Extra Time September 29 2023 (Panthers Grand Final Special Edition)

PENRITH EMBRACES THREE-PEAT QUEST

TROY DODDS

Penrith has come alive with colour and excitement this week as the countdown to the NRL Grand Final continues.

The Panthers became just the fifth side to make four consecutive deciders since Grand Finals became mandatory in 1954 when they thrashed the Storm 38-4 in the Preliminary Final last Friday night.

Ivan Cleary's side now has a chance to become the first club since Parramatta in the early 1980s to win three straight Premierships. Standing in their way is the Brisbane Broncos, who have reached their first Grand Final since 2015. Houses and businesses right across the Penrith area have been decorated in Panthers colours this week, while thousands attended an open training session at BlueBet Stadium on Tuesday morning.

A huge convoy of fans will make their way to Accor Stadium on Sunday night, while a live site in the Penrith CBD and events at Panthers Leagues Club are expected to be well attended.

It's been a huge Grand Final Week with festivities in both Penrith and the city, highlighted by the NRL's

Fan Fest event at Circular Quay in the latter part of the week.

“We have had one of the most memorable seasons in recent history," NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.

“This will be a massive Grand Final Week, filled with opportunities for fans, culminating in an exciting set of Grand Final matches on Sunday.”

At Penrith City Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Monday night, outgoing Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the city was behind the Panthers as they chased Premiership glory again.

“Penrith has, and always will be, a true grassroots community club at heart, and that’s why they are so loved by this community,” she said.

This is Penrith's seventh Grand Final appearance.

Panthers winger Brian To’o is mobbed by fans at Tuesday’s open training session.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

the Grand Final

LUCK TO THE MIGHTY PANTHERS FOR THE 2023 NRL GR AND FINAL FROM WESTERN SY DNEY’S BEST SPORTS BA R

the final word v

It is the Grand Final we expected, but the result is much harder to predict.

Penrith and Brisbane both won through to the season decider with convincing victories last weekend, and the ledger is square in terms of clashes between the two sides this year.

The Panthers' victory over the Storm was relentless and first class: another sensational defensive effort, and a terrific performance from Nathan Cleary, who has controlled this Finals series superbly.

Brisbane were great against the Warriors, though nerves clearly played a part in their opening 20 or so minutes. It'll be interesting to see if that emerges in the game on Sunday. For me this is a 50/50 game – I say that with the head, even if the heart says Penrith all the way.

If there is one team that could counter the way Penrith play, it's Brisbane. There is no doubt they will throw the ball around a lot and their offloading game will be a key to this contest. If there has been a chink in Penrith's armour at times this year, it has been when sides play ad-lib footy against them.

The Broncos topped the competition in line breaks this season, and actually scored more tries than any other side in the competition.

We know where Penrith win games though: defence. Penrith’s stunning defensive record this season, conceding just 312 points compared to Brisbane’s 425, is the difference between them and the rest of the competition. And it can’t be brushed aside here – if anything, the Panthers will be more switched on in a Grand Final.

They’re not suddenly going to concede four

or five tries in a game, which will mean Brisbane must find a way to match their defensive resolve.

Like most Grand Finals, an individual will be the shining light here and likely prove the difference.

Could it be Reece Walsh, who has lit up the competition this year and has a swagger about him that is infectious?

Or Adam Reynolds, who knows what it takes to win Premierships and would like nothing better than to grab a little bit of revenge on Penrith after that 2021 Grand Final loss when he was with the Rabbitohs?

On the Penrith side of the ledger, could Dylan Edwards produce another Clive Churchill Medal winning performance at the back, or will Brian To'o continue his terrific try scoring run?

Will Isaah Yeo, already one of the game's best

lock forwards, stamp his mark on his game and enter Grand Final folklore?

Grand Finals are won as much in the preparation as they are the 80 minutes on the field. We saw last year how Parramatta’s failure to treat the Grand Final with the respect it deserved backfired.

Kevin Walters knows a thing or two about Grand Finals so I suspect Brisbane’s preparation will be first class, but there is no doubt that Penrith have an advantage given they’ve done all this before. It’s second nature, and for them it’s all based in Sydney.

I believe this will be a Grand Final for the ages. A low scoring slug fest, with the winner potentially decided beyond the 80th minute. Strap yourselves in – this is going to be one we talk about for a long time.

Tip: Panthers by 4.

Isaah Yeo in action in the Preliminary Final.

Photo: NRL Images.

Dylan Edwards

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Sunia Turuva

Izack Tago

Stephen Crichton

Brian To’o

Jarome Luai

Nathan Cleary

Moses Leota

Mitch Kenny

James Fisher-Harris

Scott Sorensen

Liam Martin

Isaah Yeo

Jack Cogger

Lindsay Smith

Spencer Leniu

Luke Garner

Reece Walsh

Jesse Arthars

Kotoni Staggs

Herbie Farnworth

Selwyn Cobbo

Ezra Mam

Adam Reynolds

Thomas Flegler

Billy Walters

Payne Haas

Kurt Capewell

Jordan Riki

Patrick Carrigan

Tyson Smoothy

Brendan Piakura

Kobe Hetherington

Keenan Palasia

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SUNDAY

getting to the big game

By car: You must pre-book parking via the Sydney Olympic Park website, with all car parks expected to be booked out prior to game day on Sunday.

By train: Express and limited-stop trains to Olympic Park will run regularly from Central and Western Line stations to get you to game, with frequent return services running after the match to get you home. From Olympic Park station, the stadium is a short 10-minute walk away.

match day schedule

Buses: Major Event Buses will run on all nine routes to Olympic Park, services start running between 1.35pm and 2.15pm approximately, depending on the route. Frequent services will run after full-time to get you home. Meanwhile, Panthers is running buses from the club to Accor Stadium on game day. Tickets can be purchased at the Panther Shop at the Leagues Club.

Public transport is included for free in all game day tickets.

weekender game day playlist

Looking to get the tunes pumping over the weekend as you prepare for the Grand Final on Sunday night?

The Weekender has put together the ultimate Grand Final Day Playlist, featuring five and a half hours of pump-up music.

Every footy fan and Panthers supporter will appreciate the music selection, ranging from AC/DC classics to some Tina Turner and Jimmy Barnes magic.

You’ll find the playlist on Spotify by searching ‘Western Weekender 2023 Grand Final Day Playlist’ or follow this link: https://spoti. fi/46t2zjG.

$ the betting

On Wednesday, SportsBet had Penrith as $1.64 favourites to win the Grand Final against Brisbane on Sunday night, with the Broncos at $2.27.

In margin betting, a Penrith victory by 1-12 was at $2.65, while 13+ was $3.50. Brisbane winning 1-12 was at $3.25 while 13+ was the outsider of the field at $5.80. The line is set at 3.5, with the bookies expecting a close encounter.

SportsBet believes Brian To’o will continue his Finals try scoring run, posting him at $1.90 in the Anytime Tryscorer market. He’s also the favourite in the first tryscorer market at $8.00, ahead of Sunia Turuva ($10.00) and Selwyn Cobbo ($10.00).

Punters are reminded to gamble responsibly when it comes to the Grand Final this Sunday.

the entertainment

A very special perfor- mance from ‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical’ will headline the enter- tainment at this year’s Grand Final.

Marking 30 years since Tina Turner’s iconic performance at the 1993 Grand Final and celebrating her unique association with the game, the cast of the smash hit musi- cal is bringing Turner’s music back to rugby league’s biggest stage.

The entertainment

line-up on Grand Final day also includes two performances from Australian rock band, King Sting- ray.

The fromfive-piece the

Northern Territory will deliver the NRLW Grand Final pre-game show before returning to the stage in the build up to the NRL Grand

1.00pm Gates Open

1.20pm

3.55pm

6.30pm

7.30pm

9.30pm Post-match presentation

PENRITH LIVE SITE

Penrith Council is encouraging fans to come along to the family-friendly live site at The Mondo. From 5pm on Sunday, October 1 in The Mondo, fans will be able to grab a spot to cheer on the Panthers as they ready themselves for kick off at 7.30pm.

The site has a limited capacity with no reserved seating. There will be food trucks, entertainment, and face painting for the kids at the alcohol-free event.

For more details on this Sunday’s live site, go to: bGVG.https://bit.ly/3PS-

the coverage

Channel Nine will begin Grand Final day with coverage on ‘Today’ in the morning, followed by ‘Sports Sunday’ at 10am and ‘The Sunday Footy Show’ at 11am. Coverage from Accor Stadium begins at 1pm with a full broadcast of State Championship and NRLW Grand Finals, followed by the NRL Grand Final at 7.30pm. Mat Thompson will call his second season decider.

Fox League will broadcast the State Championship and NRLW Grand Finals, but does not have the rights to broadcast the NRL Grand Final leave. It will broadcast

replays with its own commentary.

On radio, 2GB will broadcast from 1pm live from Accor Stadium and will call all three Grand Finals, including the NRL decider, with the team headed up by Ray Hadley.

SEN 1170 will also begin broadcasting from 1pm, calling all three games with NRL coverage beginning at 6pm. Triple M and ABC 702 will also broadcast live. For those overseas, a host of international broadcast partners will show the game live. Visit www.nrl.com for more details.

watch the game at panthers leagues club

Panthers will host a Grand Final Super Screen event in The Backyard.

Tickets are $30 for members and $35 for non-members. Tickets include exclusive access to the brand new Backyard Bar, and one complimentary drink.

The club is also holding an event in the Evan Thea-

tre, which includes plenty of pre-game fun.

The event is reserved table seating with a prime view of the action on a massive screen, 2.5 hours of beverage service, finger foods, lucky door prizes and entertainment from Tahir.

Tickets to that event are $135 for members or $140

for non-members and the action begins at 5pm. Both events can be booked online on the Panthers website. For those not looking for a ticketed event, the club’s usual sports bars and big screens will be showing every bit of the action between the Panthers and Broncos.

Channel Nine’s Danika Mason and Johnathan Thurston.

