Extra Time July 19 2019

Brought to you by…

Reagan Campbell-Gillard.

Photo: Megan Dunn

SIX OF THE BEST PANTHERS ENTER TOP EIGHT FOR FIRST TIME IN 2019 PANTHERS V DRAGONS > P31 Penrith aim for seven straight wins against desperate St George-Illawarra

LEGACY CONTINUES > P33 New chapter in Cartwright history as Jed makes first grade debut

FACE IN THE CROWD > P40 Did our cameras catch you in the crowd? You could win movie tickets!

WW38256

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender

The 3 Ticket Flexi gives you three general admission tickets to use at Panthers Stadium.

ALSO INCLUDES:

Invites to member-only events 10% discount on merchandise at the Panther Shop $15 discount for the Panther Bus during the regular 2019 season Member-first emails

UPCOMING HOME GAMES

SUNDAY 28 JULY KICK-OFF: 4.05PM PANTHERS STADIUM

FRIDAY 9 AUGUST KICK-OFF: 7.055PM PANTHERS STADIUM

SUNDAY 8 SEPTEMBER KICK-OFF: 4.05PM PANTHERS STADIUM

CALL 1300 PANTHERS OR VISIT MEMBERSHIP.PENRITHPANTHERS.COM.AU TO JOIN THE PANTHERS FAMILY TODAY! 30

ONLY

$50

THE FINAL WORD

v

FRIDAY, JULY 19 • 7.55PM | PANTHERS STADIUM | REFEREES: GRANT ATKINS & JON STONE

PANTHERS 1

Dylan Edwards

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Josh Mansour Dean Whare Brent Naden Brian To’o James Maloney Nathan Cleary James Tamou (c) Mitchell Kenny James Fisher-Harris Viliame Kikau Frank Winterstein Isaah Yeo Wayde Egan Jarome Luai Moses Leota Reagan Campbell-Gillard Hame Sele 19 Jed Cartwright

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 19, 2019

MATCH PREVIEW

Brought to you by…

DRAGONS

CHANNEL 9 FOX LEAGUE

Nathan Cleary at training this week. Photo: Megan Dunn

TROY

DODDS Cancel those September holiday plans.

From an almost impossible position, the Panthers have moved into the NRL top eight and now control their own destiny in a season that looked done and dusted two months ago.

Penrith breezed past the Titans 24- 2 at Panthers Stadium last Friday night in a performance that was far from clinical but certainly showed that this is a side continuing to build at the right time.

Friday night’s clash with St GeorgeIllawarra promises to be a contest of blockbuster proportions at Panthers Stadium, with a huge crowd expected and supporters now starting to believe that Ivan Cleary’s side can still do something special this season.

There is a fear that Penrith will want to take a breath now that they’ve reached the top eight, but hopefully Cleary can keep his young side grounded this week and ensure the message sinks in that the job is far from done.

If 28 points gets you into the Finals this year, and it most likely will, Penrith still need to win five of their remaining eight games to get there. Facing such a scenario, the four remaining home games are critical – win those and Penrith will only need to grab one win on the road against either the Bulldogs, Broncos, Cowboys or Roosters to ensure their spot.

The Dragons have been ordinary of late and surrendered meekly to Ricky Stuart’s Raiders on Sunday night, and their task is made even more difficult by the five-day turnaround they now face for this game.

It’s really now or never for Paul McGregor’s side, which sits in 14th spot

2GB 873 ABC 702 on the ladder and will dramatically lose touch with the top eight if they fall to the Panthers.

McGregor has surprisingly rested Ben Hunt for this match, with Darren Nicholls to play halfback, but welcomes back James Graham from injury.

While Penrith’s backline appears much stronger on paper than that of the Dragons, you can’t doubt the firepower the visitors offer up front. With the likes of Graham, Paul Vaughan, Tyson Frizell and Tariq Sims in their pack, St George- Illawarra can certainly lay a strong platform up the middle of the field, and this is their best chance of dominating the Panthers.

McGregor labelled last week’s loss to Canberra as “the worst performance of the season” and said it was “unacceptable”, a message that could well fire the players up ahead of the clash with Penrith.

Penrith are still making too many errors,

1

Matthew Dufty

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Jonus Pearson Euan Aitken Timoteo Lafai Mikaele Ravalawa Corey Norman Darren Nicholls Blake Lawrie Cameron McInnes Paul Vaughan Tyson Frizell Tariq Sims James Graham Josh Kerr Korbin Sims Patrick Kaufusi Luciano Leilua 18 R Robinson

conceding too many penalties and missing too many tackles for any supporter to feel comfortable that they’ll keep their winning streak going, but by winning games they’re allowing Cleary and co to focus on the little things at training, tightening up areas of their game and making small improvements week by week.

Nathan Cleary returns from injury this weekend to partner James Maloney in the halves and that’ll be a welcome boost for the side. While many want to see Jarome Luai in the team permanently, being able to ease him into the week- to-week roller coaster ride of first grade is surely only a good thing for his future.

