthers’ crushing dominance over the Bunnies over the last three years, the Rabbitohs always give Penrith trouble and put quite

Round 12: Thursday, May 18 – Panthers v Broncos – Suncorp Stadium.

Undefeated and playing some good attacking footy, the Broncos have shown that their first-round win against the Premiers was no fluke.

Over the years Brisbane have always been able to match the Panthers for large periods of time but this year, they’re playing great football for the whole game. They also have some very special players to boot.

GAME QUICK PRE-GAME BITES WITH $18 DINNER AND DRINK OFFERS KIDS EAT FREE BETWEEN 5 AND 7PM WITH EVERY $20 SPEND WWW.PENRITH.PANTHERS.COM.AU

FFRIDAY RIDAY 331ST 1ST MARCH MARCH SUPPORT THE PANTHERS LIVE & LOUD IN THE BASEMENT WW50754

PANTHERS
DANGER GAMES LURK AHEAD lang on league DAY DEALS! BRING A MATE AND GET 2 FOR $24 DEALS *T&C'S APPLY FOR ALL OFFERS, CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

EDWARDS REALLY HAS IT ALL

One of the great things about a Grand Final re-match is getting to go back and look at the big plays that helped to decide the outcome of the game that provides us with a champion team.

warren smith

The standout moment from Penrith’s 28-12 victory over the Eels last October was undoubtedly Dylan Edwards’ 58th minute try-saving cover tackle on Parramatta centre Bailey Simonsson that prompted instant comparisons with Scott Sattler’s iconic tackle on Todd Byrne in 2003. Both of those efforts sit comfortably amongst the most memorable pieces of play in the history of the Panthers club, with Edwards’ tackle helping him to secure the Clive Churchill medal for an outstanding performance in Penrith’s dominant win.

When Edwards sprinted across the field to intersect with Simonsson and the sideline the score was 22-nil – a more than handy lead, but if the Eels score on that play who knows how the rest of the game plays out.

You only have to go back to the Panthers’ own fast finish against the Storm in the 2020 Grand Final to realise how quickly momentum can shift when a team has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Ivan Cleary knew what it meant.

2.

3.

The coach isn’t exactly known for his emotional displays in the coaches box – kisses blown to irate Tigers fans excluded – but there he was, rising out of his seat and pumping his fist like he’d backed the trifecta in the Melbourne Cup, full of joy and admiration for a fullback that rarely gets mentioned when the subject of superstar Number 1’s gets brought up, but one who never leaves anything in the tank in the pursuit of victory.

Success and its effect on the salary cap has seen the Panthers’ ranks raided for the past two years, with more departures coming at the end of the current season.

Dylan Edwards is signed on at Penrith until the end of the 2024 season, but after making it known that he would like to be a Panther for life at the time of his latest contract extension, it would be a surprise if the club doesn’t grant him that wish if his solid form continues.

He has everything you want in a fullback, including a toughness that was hidden from the public during the 2021 Finals campaign when he played through a debilitating foot injury.

If there is to be the potential for a Panthers three-peat in 2023, you can guarantee the unassuming fullback from Dorrigo will be a huge part of another run at the title.

hidden panther WHO AM I ?

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER: Dallin Watene-Zelezniak

I’m very active on Twitter.
1.
I like cats and dogs.
I have my own podcast.
hotdogs at the footy.
4. I once sold
for Penrith.
5. I played 23 games
CAN YOU SEEK OUT THE HIDDEN PANTHER IN THIS WEEK’S QUIZ?
Brought to you by Dylan Edwards is one of the game’s best fullbacks.
analysis the western weekender • extra time » 44 Friday, March 24, 2023 WW48516 WW47577 E MERSON’S NVIROCARE PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES WW47577 IF IT’S A PEST PROBLEM WE’LL FIX IT EMERSON’S ENVIROCARE | Commercial, Industrial and Residential CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE 1800 600 760 www.emersonsenvirocaresydney.com

HARDEN’S EASY MOVE TO NEW GIG

After a decade in various roles within the Penrith Panthers, Ben Harden has found the move to NSW Cup coach a smooth transition after replacing Peter Wallace this season.