CLEARY TO BECOME ONE OF THE GREATS

TROY DODDS

Just a few short years ago, Ivan Cleary’s career as a coach was at risk of being remembered for all the wrong reasons.

While he’ll tell you his 369-game run without a Premiership never really weighed on his mind, there can be no doubt the relief that came with game 370 – Penrith’s 2021 Grand Final over Souths – was immense.

That night at Suncorp Stadium, Cleary became the first coach to win a Premiership having coached more than 250 games without one. And he ridded himself of any comparisons to Brian Smith – considered by many as the best coach to never win an NRL title.

More history may get written on Sunday. No coach has won three straight Premierships in the NRL era. Cleary is already in rare air having guided his side to four straight Grand Finals, but a three-peat would be something else.

“It’s hard to explain really, I don’t know if it’s really hit me yet,” Cleary said.

“It’s hard to make any Grand Final so I’m trying to think along those lines at the moment rather than the rest, because the rest... there’s so

many people involved, people who aren’t even at our club anymore, but they’ve had such an input into players and staff and coaches.”

Outgoing Penrith centre Stephen Crichton says the secret to Cleary’s success is that he encourages the players to have fun.

the referee GEE LOCKED IN FOR DECIDER

Adam Gee will referee his first NRL Grand Final after being handed the whistle for Sunday night’s showdown between Penrith and Brisbane.

Chris Sutton and David Munro will be touch judges for the decider, while Ashley Klein will be the Bunker Review Official.

The NRL also announced that Belinda Sharpe has been appointed to referee the NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership Grand Final between the Newcastle Knights and Gold Coast Titans. Rochelle Tamarua and Mitch Currie will be touch judges for the NRLW encounter, while Kasey Badger will be Bunker Review Official.

NRL Executive General Manager – Elite Competitions Graham Annesley congratulated all match officials on their appointments.

“Adam thoroughly deserves his appoint ment to the Grand Final,” he said.

“He has been a standout Match Official this season and been incredibly consistent in 2023. Adam has refereed 236 matches, and his calm demeanour and strong work ethic are testament to that experience.

“We’re in the fortunate position to have a number of referees who have the ability to officiate the Grand Final but it’s a competitive process and Adam is the best referee for the job based on performances this year and throughout the Finals Series.”

NRL General Manager Elite Officiating Jared Maxwell said: “All of our match officials should be congratulated for their strong performances over the course of the season. The match officials work very diligently through a season and this privilege is reward for all the hard work and dedication.”

Gee’s appointment comes following a number of errors from more senior referees in recent weeks.

“He’s always told us boys to always have fun and that’s the kind of humour he has as well to cheer the boys up. No matter the result, it’s

always about having fun and process driven as well,” he said.

“He’s taught me to be present and always have fun with your best mates. This is the goal we’ve dreamed of back in school and now to be finally here, there’s no point in stressing. It’s definitely about having fun and lapping up these moments as well. We probably won’t get that opportunity [again], you never know, but I’m pretty keen.”

Lindsay Smith is preparing for his first Grand Final on Sunday and says Cleary has been a key part of his breakout season.

“He’s just given me a lot of confidence to believe in myself and my ability and just to go out there and do my job,” he said.

“He’s unreal. A lot of things, a lot of little quotes that he says, whether that be pre-game or whenever that have resonated with myself this year. He gives you the confidence to go out there and play your footy and just enjoy it.”

Should he guide Penrith to a threepeat on Sunday night with a win over the Broncos, there is no question Cleary enters the conversation as one of the greatest coaches of the modern era.

– Additional reporting by Nathan Taylor

Ivan Cleary arrives at Accor Stadium last Friday night. Photo: NRL Images.

Adam Gee will referee the Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

grand final bits & pieces

corporate win

While the AFL Grand Final continues to draw larger crowds to the stadium, the corporate world tells a different story.

New flight, ground transport, and hotel booking data has revealed that this year, the NRL Grand Final is capturing the attention of more corporate fans than the AFL by a good margin.

The finding comes from Corporate Traveller (corporatetraveller.com.au), the flagship SME division of Flight Centre Travel Group.

Corporate Traveller data has revealed the NRL Grand Final is attracting eight per cent more corporate fans to the stands than the AFL Grand Final – a figure that is likely to grow to around 14 per cent based on last year’s data.

ALBO SHOWS DESIGN SKILLS

PRIME MINISTER BEHIND PREMIERSHIP RINGS

Affinity Diamonds has announced the 2023 NRL Grand Final Rings have been designed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Each year, Founder and CEO of Affinity Diamonds, Sam Rahme, gives the

DON’T RISK TICKET SCAMS

NSW Fair Trading has urged fans to only buy tickets through official providers, and not risk the second hand market.

In NSW, it is against the law to resell a ticket for more than 10 per cent of the original ticket price, including booking fees and ticket delivery.

Consumers who believe they have been scammed can lodge a complaint with NSW Fair Trading online or by calling 13 32 20.

honour of designing the ring to a prominent Australian.

Over the years, the guest designers have included Ray Warren, Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and Johnathan Thurston.

“As a rugby league fan, it truly is an honour to work with Affinity Diamonds to design these incredibly important rings for the winners of the men’s and women’s NRL Grand Final,” Albanese said.

“The design I have chosen gives a nod to our Australian national flower, the Golden Wattle and includes yellow sapphires. This is the first

time these stones have been used and I know the players will wear these rings with pride.”

Since 2015, Affinity Diamonds has been designing and producing the iconic NRL Premiership rings and medals.

“Prime Minister Albanese has taken on the design task with great enthusiasm, and we are incredibly proud to work with him on this project,” Rahme said on Wednesday.

“The design he has chosen is truly unique.”

The rings will be presented to the winning players.

!HARBOUR LAUNCH CENTRE

STAGE

The NRL officially launched Grand Final Week on the foreshore of the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday evening.

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo (pictured) launched an exciting week of events by announcing that the Grand Final at Accor Stadium had sold out.

“Thank you to the passionate fans in rugby league. We have had record support from fans all season and the Grand Final sell-out is no surprise,” Abdo said.

“We have the two best teams in both the NRL and NRLW Telstra Premierships competing to make history.

We also have New South Wales teams against Queensland teams across all three Grand Finals which adds a unique storyline to the 2023 Grand Final Day.”

Fan Fast at Circular Quay kicked off on Wednesday, with the NRL Grand Final teams appearing on Thursday.

Fan Fast will continue today (Friday, September 29) with a focus on the NRLW.

catch and keep on sunday!

Westpac is bringing the game-changing ‘Catch & Keep’ concept to the NRL and NRLW Grand Final stage for the first time ever.

If the match ball goes into the crowd at either the men’s or women’s 2023 Grand Final, the lucky punter who catches it, gets to keep it!

Westpac introduced the concept for Game 3 of this year’s State of Origin series, and is now expanding it to the Grand Final.

Corporate Traveller forecasts that the NRL Grand Final will attract a higher proportion of Melbourne corporates than the Melbourne game will attract Sydney corporates.

FOOTY TOUR

JUNIOR CLINIC IN PENRITH ON FRIDAY

The NRL Telstra Footy Country Tour will conclude its four-week journey around Australia’s footy heartland when it arrives in Penrith for its final stop this Friday, September 29.

Having clocked just over 9,500 kilometres as it ventured throughout footy country across regional Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, the tour will descend on the territory of the reigning Premiers as the Penrith Panthers prepare to face off against the Brisbane Broncos at Accor Stadium this Sunday night.

Penrith Waratahs Junior Rugby League Club will play host for the final stop of the tour as Dolphins NRL star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow hosts a holiday clinic for Penrith’s aspiring league participants under the watchful eye of the greatest prizes in football: the Provan-Summons trophy and NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership trophy.

FANS GRAB NEW MERCH

The Panthers released a limited edition Grand Final shirt ahead of the big game on Sunday (pictured), with only a small amount of stock now remaining.

You can try your luck at the Panther Shop at Panthers Leagues Club, or online at www. penrithpanthers.com.au, if you’re still after a shirt.

A separate Grand Final shirt is also available through Peter Wynn’s Score, with stock available both online and at the Parramatta shop.

A Premiers shirt is expected to be available soon after full-time should the Panthers win on Sunday night.

“Panthers win by 20”

BUSINESSES SHOW THEIR PENRITH PRIDE

Businesses in Penrith have been getting behind the mighty Panthers this week.

From arcades to tattoo shops, pharmacies, real estate agencies and childcare centres, Penrith colours have been displayed with pride ahead of Sunday’s NRL Grand Final. Balloons, streamers, posters and jerseys have been spotted right across the local area, as businesses embrace the season decider between Penrith and Brisbane.

It’s been tough to find any support for the Broncos on the streets of Penrith.

A MILESTONE, AND A TEARY GOODBYE

While the St Clair Comets junior would love one more to add his highlight reel before his time at Penrith is over, he knows those moments can’t always be planned.

It’s been an emotional week for outgoing Panther Stephen Crichton.

Not only will he play his final game in Penrith colours on Sunday night, but he will be doing it in a Grand Final in what will be his 100th NRL game.

It’s certainly a unique predicament the 23-year-old finds himself in, but one he wouldn’t trade for the world.

As far as blessed players go, Crichton is one of them.

In 100 games of first grade rugby league, Crichton would’ve featured in four Grand Finals. A unique achievement – unless you’re a Panther – in the modern game.

“I’m feeling excited! I feel grateful to be at a club that works hard to get to where it’s at right now,” Crichton told the Weekender

“That was the goal at the start of the year, to give ourselves the chance to be here and, now that we are here, it’s pretty exciting and I’m so keen to go.”

Crichton has been part of so many of Penrith’s big moments over recent years, with his Grand Final-winning intercept in 2021 at the top of the pile.

“I don’t dream of them but it just comes down to our training, and the way we train on the field is what comes out on the field,” he said.

“I’m pretty excited to get back to training tomorrow and build that connection with the boys and be ready to go.”