With their season on the line, the Dragons won’t easily give up the two competition points on Friday. Penrith will need to improve again to ensure six of the best turns into seventh heaven.

Tip: Panthers by 6.

31

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

CROWD FAVE  Nathan Cleary may have missed last

Friday night’s game at Panthers Stadium but he was still a crowd favourite at the match. Cleary spent plenty of time speaking with young fans, signing autographs and taking photos. The 21-year-old is copping it from some sections of the Penrith fan base for his on-field performances (often unfairly), but nobody can deny the extraordinary benefits his profile brings to the club.

 A spanner has been thrown in the

works when it comes to the future of James Maloney, who may now be facing a diet of croissants instead of warm beer. Maloney is all but certain to leave Penrith at the end of the season after two stand-out years, and has always wanted to finish his career overseas. While Leeds in the UK are the favourites to snare his signature, France-based club Catalan Dragons have now confirmed their interest in the Origin winner.

 Which one-time Panthers powerbroker has fallen out with a number of key figures at the club? There’s a chance it could turn ugly.

 Did Penrith City Council try to astro-

nomically increase the rent the Panthers pay to lease the stadium they’ve called home since 1967? That’s the rumour doing the rounds – apparently it won’t be happening given how much Panthers pay to maintain and manage the ground each year.

 Former Panthers lower grade coach

Garth Brennan was a dead man walking for some time. Ironically, his last game in charge of the Titans was against his former club last Friday night. It’s my understanding Brennan lost the dressing room at the Titans some time ago and was the subject of a player revolt, which was impossible to recover from. Brennan had dinner with his former boss, Phil Gould, some six weeks ago and even then he knew his time was limited.

 Poor old Viliame Kikau was doing it

tough against the Titans last Friday night.

Nathan Cleary was a crowd favourite last Friday night.

Photo: Megan Dunn The powerhouse forward was battling gastro, which significantly limited his game time and saw him exit the field immediately after full-time, skipping the celebrations. The 24-year-old should be fighting fit for Friday night’s game against the Dragons at Panthers Stadium.



Plenty of people got behind Men of League last Friday and attended a special function at Panthers Leagues Club, raising money and awareness for the highly respected organisation. Among the guest speakers was former Panthers captain Kevin Kingston (pictured below).

 Former Panthers General Manager and

Premiership winning coach Phil Gould is returning to radio. ‘Gus’ has signed a deal with Macquarie Sports Radio that will see him present a Saturday morning program from 9am, starting this weekend. Gould is also making regular appearances on the Steve Price Show on 2GB, part of the Macquarie stable. Gould has done plenty of radio work over the years on 2GB, 2UE and Triple M, and his new show is likely to be a big boost to Macquarie Sports Radio’s profile.

CC TYRES FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED, WITH OVER 60 YEARS SERVICING THE PENRITH REGION.

 An emotional John Cartwright pre-

sented son Jed with his first NRL jersey in the sheds at Panthers Stadium last Friday night. This week happened to mark 34 years since Cartwright himself made his first grade debut on the same ground.

While the former Panthers premiership winner could have enjoyed the comforts of the corporate facilities to watch Jed’s first game, he opted to head to the hill – watching on with dozens of friends and family members.

 Tyrone May was back in court this

week as the club’s pre-season sex tape scandal continues to linger. This time he was hit with fresh charges and now faces eight charges in total over the scandal.

May has entered a not guilty plea on the initial four charges but is yet to enter a plea on the fresh offences.

✓ All tyre brands available & a wide selection of wheels ✓ We service local business, fleet companies, government and the local community ✓ Large diameter fitting and balancing & Advanced camera alignments ✓ Tyre puncture repairs (all tyres) ✓ Road Side Service for on site equipment inc backhoes, bobcats trucks, tractors etc

We'll get the job done right!

32

(02) 4731 4822 / 108 BATT STREET, PENRITH WW36201

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 19, 2019

FEATURE

LEGACY GETS NEW CHAPTER NATHAN

TAYLOR When Jed Cartwright made his longawaited NRL debut last Friday evening at Panthers Stadium, he incredibly became the sixth member of the famous Cartwright family to do so.

And just like Cliff, David, John, Michael and Bryce before him, Jed was able to live out his rugby league dream wearing a Penrith Panthers jumper.

“I played much of my junior career at the Gold Coast Titans because Dad (John) was coaching there at the time but I always wanted to come back here and make my first grade debut for Penrith, where every family member has,” Cartwright told Extra Time on Monday.

While Cartwright described his debut as “special”, it’s certainly been a long and painful journey to get there. The 22-yearold has endured some terrible injuries and setbacks over the years, which made last Friday night even more momentous.

After suffering a broken back, a groin injury, an ankle injury, dislocated shoulder and even a terrifying asthma attack, Cartwright was close to giving it all away.

“It was a tough period to go through especially getting so close to debuting a few times… it just felt like I would get an injury and it would set me back a couple of months,” Cartwright admitted.

“It was getting really frustrating and emotionally draining and I remember calling Dad a couple of times because I just had enough.