Since joining the club in 2012, Harden has held numerous jobs at the Panthers, including coach of SG Ball and Jersey Flegg, Head of Pathways and a role with the NRL squad.

Harden identified the roles he’s held within lower grades and pathways among the keys of the easy transition for himself and the players.

“Any player in our NSW Cup squad at the moment, I’ve either coached in my teams or coached throughout our programs,” Harden said.

“I’ve been around them and they’ve been familiar with me ever since they first came into our club. It’s handy having known most of these boys for three-plus years.”

That familiarity has not only helped the coach and players, but the settled nature of the squad has made it easy for new additions to the club, according to Harden.

“For new players coming into the system… it’s easier for them to transition into because they get connected to the group,” he said.

“They understand the club and the culture is so connected.

“We’ve got blokes like Zac Hosking and Jack Cogger, they’ve slipped in seamlessly because of how tight the rest of the group is.”

Harden also believes the tight-knit nature of the squad has helped youngsters like Jesse McLean and Jack Cole as they move into regular senior footy, while also nominating the experienced Tyrone Peachey along with Thomas Jenkins, Lindsay Smith and Liam Henry as some of the

pre-season’s best performers aiming for NRL appearances in 2023.

Facing Parramatta after the bye will also give the Panthers an advantage as they look to remain unbeaten, according to Harden.

“With the short pre-season, we had the majority of the boys come back from the World Cup, so we had to hit the ground running,” he said.

“It’s good that after a couple of trials and first

with Lachlan Jeffery
lower grades report
@LachlanJeffery
lower
grades
« the western weekender • extra time 45 Friday, March 24, 2023 www.my88.com.au BREKKY BREKKY BREKKY WITH WITH WITH WAYNE WAYNE WAYNE AFTERNOONS AFTERNOONS AFTERNOONS WITH WITH WITH MADELEINE MADELEINE MADELEINE WW48139 WW48139
Panthers NSW Cup halfback Jack Cogger. Photo: NRL Images.
AMPED UP AIR CONDITIONING | 4789 2268 brett nicholson 024 MCDONALD’S GARTON GROUP | 4721 2992 ian garton 024 ROSS FOWLER & CO | 0419 738 484 ross fowler 026 PENRITH SOLAR CENTRE | 1800 202 930 jake warner 026 KELLY PARTNERS | 4726 9666 andrew berger 030 VICS MAXI TRANSPORT | 4732 2195 victor glanville 032 LEISURE POOLS | 0415 699 086 corey phillips 026 LAKESIDE RESTAURANT | 0419 491 125 vince capalupo 026 KENNO’S CRANES AND TRANSPORT | 0481 244 098 andrew kennedy 028 HIX GROUP | 4721 7500 kane davis 024 KELLY PARTNERS | 4726 9666 charbel geagea 026 RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL | 0417 228 530 philip habib 028 THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998 nathan taylor 028 YORK JEWELLERS | 4721 0780 douglas ely 030
PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS VICS MAXI TRANSPORT | 4732 2195 victor glanville 000 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS IRRESISTIBLE POOLS & SPAS | 4776 1118 keith wilson 028 PENRITH TOYOTA | 8805 9500 garth butler 026 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS SUPREMACY FUNERALS | 4721 2020 donna hildon 026 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS CARTERS TAX ADVISORY | 4708 3088 ben carter 026 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS DRAGONS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS TRESAMI COMPUTER ENGINEERING | 1300 318 444 lee banister 030 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS RAIDERS DRAGONS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES WARRIORS RAIDERS DRAGONS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM DOLPHINS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS RAIDERS DRAGONS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS RAIDERS DRAGONS GOURMET MEAT CO | 4735 1400 bill mcdeed 024 PANTHERS TIGERS BRONCOS TITANS SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS MCGARITY PROPERTY GROUP | 0447 228 504 keiran mcgarity 028 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS TITANS SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS TITANS SEA EAGLES WARRIORS RAIDERS DRAGONS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS the western weekender • extra time » 46 Friday, March 24, 2023
celebrity tipsters

PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS

PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS

SEA EAGLES WARRIORS

RAIDERS SHARKS

KNIGHTS SHARKS

PANTHERS STORM DOLPHINS COWBOYS

PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS

PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS

SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS WARRIORS

RABBITOHS WARRIORS

EELS TIGERS BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS

PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS

PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS

PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS

RABBITOHS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS WARRIORS

RAIDERS SHARKS

RAIDERS SHARKS

RAIDERS DRAGONS

RAIDERS SHARKS

RAIDERS DRAGONS

RAIDERS SHARKS

RAIDERS SHARKS

TOWNS CRANES | 0487 272 819 kane towns 020 JK WILLIAMS | 4725 3400 leigh hartog 022 BOQ PENRITH | 4723 7650 anthony walker 024 HERTZ | 47316 344 james shillito 024 O’DONOVANS | 0414 254 074 derry o’donovan 024 MACQUARIE COMMERCIAL | 0447 621 886 jacinda boyd 020 BIG SWING GOLF - PENRITH | 4721 1296 stacey mccartney 020 THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998 troy dodds 022 KHP CIVIL | 4773 9275 jeff lemon 022 SYDNEY HELICOPTERS | 9637 4455 mark harold 022 2GB CONTINUOUS CALL TEAM | 131 873 mark levy 022 KEN HALE PLUMBING | 4773 9275 ken hale 024 PARRAMATTA MOTOR GROUP | 0447 517 711 john veitch 022 PROFESSIONALS OUTER WESTERN SYDNEY | 0418 245 683 terry hansen 020 COUNTRY BREWER | 4731 5444 dee barlow 014 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS TIGERS BRONCOS TITANS SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES | 0414 330 651 alex mckenzie 024 PROPERTY CENTRAL | 0434 400 225 cameron faico 022 VISION PAINTING | 0404 459 600 hans bor 016 PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM DOLPHINS TITANS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS DRAGONS CATHOLIC CEMETERIES | 9826 2273 kim riley 020 COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING | 1300 COMLAW daniel mckinnon 020 PRD REAL ESTATE | 0414 620 532 darren latty 022 PANTHERS TIGERS BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS DRAGONS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS WARRIORS RAIDERS SHARKS PANTHERS STORM BRONCOS COWBOYS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS
SHARKS
RAIDERS
« the western weekender • extra time 47 Friday, March 24, 2023

Pick up a copy of the paper

YOU CAN PICK UP THE LATEST COPY OF THE WEEKENDER AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS EACH WEEK:

CADDENS CADDENS NEWS (CADDENS CORNER)

CLEMENTINE’S CAFÉ

WOOLWORTHS

CAMBRIDGE GARDENS

COLES

M c DONALD’S

OVERLANDER HOTEL

CAMBRIDGE PARK

CAMBRIDGE PARK NEWSAGENCY

CELLARBATIONS

FRIENDLY GROCER

CASTLEREAGH

AMPOL SERVICE STATION

CLAREMONT MEADOWS

IGA CLAREMONT MEADOWS

COLYTON

COLYTON CENTRE PHARMACY

COLYTON FRIENDLY GROCER

COLYTON HOTEL

COLYTON NEWSAGENCY

HEWITT STREET TAKEAWAY

CRANEBROOK

ALDI CRANEBROOK

CRANEBROOK COMMUNITY HEALTH

CRANEBROOK VILLAGE

M cDONALD’S

MOTHER EARTH NURSERY PLUS PHARMACY

WOOLWORTHS CRANEBROOK

EMU PLAINS

CHAMBERS CELLARS

LENNOX CENTRE NEWSAGENCY

M c DONALD’S

PENRITH REGIONAL GALLERY

WOOLWORTHS LENNOX VILLAGE

7/11 EMU PLAINS (GREAT WESTERN HIGHWAY)