Crichton won’t be the only Panther playing with his teammates for the final time on Sunday, with good mate Spencer Leniu and Knights-bound half Jack Cogger also departing at full-time.

The NSW Blues centre said he’ll miss just about everything at Penrith, but most of all the passionate fans who cheered him for a century of games from the packed stands of BlueBet Stadium.

“I’ll miss the crowd and the culture that Ivan’s built here,” Crichton said.

“The players make training so fun. No matter if the day is hard, the boys make it fun.

“But I’ll miss our fans the most. They are at our home games, at our away games, cheering us on and pushing us to the end. I definitely wouldn’t be here without them and I’m pretty keen for the weekend.”

Panthers centre Stephen Crichton looking relaxed on Tuesday.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

EXPERIENCE COUNTS ON BIGGEST DAY

While Luai admits it’s always sad to leave his family behind, he very much likes the camp concept for big games like this.

On Saturday afternoon, Jarome Luai will kiss his partner and three children goodbye before, as he describes it, he goes to war alongside his teammates.

The battle between the NRL’s two best teams –Penrith and Brisbane – will be one for the ages and the fans, along with the players themselves, are salivating ahead of Sunday’s match-up.

This will be Luai’s fourth consecutive Grand Final, with the build-up very different for all four of them.

In 2020, the pandemic was in full swing while in 2021, the team were isolated from the rest of the world in Queensland. Last season, things turned to normality somewhat, while this year excitement is at fever pitch like never before.

Speaking with the Weekender on Tuesday, Luai said Grand Final Day flies by so fast.

“It’s obviously a night game but it tends to go faster than the usual night games, which is probably a good thing because you are so nervous thinking about outcomes and results,” he said.

“You just have to remind yourself of the job at hand and what you need to do to get there and just keep reminding yourself to stay in the present and soak in every moment.”

Like they did for last week’s Preliminary Final against the Storm, the Panthers will go into camp on Saturday and stay overnight in a hotel close to Sydney Olympic Park.

The mini-camp is designed to bring players together, free from distractions at home, or anything else that might take their mind away from the job.

“I think it’s a cool thing… you are going to war. It’s sort of that last goodbye to your family before you see them after the game,” he said.

“I think it’s a pretty cool strategy to do that and narrow your focus and be around the boys leading into the game.

“My partner and I will send a few texts on game day and the kids love Facetime. I miss my kids every night that I leave them, so it’s one more night away and then I’ll be home for a while.”

After getting through his first game back from a dislocated shoulder unscathed last week, Luai said it’s all systems go for this Sunday’s decider against the Broncos.

The 26-year-old said he’s grateful for his coach for believing in him and his recovery.

“I was grateful that Iv gave me that opportunity to put myself in the driver’s seat and I was able to pull through – God’s will – and play alright, I guess,” he said.

“I pulled up really well and we got the job done.”

While the punters can’t split the Panthers and Broncos ahead of this weekend’s match, Luai agreed that it is the Grand Final that everyone wanted and that Brisbane could perhaps be Penrith’s biggest challenge of the coveted three-peat so far.

“Souths were a gun team. Parra beat us twice that year. They’re obviously a different challenge but the way the Broncos have been playing, they’re definitely a threat and we’re going to have to be at our best to beat them,” he said.

Jarome Luai is all smiles ahead of his fourth Grand Final.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

SMITH SOAKS UP HIS FIRST DECIDER

While many of his teammates will be playing in their fourth Grand Final this weekend, Lindsay Smith will be running out in his first.

The 23-year-old couldn’t contain his excitement when the Weekender caught up with him on Tuesday afternoon following an Open Training Session that saw thousands of Panthers fans turn out to watch their team go through their paces ahead of Sunday’s big game.

“It’s obviously exciting,” he said.

“After the game against Melbourne, all I could think about was enjoying the week. These don’t come around in everyone’s career very often, so I’m just trying to enjoy it and really take it all in this week.”

After playing a handful of games since debuting in 2021, Smith enjoyed a breakout year this season, playing 22 games in a starring role off the bench.

The St Marys junior said it’s always been his dream to play on rugby league’s grandest day in front of his family and friends.

“You dream about playing on the big stage – whether it’s the NRL or State of Origin – you dream about it since you were a kid,” Smith said.

“Playing in front of a full house on Sunday at Accor Stadium, it’s definitely something I’ve thought about and dreamt about.

“I have a few people going on Sunday – family, parents, brothers, my partner and her family – it will be pretty exciting and special.”

If Smith and his Panthers teammates are able to secure the NRL’s biggest prize on Sunday, it’ll cap off a remarkable month for the man they call “Larry”.

Not only did Smith and his partner announce they were expecting their first baby in the coming months, but it was also confirmed that he would be remaining a Panther until the end of 2026.

“It’s been a good couple of weeks, with the baby announcement and the re-signing,” he said.

“It’s pretty exciting knowing that I’ll be here for another couple of years and obviously I’ve known about the baby for a while.

“It’s been cool to see some of the messages and well wishes that I’ve received.”

Lindsay Smith is excited ahead of his first Grand Final on Sunday.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

ONE BANNER’S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY

This is the story of a simple banner created by a fanatical Panthers supporter in September 1991 that has survived 32 years, countless home games, a couple of Grand Finals and a generational hand-medown.

Frank and Ann Neumann made the ‘Purr-fect Panthers’ banner ahead of Penrith’s Major Semi Final clash with North Sydney at the Sydney Football Stadium in 1991. The Panthers won 16-14 that day and Frank and Ann were among the 38,635 in attendance – along with the sign.

“My Dad, who grew up in St Marys, has attended home games since the inception of the club, going to games as a kid in 1967,” said Eric Neumann, Frank and Ann’s son and now bearer of the banner.

“In 1996 when I was born in Jamison Private Hospital he snuck off to watch Penrith play Newcastle over the road!”

The Panthers lost 24-22 that day, by the way. Tough times.

But back to the banner.

“Mum did the sewing and dad did the painting,” Eric said.

“Dad wanted to make something that stood out at the game and stood the test of time.”

And stand the test of time it has. The ‘Purrfect Panthers’ banner has been to more Penrith games that one could count over the last 32 years, regularly appearing on TV and attracting plenty of attention.

In a proud father-son moment, Eric was given custody of the banner in 2014.

“The banner got passed to me in 2014 when I got a licence, a job and graduated high school and could buy my own membership,” said Eric, who graduated from St Dominic’s College, where Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary was a year below him.

“Also when I was big enough to hold the banner by myself!

“I started taking the banner to most games but the game I really remember holding the banner and feeling like the torch had been passed was the Finals game at the SFS against the Roosters where Dallin Watene-Zelezniak flicked a pass from in touch, Jamie Soward got a sideline conversion and then slotted the field

goal. After that game it was never said but that was the moment the banner was really mine.”

Eric and Frank are still season ticket holders in The Den. But with Eric relocating to Tamworth earlier this year, things have gone full circle –with Frank back in charge of the sign.

“Dad has still been going to every home game and he has taken the banner,” Eric said.

“Now I’m settled here I intend to attend a few more home games next year. My ticket doesn’t go to waste as my friends are always asking to use my ticket to the game to support the team if I’m not available to go.”

Eric will be back holding the banner with pride at Accor Stadium this Sunday for the Grand Final – and it may just be time for the next generation to be involved too.

“I’ll be able to open the banner and show everyone at Accor Stadium that pride of the Penrith area to encourage our team,” he said.

“Also I’ll be able to share the banner with my daughter as it’s her first Grand Final and share the banner through another generation.”

For Eric, the banner is more than a piece of material. It remains his personal connection to a club that has been such an integral part of his life.

“To me the sign having been made in 1991 makes me feel like it is a part of the Panthers. It has seen many players and when I hold it up it feels like I’ve got years of Panthers history roaring as we all celebrate together,” he said.

“There is sense of pride that fills me when I’m able to get it out.”

The Neumann family with the banner in 2003.

The banner on debut in 1991 with the Neumann family.

The banner spotted at the Finals clash against the Warriors. Photo: NRL Images.

PROUD FAMILIES RIDE EVERY MOMENT

In the lead-up to the NRL Grand Final, you wouldn’t blame people for giving all their attention to the coaching staff and players who’ll be leaving it all out on the field. But, for the ones who drove them to training, cut up oranges and washed jerseys all those years ago, it’s on another level.

According to Maxine Martin, being known as ‘Liam Martin’s mum’ has become the norm –though it has helped her to gain popularity with her students.

“I’ve gotten used to it, and I teach, so some of that gives you a bit of a ‘tick’,” Maxine told the Weekender

“Liam is just Liam, and our family just loves getting together and being a part of it. I’m so glad Liam says he enjoys us being there.”

Before COVID, Maxine would drop everything to be there at every home and away game, no matter how far. Although she said she doesn’t travel as much anymore, the break has made coming to Sydney even more special throughout the 2023 season.

“I think COVID’s given us a real sense of appreciation for these moments, because those couple of years were very challenging for me, because I think football is my hobby!” she said.

“It gives you a sense that you need to be grateful, because we’ve got this opportunity, and we’re able to be a part of it.”

High on Maxine’s list of game day highlights is being there with the families and friends of

the other players – a group which she says has become a community.

“I love being with the families that are there, the mums and dads of the boys, and now their partners that we’re starting to get to know,” she said.

“It certainly feels like a community, and to see the energy that’s there now at the ground, it’s what galvanises people, it’s that thread, sometimes, that’s needed. I guess success helps, but to see the number that are now there, and the excitement and joy that it brings, because that’s what it brings for me, is just wonderful to be a part of.”

This Sunday, Maxine will be heading to Accor

Stadium with a pack of her own.

“I’ve got the family coming, and the extended family,” she said.

“The logistics of all of this sometimes becomes the challenge, but we’re all going to be there! We all get together, and that’s the fun bit.”

Despite acknowledging that this year will likely be a tougher game for the boys than their previous two Grand Final victories, she said she’s not going to be a nervous viewer, instead opting to take in the incredible atmosphere.