7/11 EMU PLAINS (OLD BATHURST RD)

EMU HEIGHTS

SUPER SAVE COMPOUNDING CHEMIST

ERSKINE PARK

ASHCROFT’S IGA

ERSKINE PARK CTC

GLENMORE PARK

COLES

MAGS NEWS

M c DONALD’S

MEDI ADVICE PHARMACY

WOOLWORTHS

JAMISONTOWN

ABCOE

ABEL STREET EATERY (HAPPY HARRYS)

BATT STREET TAKE AWAY

GREY GUMS HOTEL

NEW ON YORK TAKEAWAY

PARRABEY GOURMET KITCHEN (PENRITH HOMEMAKER)

SALT CAFE (PENRITH HOMEMAKER)

SHELL SERVICE STATION

THE COFFEE CLUB NEPEAN RIVER

THREE SUGARS CAFÉ

WESTERN WEEKENDER

YORK TAKEAWAY

ZOO FITNESS

7/11 JAMISONTOWN

JORDAN SPRINGS

BROOKS TAVERN

JORDAN SPRINGS NEWSAGENCY

WOOLWORTHS

KEMPS CREEK

CALTEX SERVICE STATION

KEMPS CREEK BOWLING CLUB

KINGSWOOD

BARISTA BAR COFFEE SHOP (NEPEAN PRIVATE HOSPITAL)

COUNTRY BREWER

HALLANI’S

KINGSWOOD HOTEL

KINGSWOOD NEWSAGENCY

KINGSWOOD SMASH REPAIRS

KINGSWOOD SPORTS CLUB

PENRITH GAELS CLUB

RADHE INDIAN GROCERY STORE

VOLUNTEERS DESK NEPEAN HOSPITAL

7/11 KINGSWOOD

LEONAY

EMU SPORTS CLUB

GROW CAFÉ (FORMERLY WILLOW TREE CAFÉ)

LLANDILO

IGA

LONDONDERRY

LONDONDERRY LIQUOR STORE

SHELL X ROADS

LUDDENHAM

AMPOL

AUSTRALIA POST

IGA LUDDENHAM

MINCHINBURY

McDONALD’S

MINCHINBURY FRUIT MARKET

MOUNT DRUITT

WESTFIELD MOUNT DRUITT

MULGOA

GLENMORE HERITAGE GOLF CLUB

MULGOA NEWSAGENCY

MULGOA PHARMACY

NORTH ST MARYS

LUCKY AUSTRALIAN HOTEL

MFC FOOD STORES

ORCHARD HILLS

FLOWER POWER

PENRITH

ALDI

ASTINA

ATMOSPHERE GYM

AUSTRALIAN ARMS

BOREC ROAD TAKEAWAY (VALLEY CAFÉ)

BRISKET BOYS

CAF É FRED

CALTEX COREEN AVENUE

COLES PENRITH (NEPEAN VILLAGE)

COLES (WESTFIELD PENRITH)