“I always think anything can happen – it’s the bounce of the ball, the football gods play a part, all of those factors – but I just get excited for the game,” Maxine said.

“Some games go incredibly quickly, some games aren’t as quick, but I think it’ll be a really quick Grand Final because it’ll be so intense.”

But, of course, Maxine sees a three-peat in the Panthers’ future, with hopes she’ll be able to get a photo with her son and the premiership trophy for the very first time.

“A three-peat would be incredible,” she said.

“I spoke to some parents about it last week, and I said we don’t ever take it for granted, because you’re part of it, and I think if you can step out and reflect on it, it’s incredible.

“I think a three-peat would be a reflection of how hard these boys work, because they’re incredibly hard-working.”

Liam Martin with his niece and nephew.

Liam Martin and his 90-year-old grandfather. Liam and Maxine at BlueBet Stadium earlier in his career.

CREATING A DYNASTY: FORMER STARS

current Panthers assistant coach) winning together now is pretty special. They both tried to help me, even though I didn’t want to be helped at the time.”

With Penrith on the brink of rugby league immortality, three Panthers greats have shed light on what it was like to be part of this memorable dynasty from the very beginning…

“I played in Nathan Cleary’s first game, which was also my last” – Jamie Soward.

Former Penrith five-eighth Jamie Soward rode the highs and lows during his three-year stint at the Panthers between 2014 and 2016. From miracle field goals in Qualifying Finals to being dropped to reserve grade and later released mid-way through his playing contract, Soward was a polarising figure at Penrith at times.

And while the now 38-year-old NRLW coach has been retired from the game for seven years, he still looks back on his time at Panthers fondly and remembers being there for the embryonic stages of the dynasty.

“I still tell people that want to listen to me, that I played in Nathan Cleary’s first game, which was also my last in the NRL. I saw guys like Jarome and Dylan come through the system,” Soward told the Weekender

“The way that they play their footy is so cool to watch. The precision and how they know each other’s games. If you go out there, you instantly become a better player, which I think is the ultimate credit to Ivan and people like Jim Jones (recruitment officer).”

Ivan Cleary was Soward’s coach at the Panthers for two years before he was moved on by Phil Gould at the end of the 2015 season for famously being “too tired”.

After the Panthers reached the Preliminary Finals in 2014, things took a turn a year later with Soward – Penrith’s star half – dealing with injury and personal issues, while Cleary was

unable to get his troops back to the Finals after such a sensational, yet surprising, season the year prior.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for Ivan,” Soward said.

“Whatever happened with me and him in ’15, I wasn’t the best version of myself… I was going through some stuff.

“To see him and Wal (Peter Wallace and

Now a member of the Dragons coaching staff, Soward said he admires the way his former club goes about their business even though it frustrates him as a competitor against them.

“I have a lot of respect and admiration for what they’ve done in the last couple of years. The way that Nathan and Isaah have led the program with such distinction, they have a real understanding of how each other plays,” he said.

“If I’m talking as a former player, it’s awesome to watch. If I’m talking as someone who is competing against them, it’s really frustrating.

“However, it is really cool to see it all unfolding to a point where they may be the greatest team ever. I mean, they probably already are.”

“I’m grateful to have experienced it for a short amount of time” – James Tamou.

Penrith’s 2020 Grand Final captain James Tamou always believed his former club were on the verge of greatness.

Tamou captained Penrith for two seasons and led them to their first Grand Final since 2003.

While Penrith were outclassed by the much more experienced Melbourne Storm back in 2020, Tamou always had a sense that they’d be back on the NRL’s grandest day again.

“I remember doing a speech to the playing group after the 2020 Grand Final and I said, ‘what you guys have got going on is something special, you guys will be here for a very long

Jamie Soward was a star during his short stay at the Panthers. Photo: NRL Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

KNEW SOMETHING BIG WAS BUILDING

“Part of me was gutted that I didn’t win at Souths, but I was torn because, at the same time, I was happy to see the boys win it. I was at Penrith for so long, it’s just natural to feel that way,” Mansour told the Weekender The winger spent nearly a decade at the foot of the Mountains, debuting in 2012 and remaining at the club until the end of the 2020 season.

“I always believed in where the club was going and that’s why I kept re-signing with the club,” Mansour said.

“Everyone made fun of Gus’ five-year plan but he had a dream and a belief that the club was going somewhere special and I was always on board with that.

“To see where the boys are at now, obviously I’d love to be involved in it, but to be honest I’m happy because this is what I envisioned the club to be, and this is what I was striving for.”

Mansour said the COVID-affected 2020 season – his last at the club – was one he’ll never forget. The Panthers went on an historic win streak that year before reaching the Grand ultimately losing to the Melbourne Storm.

time. I’ll be watching from afar,” Tamou told the Weekender

“It’s one of those things where you just knew.”

After departing the Panthers following the 2020 decider, Tamou spent two years at the Wests Tigers before finishing his career back at his beloved North Queensland Cowboys this season.

Tamou said it was always fascinating to hear how other teams and players perceived the back-to-back Premiers once he left.

“Other teams looked up to Penrith, they saw them as the pinnacle,” he said.

“Penrith have created such a strong identity around the NRL that other teams look at them and think, ‘we’ve got to be at our best against them’.

“Even players around the competition ask me what James Fisher-Harris is like or what Nathan Cleary is like. I used to get that about Johnathan Thurston.”

After 307 NRL games including one Premiership with the Cowboys, Tamou announced his retirement from the game recently. On Sunday, he’ll be at Accor Stadium as part of the retiring players’ parade.

While he was only coached by him for two

seasons, Tamou said he’ll be forever indebted to Panthers coach Ivan Cleary and believes he’s the catalyst for Penrith’s recent success.

“This all started from Ivan, it definitely started from Ivan. He’s got this ability where he knows who’s bought into a team and who hasn’t,” he said.

“I’ve learned so much from Ivan, like when you recruit, you recruit from character. He would rather recruit someone on character than on talent and would rather teach the skill later on.

“That’s where I learned that from, and every single one of those boys that he’s got under him are all team first – whatever the team needs first, that’s what they are willing to do.

“To experience that and learn from that, it’s been a pleasure and a pleasure to watch.”

“If you cut my chest open, you’ll see a Panther engraved on my heart” – Josh Mansour.

Even though he was a member of the Rabbitohs at the time, Josh Mansour couldn’t help but smile when the Panthers – a club he spent nine years at – beat South Sydney on Grand Final Day 2021.

the front office but, despite all the chop and change, his confidence in the club and its ability to be a powerhouse one day never wavered.

“I feel like that 2020 season really set the foundation for this amazing run they are going on at the moment,” Mansour said.

“I was with the club for nine seasons and the group I was with in that 2020 year was really special. Everyone was on the same page, they really wanted to make something great, make something special, a legacy and we drew a lot of inspiration from big sporting clubs like the New England Patriots and we even took a leaf out of the Melbourne Storm’s book and how they created their own legacy.

“I feel like that’s what the Panthers are doing now.”

While part of Mansour wishes he was still at Penrith and enjoying everything they’ve achieved so far, he’s just grateful he was there at all and nothing will make him happier than seeing them achieve an historic three-peat on Sunday night.

“Close friends say, I could’ve played a few more years and been part of this amazing run but it wasn’t my time,” Mansour said.

“In saying that, I’m a fan, I’m an ex-Panther and if you cut my chest open you’ll see a Panther engraved on my heart – that’s the honest truth.

“The biggest thing for Penrith is, you can’t break that team. They are so tight; they are like brothers and culture trumps talent, and I feel Penrith have that in spades.”

Josh Mansour will be remembered as a Panther forever. Photo: NRL Images.

Josh Mansour and Jamie Soward celebrate a remarkable Finals victory in 2014. Photo: NRL Images.

James Tamou captained the Panthers to the 2020 Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

the road to the big dance

ROUND 1

ROUND 2

ROUND 4

ROUND 5

Penrith’s season begins with a shock 13-12 loss to Brisbane on a wet night at BlueBet Stadium.

Stephen Crichton and Soni Luke score for the Panthers.

Penrith withstand a late South Sydney comeback to record their first win of the year, a 16-10 victory at BlueBet Stadium in front of almost 17,000 fans.

ROUND 6 ROUND 7

Nathan Cleary kicks an inspiring two-point field goal to force golden point against the Eels, but Parramatta sneak home 17-16 in a Thursday night thriller.

The Panthers go wild in the nation’s capital, thrashing the Raiders 53-12. Sunia Turuva and Izack Tago both grab doubles in the huge win.

ROUND 8 ROUND 9

Penrith’s season is suddenly at a tipping point after the Wests Tigers produce the upset of the season in Bathurst, winning 12-8 in atrocious conditions.

ROUND 10 ROUND 11

ROUND 12

ROUND 14

Penrith bounce back from a shock loss to the Tigers to beat the Warriors 18-6 at Magic Round. A late Spencer Leniu try seals the victory.

More than 20,000 fans pack into BlueBet Stadium to watch Penrith dismantle the Roosters, winning 48-4 in an eight-tries-toone romp.

Penrith avenge the Round 1 defeat to Brisbane with a 15-4 victory at Suncorp Stadium, with Nathan Cleary producing a stellar individual performance.

The BlueBet Stadium crowd is stunned when Nathan Cleary suffers a serious hamstring injury. The Panthers push on to beat the Dragons 26-18.

Dylan Edwards scores four tries, including a first half hat-trick, as Penrith thrash Manly 44-12 in front of more than 20,000 fans at BlueBet Stadium.

Two Nathan Cleary field goals ensure Penrith get home 16-15 against Newcastle in a scrappy game at McDonald Jones Stadium.

South Sydney storm home to beat Penrith 20-18 at Accor Stadium, with the Rabbitohs suddenly emerging from the game as Premiership favourites.

ROUND 15

ROUND 16

ROUND 17 ROUND 18

No Nathan Cleary, no worries. The Panthers make light work of the Roosters at Allianz Stadium, recording an impressive 30-6 victory.

Without their Origin stars, the Panthers hold their own against the Cowboys in Townsville, but eventually go down 27-23 in Golden Point.

Penrith prove too good for Newcastle, recording an important 20-12 victory as the busy representative period rolls on.

ROUND 20 ROUND 21 ROUND 22

A relentless Melbourne go 12-0 up, before the Panthers mount an impressive comeback and run out comfortable 34-16 winners at AAMI Park.

ROUND 23

A plucky Dolphins give the Panthers a run for their money, but Ivan Cleary’s side is too good in the end, winning 24-14 in Redcliffe.

Try scoring celebrations flow quickly as the Panthers easily account for Canterbury 44-18 in front of a sellout Sunday crowd in Penrith.

ROUND 24 ROUND 25

Penrith’s strong form heading towards the business end of the season continues, with a 28-0 thumping of Cronulla at BlueBet Stadium.

Melbourne look good early, but the Panthers eventually find their groove and produce a 26-6 victory in front of a huge BlueBet Stadium crowd.

ROUND 26 ROUND 27

Manly throw everything at the Panthers, and even look on the verge of causing an upset, but in the end the visitors get up 24-14 at Brookvale Oval.

Cbus Super Stadium in their final away game of the regular season, setting up a huge finish to the Minor Premiership race.

FINALS WEEK 1

Nathan Cleary produces one of the finest individual performances in a Finals match for some time, as Penrith run out 32-6 victors over the New Zealand Warriors on a sunny Saturday afternoon at BlueBet Stadium. Cleary scores a try and kicks six goals in the impressive victory.

a shoulder injury on a night to forget for the Panthers. Arch rivals Parramatta produce a stunning 32-18 upset at BlueBet Stadium.

Jarome

FINALS WEEK 3

scores a hat-trick as Penrith dismantle Melbourne with a dominant performance at Accor Stadium. The Panthers score six tries to one in the 38-4 thumping, qualifying for the 2023 NRL Grand Final and setting up a fairytale farewell for Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu.

Brian

To’o

Penrith thump Gold Coast 40-14 at

Luai suffers

Penrith claim the 2023 Minor Premiership with a 44-12 thrashing of North Queensland in front of 21,525 fans at BlueBet Stadium.

analysis

The philosophy behind the ‘Power of One’ is that one person can change the future, that one person’s actions can actually change the lives of many.

In a team game like rugby league, how can such a philosophy ever apply? One player doesn’t win a game. One player can’t make that much of a difference if the other 16 players don’t play their role.

At the Penrith Panthers it’s all about the team. The side has its leaders but those leaders drive the systems at Penrith, drive the intensity levels at each training session, during each game, it’s always the same message.

We play as a team.

We play as one.

You can see it in the team’s defensive line, the way 13 players all move together in sync. It’s like watching some well-choreographed dance on the football field.

They shuffle together sideways covering the gaps, they keep their spacing perfectly in sync with the opposition. The players all communicate with each other during every tackle they make.

In attack, the shape the players take is flawless. Each one knows exactly where to stand, what part of the field to take and when to move in perfect harmony together.

It’s rare to see a better execution of attacking football, when 13 bodies all move at you at speed, it’s almost impossible to stop. Again, the players all trust each other and everyone has a voice.

Communication is the key.

The one thing that every successful team has is a successful ‘culture’ and ‘system’ which every player must believe in and follow.

In an interview with former Panthers Head of Performance Hayden Knowles on his podcast ‘Get the Edge’ last year, coach Ivan Cleary laid it all out perfectly.

“At the end of the day, culture is all about people,” Cleary said.

“So, you’ve got to get the type of people who will fit into that culture. If they don’t fit that culture, then they can’t be here.

“I believe you can be from any walk of life, you can have different coloured hair or whatever floats your boat, as long as you’re all on the same line of thinking when it comes to the ‘team’, the ‘club’ and its ‘values’.

“Then you can be yourself, but you’ve got to be part of what the team’s about first, which is teamwork.

“It’s a basic human need to feel connected,

to be part of a team, to be a part of something bigger than yourself.”

On Sunday, one player will not win the Grand Final for the Panthers. Nathan Cleary will not kick a sideline conversion which wins the match, Jarome Luai will not pull apart the opposition defence and land the killer blow, nor will James Fisher-Harris charge onto the ball and score the winning try.

No, the entire Panthers team will win the Grand Final and make it a very rare three-peat.

17 individuals which form a team, 17 individuals who all believe in the Panthers culture, 17 individuals who are so in sync with each other that they are no longer 17 individual players but instead see themselves as something more, as one group… one team.

And that… is the Power of One!

The Panthers are a phenomenal team. Photo: NRL Images.

with Peter Lang

ON A PATH TO NRL GREATNESS

Trajectory.

It’s a tricky word to say.

It’s a tricky word to spell.

(Trust me, I had to make sure there was no ‘d’ and an ‘o’.)

It’s a word often used in conjunction with Nathan Cleary at the moment.

The Penrith halfback might not be the best halfback the game has seen yet… but what about if he “continues on the trajectory he’s on” as has been mentioned often in recent weeks?

Here’s a humble, skilful, modest, gifted, resilient, cleanskin (ignoring TikTok and the odd lifting tackle), who at just 25 is only 80 minutes away from a third NRL Premiership.

matt russell

Already he’s played 14 State of Origin games and been a part of three series victories. He’s won a World Cup with Australia after nudging Daly Cherry-Evans out of the No.7 jersey.

Conservatively, Cleary might have seven seasons left. That would take him to 32. What if he has another decade-plus ahead and plays to the age 35 or 36.

That could be another 20-plus games for his state and country.

And who says the Premiership success is going to stop any time soon? Especially when you consider names like Tago, Sorensen, Fisher-Harris, To’o, Yeo, Martin, Edwards and himself are

signed long-term to Penrith. Luai might yet join them. Could he not finish with five or more Premierships?

He’s already played 158 NRL games and 400 must surely be a reasonable target.

Crunch the numbers, make a conservative projection, and try arguing that great names like Sterling, Alexander, Stuart, Langer, Thurston, Cronk, and Johns will be ahead of Cleary by the time the current Penrith No.7 hangs up his boots.

Sure, there is work to be done but what if this trajectory continues, let alone steepens!

The next stop is Sunday’s Grand Final against Brisbane and another fantastic half in Adam Reynolds.

They are similar, they are different, they are head-to-head in the most intriguing match-up.

In their Preliminary Finals Cleary scored a try, had a try-assist, featured in several others and slotted 7/8 with the boot. Reynolds conducted play beautifully for Brisbane and casually kicked 6/6. Are there more important players to each team? Both oozed composure.

Over the 2023 season for Penrith, Cleary has played 21 games, scored seven tries, delivered 24 try assists and slotted goals at 83 per cent.

At Brisbane, Reynolds has played

22 games, scored five tries, delivered 26 try assists and slotted goals at 80 per cent.

One is a 33-year-old South Sydney cast off who makes Rabbitohs fan grimace with every fist pump. The other is a 25-yearold son of a gun, who should only get better and will surely never be let go by Penrith. Not on the trajectory he’s on! Enjoy the Grand Final. It’ll be an absolute belter.

Join us on Fox League from 1pm Sunday for full coverage of the State Championship and NRLW Grand Final before Yvonne Samp son and the team turn to the NRL Grand Final. Panthers

skipper Nathan Cleary.

A SPECIAL TIME FOR OUR CITY

It’s Grand Final Week!

Our community is a buzz once again as we prepare for the Penrith Panthers to go three for three as the NRL’s Premiers. The team has worked so hard all season and Penrith has been there every step of the way.

There’s no surprise that the Panthers have made it to the Grand Final once again, we have the best players in the NRL.

From Dylan Edwards at fullback, to Nathan Clearly with the best kicking in the game, our powerful forwards Moses Leota and Liam Martin, and we can’t forget the great leadership of our co-captains.

The Panthers would not be the team we all love without their coach, Ivan Cleary. Their faith in their ability, skills and strength as a team is what makes the Penrith Panthers roar.

Our team always demonstrates true grit and determination every time they lace up their boots, run on the field and compete for our great city.

Their strong sense of community pride and a genuine willingness to step up for their fans is what makes our team not only the best in the west, but better than the rest.

When you drive throughout the Penrith community this week, you’ll see the amount of ‘Panther Pride’ we have and how this team can bring such an amazing community together.

I wish the best of luck to our Panthers and hope to see the trophy coming straight back to its home in Penrith!

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, is cheering on the Panthers this week.

melissa mcintosh

Federal Member for Lindsay

Saying goodbye to someone you love needs deep care and consideration. We pride ourselves on listening deeply and taking the time to get to know you, so we can create a meaningful farewell, one that truly reflects the very fabric of your loved one.

panther rumblings

DRAGONS IN SERIOUS LUAI CHASE

! Dragons eye Luai: While several clubs will put offers in front of Jarome Luai should he test the open market from November 1, I am told it is St George-Illawarra that could be the most vigorous in the chase for his signature. A showdown potentially looms between the Dragons and Canterbury for Luai’s services should he choose to chase the money, with Penrith unlikely to go anywhere near what will be offered by those clubs. No clubs other than Penrith can talk to Luai about his future until after November 1, but the whispers are growing very loud that the Dragons will make him a top priority. Luai will likely sit down with Penrith after the Grand Final to formalise his position ahead of the November 1 deadline.

!

Mayor’s stadium regret: Outgoing Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen has delivered a desperate final pitch to revive the plan to build the new Penrith Stadium on the site of the Penrith Showground and Paceway. She left the top job on Monday night and said not being able to get the new Penrith Stadium site across the line was a major regret. In her final speech as Mayor, Hitchen said while she appreciated the State Government’s commitment to refurbishing the existing stadium, she believed a huge opportunity was being lost by not taking up the Paceway and Showgound option. She also expressed huge concerns about the “financial hit” to Penrith while the Panthers play at Parramatta during the refurbishment. “It doesn’t have to be this way,” she said.