CRESCENT MINI MART

HIGH STREET PIES

HOYTS WESTFIELD

JOAN SUTHERLAND ARTS CENTRE

LEMONGROVE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE

LIQUOR STAX PEACHTREE

M cDONALD’S HIGH STREET

M cDONALD’S PANTHERS LEAGUES

M cDONALD’S PEACHTREE

MERCURE HOTEL

MUSEUM OF FIRE

NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE

NEPEAN MOTOR GROUP CAFÉ

NEPEAN ROWING CLUB

NEPEAN VILLAGE COFFEE CLUB

NEPEAN VILLAGE NEWSAGENCY

NEXTRA WESTFIELD

ONE POINT HEALTH

PANTHERS LEAGUES CLUB

PEACHTREE HOTEL

PENRITH BOWLING CLUB

PENRITH CBD CORPORATION

PENRITH CITY COUNCIL

PENRITH CITY LIBRARY

PENRITH GOLF CLUB

PENRITH HOTEL

PENRITH PACEWAY

PENRITH RSL

PENRITH SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTRE

PIONEER TAVERN

RE/MAX

SITTANO’S RESTAURANT

TATTERSALLS HOTEL

THE CHICKEN RUN

THE HERITAGE TERRACE CAFÉ

THE LOG CABIN

WESTFIELD

WORLD GYM

7/11 HENRY STREET

REGENTVILLE

7/11 REGENTVILLE

ROPES CROSSING

COLES

ROPES CROSSING NEWSAGENCY

SILVERDALE

IGA

THE CHEMIST SHOP

SOUTH PENRITH

BUDGET SERVICE STATION

FISH FISH

FRIENDLY GROCER

GROSE’S PHARMACY

SOUTHLANDS NEWSAGENCY

SOUTHLANDS TAKEAWAY

SOUTH PENRITH NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

WOOLWORTHS

ST CLAIR

BLUE CATTLE DOG HOTEL

FOODWORKS

MELVILLE ROAD TAKEAWAY

ST CLAIR LIBRARY

ST CLAIR SHOPPING CENTRE

7/11 ST CLAIR

ST MARYS

ANDREW’S CORNER STORE

AMPOL FOODARY

ASTLEY PHARMACY

CASSANDRA’S ON QUEEN

GUIDO’S HAIR CARE

JAYAM SUPERMARKET

M cDONALD’S ST MARYS SOUTH

MONFARVILLE CORNER STORE

QUEEN ST NEWSAGENCY

ST MARYS BAND CLUB

ST MARYS FISH MARKET

ST MARYS LEAGUES CLUB

ST MARYS LIBRARY

ST MARYS PHARMACY QUEEN ST

ST MARYS PIZZA HUT

ST MARYS RSL

ST MARYS VILLAGE

WAGON WHEEL HOTEL

WALTER’S NEWSAGENCY

THORNTON

PETRAMART

THORNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE

WALLACIA

WALLACIA GOLF CLUB

WALLACIA HOTEL

WALLACIA POST OFFICE

WALLACIA TAKEAWAY

WARRAGAMBA

WARRAGAMBA SPORTS CLUB

WERRINGTON

COLONIAL HOTEL

CROSSROADS CONVENIENCE STORE

DIRANI’S MFC

GEORGE’S CHARCOAL CHICKEN

HENRY SPORTS CLUB

M c DONALD’S

SUPA IGA

THE FOODARY

WERRINGTON NEWSAGENCY

the western weekender » 48 Friday, March 24, 2023 WW48421
Western Property Your complete guide to real estate western Sydney FOR THE HOME OWNER THE HOME SELLER AND THE HOME BUYER 423 Put Our Winning Team to Work For You 9834 FIVEKEYMOMENTSBREAKDOWNHOWTHE GRANDFINALWASWON PAGE ught PANTHER PARTY PLAYERSANDFANSCONTINUETOCELEBRATEPENRI rianTo’oand Pho weekender the western PENRIT EWSPAPE Free P once unstoppable rugbustained past countless along - tality, Premiershipistory the greatest stunningovershadowed from Dylan claimed Clive player hardplayersdefinitiveParramatta.Sunday’s incredible the seasons.competition billed the West almost from Eels their the Mountains. Penrith 18-year collapse Final of down. The Leagues fan - Stadium has over Blacktown, - the west work, taking group starts THE GREATEST Cleary.Images. High PENRITH GYMYOGA OUTDOOR PENRITH GYM REFORMERScan for 10% OFF first order! THE FOOD YOU PETS HAVE BE WAITING FOR! NOW If your favourite location has run out, or if you’d like a new location added, please email distribution@westernweekender.com.au WWW.WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU/GETAPAPER

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.