! Spotted: State Penrith MP Karen McKeown decorating her office in Panthers colours to celebrate Grand Final Week. She was so confident that signage outside of her office started going up last Thursday!

opinion piece in this week’s Weekender, talking up Sydney as a host of major events and celebrating Grand Final Week. The opportunity was declined.

! Panthers get final look at Accor: Penrith will hold their Captain’s Run at Accor Stadium at 2pm on Saturday afternoon, with coach Ivan Cleary to hold a brief press conference afterwards in what will be the club’s final media opportunity of the week. The Panthers will get the final feel for the Grand Final venue, with the Broncos holding their Captain’s Run three hours earlier at 11am.

! Cleary’s Blues role: Should Brad Fittler keep his job as NSW coach next season, you can expect Panthers coach Ivan Cleary to make another couple of game day cameos. While nothing formal has been discussed, Cleary sitting in the box for the third Origin game this year was a sign of Fittler surround ing himself with winners and clever footy brains. It’s why he wants Phil Gould back in the mix too. It’s unlikely Penrith would stand in the way of Cleary having a role, particular ly given it would be more game day based.

Regardless, Origin camps are set to be shorter next year under a couple of NRL draw changes.

Seat’. And in a huge moment of generosity, he’s pledged to donate a portion to the Royce Simmons Foundation. Smith played 20 games with Penrith in the early 1980s, before finishing his first grade career with Canberra.

! Spotted: Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary arriving at the club’s media session on Tuesday in nothing but his Bonds undies. He’d given every other piece of clothing to supporters at the fan day at BlueBet Stadium.

! Panther convoy returns: It’s not an official Grand Final Day event but many fans will start their Sunday with what’s now become a tradition – the Grand Final Convoy. It’ll all kick-off at Jamison Park on Sunday morning from 9.30am. The route takes in Batt Street, York Road and Maxwell Street before making its way into the Penrith CBD via The Northern

! Premier brushes paper: NSW Premier Chris Minns was offered the chance to write an

Jarome Luai.

GO THE MIGHTY PANTHERS!!

the curtain raisers the curtain raisers TITANS ON HUNT FOR HISTORY STATE HONOURS ON THE LINE

almost 13,000 fans at McDonald Jones Stadium.

The Newcastle Knights will have the chance to defend their NRLW title on Grand Final Day after a 30-24 Preliminary Final win over the Brisbane Broncos.

Star fullback Tamika Upton set up two tries and scored one of her own in front of

They will now face the Gold Coast Titans, who held on to produce a 12-0 upset victory over the Sydney Roosters last weekend.

Captain Hannah Southwell said it’s “surreal”.

At a press conference this week, Southwell said she is excited to represent her hometown with her little sister.

HELPING FATHERS

“To do it on the biggest stage is something that you can only dream of,” she said.

“I can’t wait but we’ve got one more job to do and we’ve got to make sure we win that game and prepare.”

The Titans are equally determined to seal the win at Accor Stadium on Sunday.

After taking home the wooden spoon in 2022, they are now on the verge of a complete turnaround and looking to take home their maiden premiership.

Before the team even take to the field, the Titans have already made NRLW history with Karyn Murphy becoming the first woman in charge of a Grand Final team.

“It’s a goal for us to get that Premiership and bring it home for the club and the community,” she said.

Captain Georgia Hale said that the team has a ‘go for gold’ mentality.

“I think everything’s happened for a reason, to put us in this position, and it makes us more hungry for next weekend,” she said.

“It’s an exciting week for us all, we deserve to be here and we’re just going to enjoy all the small moments.”

The NRL State Championship will be played as a curtain raiser, ahead of the big dance at Accor Stadium on Sunday.

The South Sydney Rabbitohs, who edged out the North Sydney Bears in a thrilling NSW Cup Grand Final last weekend, will take on the Brisbane Tigers, who beat the Burleigh Bears in the Hostplus Cup decider by a similarly tight margin.

In front of a 10,000-plus crowd at CommBank Stadium, the Rabbitohs sealed a 21st premiership, raising the Knock-On Effect NSW Cup again after 40 years.

Coach Joe O’Callaghan said it was a very tough game between two very good teams.

“We were coming second last on the ladder in Round 9 or 10, but we kept finding ways to win,” he said.

“I’m proud of how they stuck together because our season could have gone the other way very quickly.”

Incredibly, the Tigers have also ended a 32-year premiership drought.

Coach Matt Church was choking back tears after the win as he said the team had “created history”.

“Board members are crying… it is an emotional time… we found a way and we did it. We have broken a drought,” he said.

“I am just so proud of the group. If someone told me 12 months ago this could have been a possibility, I would not have believed them.”

The game will kick-off at 1.20pm on Sunday, October 1.

The Titans celebrate reaching the NRLW Grand Final.

Photo: NRL Images.

South Sydney resurrected their season to reach the Finals, and then win the NSW Cup decider. Photo: NRL Images.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Our practice is committed to helping fathers stay in touch with their children. At Family Law for Fathers we understand that children should have a special relationship with their father, and acknowledge how hard it can be at times.

TIP: Broncos by 4

Clive Churchill Medal winner:

Reece Walsh

DANIKA MASON TROY DODDS

TIP: Panthers by 4

Clive Churchill Medal winner:

Isaah Yeo

NATHAN TAYLOR

TIP: Panthers by 10

Clive Churchill Medal winner:

Nathan Cleary

WARREN SMITH

TIP: Panthers by 8

Clive Churchill Medal winner:

Isaah Yeo

TIP: Panthers by 8

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Liam Martin

TIP: Panthers by 12

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Dylan Edwards

MELISSA MCINTOSH IAN GARTON

MATT RUSSELL JOSH MANSOUR

TIP: Panthers by 14

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Liam Martin

Channel Nine Host

Western Weekender Editor

Western Weekender Rugby League Writer

2003 Clive Churchill Medal Winner

Fox League Commentator

Former Penrith Panthers winger

Fox League Commentator

Federal Member for Lindsay

Garton Group McDonald’s

MARISE PAYNE

TIP: Panthers by 12

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Reece Walsh

GREG ALEXANDER MARK GEYER

TIP: Panthers by 6

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary

ERIN MOLAN PRUE CAR

TIP: Panthers by 6

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary

TIP: Panthers by 12

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary

VESTAL DELPECHITRA

TIP: Panthers by 6

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Dylan Edwards

TIP: Panthers by 4

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Isaah Yeo

TIP: Broncos by 1

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Payne Haas

TIP: Broncos by 6

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Payne Haas

MATT ELLIOTT ANDREW VOSS LARA PITT

TIP: Panthers by 14

Clive Churchill Medal winner: Nathan Cleary

Former Penrith Panthers Head Coach

Fox League Commentator

Fox League Presenter

Deputy Premier & State Londonderry MP

Gogglebox star and Panthers cheerleader

BACKING THE PANTHERS

Penrith’s business community is getting behind the Penrith Panthers! With the NRL Grand FInal game being played on Sunday night , one lucky business adver tising here will walk away with two chairman’s lounge tickets to a game next year – if the player they’re sponsoring scores the first Panthers tr y. Go the Panthers and make sure you suppor t these great local businesses!

COUNTRY BREWER Y BREWER NEPEAN 12

MCKENZIE 13

DICKENS 14

BRONCOS RIDE GRAND FINAL WAVE

While the Panthers will be on the prowl for a three-peat, the Broncos will be playing to end a 17-year premiership drought on Sunday.

Brisbane haven’t appeared in a decider since 2015, but they are finally back in a Grand Final looking to spoil Penrith’s party.

Reece Walsh said the support has been unbelievable ahead of the ‘big dance’ this weekend.

“We’ve got one more job to do, so really keen and excited to get out there and step on the big stage. These are the games you want to be a part of,” he said.

“To see the team that we are this year and have been for a couple of years, we’ve taken some good steps in the right direction.”

At a press conference this week, Walsh said he doesn’t fear the Panthers or playing in enemy territory.

“We’re going to give them the respect that they’ve earned but we’re going to go out there and play our brand of footy,” he said.

“I’m just going to focus on my job and put my best foot forward on Sunday.”

After losing to the Panthers by two points in 2021, former Rabbitohs half Adam Reynolds is looking for redemption.

“It excites me that I’m here again and I get another chance to do it,” he said.

“I was at Souths my whole life and I knew nothing different, so it’s not until you step out of an organisation and find another one that

you realise what’s on the other side. I thought South Sydney was it for me, but I’m grateful for the opportunity that I’ve been given by the club in Brisbane, and l’ve fallen deeply in love with the club.”

Kotoni Staggs will hit the 100-game milestone in Sunday’s Grand Final.

He said he always dreamed of playing for the the club growing up, and wants to stay there

long-term.

“I only dreamed of playing one game, so to get 100 is something I never thought I’d get to do,” Staggs said.

“And to do it with the club that I love, I’m so grateful. I love Brisbane.”

As someone who has watched the team go from the wooden spoon to premiership contenders, Staggs said coach Kevin Walters

has transformed the club over the last few years.

But after last week’s win over the Warriors, Walters said reaching the Grand Final is a great achievement for the club. He said the staff and players are planning this week to ensure they give another great performance on Sunday. “We’ve got to be great next week,” he said. “It’s a privilege to be involved in Grand Final Week.”

Broncos fullback Reece Walsh signing autographs this week. Photo: NRL Images.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

IT’S A NUMBERS GAME 50

Penrith have won exactly 50 per cent of their matches at Accor Stadium, with 21 victories from 42 attempts. Brisbane have a slightly poorer percentage at 47 per cent, with 16 wins from 34 games. 8

The predicted top temperature on Sunday at Sydney Olympic Park, with only slightly cooler weather expected come kick-off.

Penrith have won eight consecutive Finals matches, the first team to do so since St George in the 1960s. 6

Penrith conceded just two tries during the entire Finals series, one each to the Warriors and Storm.

The number of times Penrith and Brisbane have played since 1998. The Broncos have won 24 games, the Panthers 17 and there’s been 1 draw.

3

The number of players in Penrith’s starting 17 who were not part of the 2022 Grand Final side.

42 36 141 20

Penrith have played Brisbane three times in Finals, with the ledger sitting at 2-1 to Penrith. The Panthers recorded victories in 1990 and 2003, while the Broncos bundled Penrith out of the Finals in 2017. 4

The number of Premierships the Brisbane Broncos have won since entering the competition in 1988. They lifted the trophy in 1992, 1993, 1997, 1998, 2000 and 2006. 2

The number of wins Ivan Cleary (pictured) has experienced as coach of the Penrith Panthers, coming in the last four seasons.

your footy food guide

THE BEST PANTHERS-THEMED SNACKS

Grand Final Day wouldn’t be complete without some delicious snacks to help celebrate. Here’s the lowdown on some of the best Panthers-themed food this weekend...

Panthers Donuts (Donut King, Nepean Village)

Donut King at Nepean Village has Panthers donut boxes available for $20 featuring six donuts in Penrith colours and six famous cinnamon donuts. Pick-up is available between 9am and 3pm on Sunday. Pre-order at Donut King or via their Facebook page.

Crottys Bakery at 232 Great Western Highway, Kingswood.

Panthers sliders (Gourmet Meat Company, Emu Plains)

Head to the Gourmet Meat Company at 1/116 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains to pick up your Panthers sliders pack. It’s $40 for a pack of eight. Perfect for your Grand Final Day BBQ.

Panthers cookies (Cookies R Life, online) Cookies R Life are putting together delicious sugar cookie boxes dedicated to the Penrith Panthers. The Grand Final cookie boxes are $30 for a box of six. Pick-up is from Emu Plains. Search Cookies R Life on Facebook and message them to place an order.

Panthers cupcakes (Paris Diana Cakes, Mulgoa)

Paris Diana Cakes is baking plenty of delicious Grand Final cupcakes with a Panthers theme. Pick-up from Mulgoa. Email parisdianacakes@ gmail.com to place an order or check them out on Instagram.

Final Ham-pah ($135) and the Share Pack Grand Final Ham-pah ($90). People can order by texting 0425 213 850 or sending a DM on Instagram.

Sausages (East Blaxland Butchery)

In celebration of the Panthers making a fourth straight Grand Final, East Blaxland Butchery has some tremendous Panthers coloured sausages up for grabs.

There’s the Vegemite, beef and cheese sausage; the Lamb, beetroot and onion sausage; the Chicken Kiev; and the Pork Toulouse. Get up to East Blaxland Butchery to grab yours.

Party packs (Crottys Bakery, Kingswood)

Crottys Bakery at Kingswood is putting together packs including 12 party pies, 12 party sausage rolls, 12 spinach and cheese pasties and 12 Panthers cupcakes. Valued at $124, they’re available for just $100. Pre-order from

Footy donuts (Western Sydney Donuts)

Western Sydney Donuts have delicious Grand Final themed donuts available. Nine donut rings for $25, to help you cheer on the Panthers on Sunday. Pick-up only on Saturday, September 30. Visit wsdonuts.com.au for details.

Panthers hampers (Gifting Emporium)

The Gifting Emporium has two grand final hampers they are selling: The Ultimate Grand

More cupcakes (@closcakecreations)

Support a local business and order some Grand Final cupcakes through Clos Cake Creations. Head to Instagram to order: www. instagram.com/Closcakecreations.

Delicious desserts (Elite Desserts by Layla) Everything from cheesecake cups to cake pops. Check out what they’ve got on Facebook by searching Elite Desserts by Layla.

Delicious Panthers cookies.

Donut King’s Grand Final donuts.

Cupcakes from Paris Diana Cakes. East Blaxland Butchery.

past grand finals

FIVE BEST GRAND FINAL MOMENTS

TROY DODDS

Moments matter in Grand Finals. Here’s the top five moments from Penrith’s six Grand Final appearances...

4. Right to Rooney (2003)

5. Dylan’s ‘Sattler’ moment (2022)

While Penrith had dominated the 2022 Grand Final against Parramatta from the start, it was an incredible tackle from eventual Clive Churchill Medal winner Dylan Edwards that guaranteed it in the 57th minute. With winger Bailey Simonsson powering down the touchline, Edwards came across in cover, effected the tackle and bundled him into touch. It was almost a carbon copy of Scott Sattler’s try-saving tackle on Todd Byrne 19 years earlier. It destroyed any chance of an unlikely Eels comeback, and helped write Edwards into the history books.

With Penrith up 12-6 in wet conditions and the 2003 Grand Final entering its knockout stages, a moment of magic from two Lukes – Priddis and Rooney – would wrap up an historic win for the Mountain men over the Roosters. With Penrith attacking the line, everyone expected Priddis to quickly get the ball back to Craig Gower for a field goal. Instead, he shifted left from dummy half, took a couple of steps and then threw a long ball out to Rooney who went over in the corner untouched. It was a dummy to die for – and killed off the Roosters.

Canberra side and the clock ticking down in the Grand Final, a moment of magic from Royce Simmons in his final game would seal Penrith’s first Premiership. Canberra opted for a short, low line drop-out, desperate to get the ball back, but it took a perfect bounce for big Mark Geyer, who weaved through the defence, then found Simmons out wide. He got past fullback Gary Belcher and planted the ball – before immediately jumping into the embrace of Geyer. If Penrith hadn’t already won the Grand Final, that moment sealed it for sure.

shuffling the ball to his outside backs when Crichton plucked it out of the air and raced away to score a famous try with 14 minutes left on the clock. Nathan Cleary’s conversion gave the Panthers a 14-8 advantage, and it turned out to be enough come full-time, with Penrith winning 14-12.

3. Royce gets the winner (1991)

With Penrith up 13-12 over a champion

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2. Crichton’s intercept (2021)

With the scores locked at 8-all in the 2021 decider, it was Stephen Crichton who blew the game wide open and set up Penrith’s first Premiership win since 2003. South Sydney playmaker Cody Walker was desperately searching for space on the left side, quickly

With the scores locked at 6-all mid-way through the second half, the 2003 Grand Final between Penrith and the Roosters was precariously placed. When winger Todd Byrne started racing down the touchline at the Olympic stadium, it appeared he would streak away to score – but one man had other ideas. Lock Scott Sattler came across in cover, executing a perfect tackle around Byrne’s legs and bundling him into touch. The tackle entered Grand Final folklore, while for Penrith it inspired them to go on and win the club’s second ever Grand Final.

1. The Sattler tackle (2003)

Dylan Edwards makes his famous tackle in the 2022 decider. Photo: NRL Images.

Stephen Crichton races away to score in the 2021 Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

Scott Sattler prepares to make that famous 2003 tackle.

Luke Rooney scores his second.

Photo: NRL Images.

Royce Simmons scores in 1991.

FOREVER THE FIRST: THE HISTORY MAKERS

we probably wasted a chance in 1990 and these chances don’t come along all that often,” he said.

there was no doubt they were on top at half-time,” he said.

The 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.

According to Panthers legend Greg Alexander, the heartbreak of the previous year played a significant role in his side’s mindset ahead of the 1991 decider.

“I think it was all of us realising that

“I’d been playing seven or eight years by the time we hit 1991. It was ‘we need to win this’ because we might not get another chance.”

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?”

Alexander remembers the feeling at half-time well.

“Even though we scored the first try

“And apart from a few desperate defensive situations, they could have been more than 12-6 in front quite easily.

“At half-time, there was a concern. We didn’t walk into the sheds with our heads up... it took Royce and Gus... Royce got up and made an impassioned speech about what we needed to do and Gus had his say.

“We went out and in the second half we barely let them into our half. We were very dominant.”

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.

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.

The Panthers built pressure and the rest is history – the forced line dropout, 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 that day.

“Greg Alexander was the player of the match. His kicking game was outstanding and his leadership was fantastic,” Simmons said.

The players celebrate with fans at the SFS. Photo: NRL Images.

Steve Carter in action in the 1991 Grand Final.

Photo: NRL Images. John Cartwright and Mark Geyer with the trophy.

Photo: NRL Images.

TROY DODDS

past grand finals

BREAKTHROUGH MOMENT FOR PENRITH

that’s what makes it so special,” he said.

games alongside his son, who is a Panthers fanatic.

Penrith’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.

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 two-try performance, while eventual Clive Churchill Medallist Luke Priddis not only set up two tries that evening but bagged one himself in an heroic effort in sluggish conditions.

Fan favourite Ryan Girdler, who limped 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

Interviewed by 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, before the off-season officially began.

Earlier this year, most of the 2003 Grand Final team gathered in Penrith to celebrate the club’s famous win 20 years prior.

In an interview with the Weekender back in May, two-try hero Luke Rooney said he’s still a fan of the team and loves watching

“Yes, I still support them and, even though I live in Melbourne, my son is a mad Panthers supporter,” the 40-year-old said.

“We both watch all the games and the last two years have been unbelievable especially.”

Luke Priddis, who was crowned Man of the Match, said he’s one of many players who have never watched the entire game back.

“I don’t think most blokes would have watched it from start to finish… there’s enough stuff on social media that summarises the game pretty well and I was lucky enough to be a part of it,” he said.

“Whenever you win a Grand Final, it’s always something special that you cherish.”

Ryan Girdler and Craig Gower. Photo: NRL Images.

Penrith celebrate Rooney’s first try. Photo: NRL Images. Luke Rooney scores for Penrith. Photo: NRL Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

past grand finals REDEMPTION AS 2021 TITLE HEADS WEST

TROY DODDS

Athree-peat must start with the first, and as Penrith prepare for a slice of history at Accor Stadium on Sunday night, it’s intriguing to remember that this incredible Premiership run started in – of all places – Queensland.

The NRL relocated all of its teams to the sunshine state mid-way through the 2021 season after COVID-19 wreaked havoc through New South Wales, forcing the state into its second lockdown.

Penrith powered their way through the remainder of the season, quickly grabbing Premiership favouritism before a stunning surprise in the first week of the Finals changed everything.

The Panthers faced the Rabbitohs in the Qualifying Final at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, and all was going to plan early when Stephen Crichton scored the opening try.

But Souths worked their way into the game, crossing through Cody Walker in the first half and Jaxson Paulo in the second to set up a 16-10 win – on a night where five penalty goals were kicked between the two sides.

The loss put Penrith into dangerous territory – with some experts labelling them ‘done’

– as they started a mission to go the ‘long way around’ and try to make the Grand Final from the other side of the draw.

It was off to BB Print Stadium in Mackay for a Semi Final showdown with Parramatta – and showdown is putting it lightly. In one of the most tightly contested Finals you could imagine, Penrith emerged 8-6 winners after a scoreless second half. The Panthers’ defensive performance was something special, and would ultimately be part of what defined the side’s run to the Premiership.

A Preliminary Final clash with now competition favourites Melbourne was next – and again it was a tightly contested affair, that had fans back in Penrith on the edge of their seats.

Crichton bagged an early try thanks to a sneaky kick from Nathan Cleary to the right wing, but it wouldn’t be until Brian To’o scored in the 42nd minute that the scoreboard attendant would be troubled again.

Ryan Papenhuyzen finally scored for Melbourne in the 62nd minute, with the final 18 minutes becoming a warrior-like defensive performance from the Panthers to hold on for a 10-6 win, and qualify for the 2021 Grand Final.

It was on to the decider – the Panthers and Rabbitohs in

the first NRL Grand Final to be played at Suncorp Stadium in history.

A Crichton intercept 14 minutes from full-time will

decided the Grand Final and secured Penrith’s third Premiership.

The Panthers won 14-12 but not before a late scare with South Sydney halfback Adam Reynolds missing a sideline conversion four minutes from full-time that would have

It was a Grand Final for the ages.

After a bruising opening period, Penrith were first to score when Matt Burton found space in the 16th minute.

The Rabbitohs hit back to level the scores soon after when Cody Walker produced some of his trademark solo brilliance just four minutes later.

The Panthers took an 8-6 lead into the break when Cleary kicked a penalty goal in the 32nd minute. Souths came out strong in the second half and were unlucky not to find the tryline, but did manage to level the scores through a penalty goal just four minutes into the period.

The Rabbitohs looked like they were about to create something down their left side when the game took a dramatic twist – Crichton intercepting a wayward Walker pass to race into Grand Final immortality.

Alex Johnston scored with just six minutes to go but Reynolds couldn’t land the conversion, leaving Penrith 14-12 up.

There were incredible scenes of emotion at full-time as the Panthers celebrated a hard fought victory over a newfound arch rival.

Nathan Cleary was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal.

Stephen Crichton embraces the trophy after the Grand Final.

Photo: NRL Images.

The Panthers embrace on their way to the Premiership.

Photo: NRL Images.

past grand finals

EELS SUNK AS PENRITH WINS IT AGAIN

It was the Grand Final Penrith and Parramatta fans had been both dreaming of and dreading for more than 50 years – the ultimate Battle of the West.

With back-to-back premierships on the line, the Panthers were firm favourites heading into their third consecutive decider.

After losing on the same ground two years earlier to the Storm and winning up in Brisbane the year prior, Penrith were determined to finally give their home fans the end-of-year celebration they thoroughly deserved.

In front of a sold-out crowd at Accor Stadium, the match played out eerily similar to the 2020 decider, but with the roles very much reversed. This time it was Penrith with the experience, and it showed in an opening half onslaught that saw them lead 18-0 at half-time.

The game was over well before that. By the time Brian To’o scored his first try, seven minutes after Stephen Crichton opened up the scoring, it was obvious nobody was beating the Panthers.

Penrith had been the dominant team in the NRL for three years, but they saved perhaps their best performance of this period for the Grand Final.

With an 86 per cent completion rate, they starved the Eels of the ball and powered over the top of them like it was men against boys.

Much like the Storm did in 2020, Penrith put their foot on the accelerator in the opening

stages of the second half, putting any question of an Eels revival to bed.

To’o’s 45th minute try – his second of the evening – came after a Waqa Blake mistake close to his own line. At the end of the ensuing set, Penrith produced a classy left-side move that ended with To’o crashing over out wide.

With time and hope slipping away, Penrith’s 22-0 lead quickly became an unassailable 28-0 when Charlie Staines – in his first Grand Final – found a hole in Parramatta’s defence and cut

through to score.

If there was any disappointment for Penrith, it would come in the final five minutes when Clint Gutherson and Jake Arthur bagged tries.

For Penrith, the full-time siren cemented back-to-back titles for the first time in the club’s history.

In the end it wasn’t the Grand Final for the ages many fans were hoping for. The Battle of the West became a one-sided affair that proved just who is the most dominant in this chapter of

the long rivalry between the two clubs.

Dylan Edwards was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal for his scintillating performance, while skipper Nathan Cleary accepted the trophy post-match, congratulating Parramatta on their season.

“We look forward to continuing those battles,” he said.

“To the fans… thank you so much. We’re so blessed to represent Penrith and can’t wait to party with you all.”

The Panthers party after winning the trophy in 2022. Photo: NRL Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

premiership honour roll

past grand finals

THE LAST THREE-PEAT: JOINING HISTORY

TROY DODDS

Penrith have a chance to create a slice of history on Sunday night by becoming the first side in the NRL era to win three consecutive Premierships.

Not since the Parramatta side of 1981, 1982 and 1983 has a side achieved such a feat – meaning Ivan Cleary’s team can break a 40-year three-peat drought.

Jack Gibson coached the Eels through that incredible era, with the likes of Peter Sterling, Brett Kenny, Steve Edge, Michael Cronin and Peter Wynn highlighting the playing ranks.

The Eels started their Premiership run with a 20-11 defeat of Newtown in 1981, followed the next year by a 21-8 victory over Manly. In 1983, Manly again fell victim to the blue and gold dominance – with Parramatta winning 18-6.

“Prior to us, the last side that won three in a row was the mighty St George team who won the Premiership from 1956 to ’66,” said Eels legend Peter Wynn.

Looking back, Wynn said there are no words to describe that winning feeling.

“When the referee blows the

whistle for the last time, you’re on another planet,” he said.

“You’re excited… you look around and see what it means to your teammates on the field.

“It is just a moment that is so special and one I’ll never forget.”

It’s visible across every project, and it’s there with every foundation created, every brick laid, and every structure completed. It’s clear in our passion for what we do best. Knock Down Rebuilds, New Homes, Dual Living, Duplexes, Home Additions.

Sterling noted that while the threepeat will be forever remembered, there’s nothing like the first in 1981.

“Obviously playing for your country is right up there, I played a Challenge Cup final for Hull FC at Wembley in front of 100,000 people that was a

highlight but I can’t put anything higher than winning the premiership at Parramatta for the first time,” he said.

“We’ve won premierships since and we’ll win them again in the future, but we’ll never win it again for the first time.”

Michael Cronin, who won four premierships, said winning the first “meant big” for the players and supporters.

“We had all the great blokes, like Sterling, Kenny, Grothe, Ella and Taylor, come through in one group,” he said.

In 2023, it is names like Cleary, Luai, To’o and Yeo who have a chance to write a piece of sporting history – one that, without question, would be talked about in another 40 years, just like that mighty Eels team is now.

– Additional reporting by Makayla Muscat

Steve Edge and Michael Cronin on Grand Final Day in 1983.

Photo: NRL Images.

Ray Price waves to the Parramatta faithful in 1983. Photo: NRL Images.

PASSIONATE FANS SHOW THEIR PRIDE

We drove around Penrith this week to discover some of the best house decorations celebrating the Panthers’ Grand Final appearance...

Moxham Street, Cranebrook.

Richmond Road, Cambridge Park.

Racecourse Road, South Penrith. Brown Steet, Penrith.

Greenwood Parkway, Jordan Springs.

Wittama Drive, Glenmore Park.

Troy Street, Emu Plains.

Penrith Early Learning Centre.

Mulgoa Road, Jamisontown. Talltrees Drive, Glenmore Park.

Lorne Avenue, South Penrith.

1. Which club made their NRL debut this year?

2. Who won the Clive Churchill Medal in the 2022 Grand Final?

3. What channel was ‘The Footy Show’ on?

4. Which company makes the NRL’s official ball?

5. Which foundation club was readmitted to the NRL in 2002?

6. When did the Parramatta Eels last win the premiership?

7. How many clubs has Johnathan Thurston (pictured) won premierships with?

8. How many consecutive premierships did the St George Dragons win from 1956?

9. When did the Gold Coast Titans join the NRL?

10. Which club did Greg Alexander play for in 1995?

11. When was the first season of the National Rugby League competition played?

12. How many NRL matches did record holder Cameron Smith play for the Storm?

13. What is the original name of Suncorp Stadium?

14. What year did Brad Fittler make his first grade debut as a schoolboy?

15. Did Penrith win the NRL Grand Final in 2020?

16. What was the mascot of Illawarra?

17. Who did Ricky Stuart play for in the 1999 season?

18. Which year did Mal Meninga retire from the game?

19. What colour did Andrew Johns randomly dye his hair in the ‘90s?

20. Which club’s stadium sits beside the ocean?

21. Manly legend Mark Carroll made his first grade debut with which club?

22. What were the colours of defunct team, the Adelaide Rams?

23. There was a second team in the Hunter region back in 1997, who were they?

24. Where did the Western Reds play their home matches?

25. Who sings ‘Simply the Best’?

26. Who was the first coach of the Wests Tigers?

27. What was the previous name of BlueBet Stadium?

28. What year did we have cardboard cutouts as fans?

29. Who coached the Sharks before John Lang took over in 1994?

30. How many clubs did Ivan Cleary play for?

legend Johnathan Thurston. Photo:

SHOP NO W

LO CATED IN THE FOYER AT PA NTHERS PENRITH LEAGUES CLUB .