“Thankfully after a few days I got my motivation back but it sort of makes it sweeter now that I’ve finally got there.”

Making the occasion last week even more interesting for the Cartwright clan, the Warragamba Wombats junior got to make his debut up against former Panther turned Titan, Bryce Cartwright.

Cartwright said it was a unique experience playing against his cousin in front of all their family and friends.

“We were meant to be on the same side of the field when I came on but unfortu-

Rating on Google

9 FULL IN-HOUSE SERVICE FOR GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRINTING 9 FAST TURNAROUND TIME 9 FRIENDLY GRAPHIC DESIGNERS AND PRINTERS

4731 5055 21 Lawson Street, Penrith NSW 2750 www.atprint.com.au

up to 2.44m high & 2.44m long

MIRROR 2 DOORR

$ 799 • 3 drawers • 4 shelves • Shoe spacee • Double & Single Hanging space • Handbag Shelf

up to 2.44m high & 2.44m long

MIRROR 2 DOORR

WW37811

9 WE ARE LOCAL

10 YEAR GUARANTEE

WINNER

Most Outstanding Trade & Services 2008 True Local Business Awards

YOU OWN IT! CALL NOW

While Cartwright awaits his next opportunity in the top grade, he’ll never forget the week he just had.

“It was a bit of a whirlwind the last few days but it all sunk in last night,” he said.

“I just crashed about 8.30pm, I was so emotionally and physically drained.”

Custom designed and built to suit your needs

DESIGN YOUR ARTWORK

9 WE COME TO YOU

nately the Titans got an injury and Bryce had to shift to the other side,” Cartwright said.

“It would have been good to come up against him but it was really special to have him involved in my first game as well.”

BEAUTIFUL & AFFORDABLE WARDROBES

WHEN WE

WHY CHOOSE US?

Jed Cartwright and Reagan Campbell-Gillard at training this week. Photo: Megan Dunn

Remember: b “the h bbitterness off poor quality l remains long after the sweetness of a low price is forgotten”

$ 999 • 6 drawers • 8 shelves • Shoe spacee • Double & Single Hanging space • Handbag Shelf

Your choice of: • Hinged or sliding timber & up to 2.44m high & 3.6m long craftwood, Colonial or Federation-style doors • Reflect your lifestyle in our award-winning MIRROR 3 DOORR aluminium Sliding Mirror Doors • A range of $ • 6 drawers design options to make all your storage dreams • 8 shelves • Shoe spacee come true • Mirror, veneer, painted & polyurethane • Innovative features • Double & Single Hanging space • Professionally designed to meet your needs • Handbag Shelf • WALK-IN ROBES • BOOKCASES • LINEN PRESS • HOME OFFICE FITOUTS • ENTERTAINMENT UNITS The above price are between walls & floors to ceiling • HAND-MADE FURNITURE & MORE

1299

We Make All Your Storage Dreams . . .

A Reality!

9 PERSONALISED SERVICE

Lic No. 309281C *Surcharge applies for Credit Card

FACTORY DIRECT. ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 25 YEARS

WW36666

Visit our Showroom 47 Sterling Rd, MINCHINBURY

9832 4588

www.tntwardrobes.com.au E: info@tntwardrobes.com.au

33

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE Brent Naden at Panthers HQ this week. Photo: Megan Dunn

ON THE RAILS BRENT NADEN’S REMARK ABLE JOURNEY TO THE NRL NATHAN

TAYLOR

34

Panthers rookie Brent Naden thought his chances of ever playing in the NRL were done and dusted before a surprise midseason call-up changed his life forever.

To his own admission, a bad diet of McDonald’s, KFC and Krispy Kreme prevented him from reaching his peak earlier but now a refreshed outlook on life is proving wonders for the talented 23-year-old.

Before kick- off against the Titans last Friday night, it was announced to the crowd that Naden would be remaining at the foot of the Mountains for a further two seasons – a huge reward for six months of hard work and discipline.

But how did the Wellington-born centre and proud Indigenous man get to where he is today?

While his face may be new to most rugby league fans, Naden first joined Penrith in 2013 as a member of the club’s SG Ball squad.

Two years later he captained Penrith’s Holden Cup side to a premiership before departing to pursue opportunities at Canberra and Newcastle.

While Naden came close to playing first grade at both the Raiders and Knights, it wasn’t until he returned to Penrith this year on a part- time contract that things really started to take-off.

“Cameron Ciraldo got me back to the club, he was my U20s coach and my mentor at the same time,” Naden revealed to Extra Time.

“My manager asked me if I wanted to come back to Penrith and Ciro rang me to see if I was excited to return, I replied ‘of course’.”

Naden returned to the Panthers alongside his younger brother Brock, who tried

to secure a contract with the club’s Jersey Flegg team before home sickness got the better of him and he returned to the state’s Central West.

That moment, Naden admits, changed everything.

“I couldn’t convince my brother to stay here and give it a better crack because I wasn’t giving it a real crack at the time either – I didn’t have a leg to stand on,” he said.

“So, I thought I’d knuckle down and try and live my dream of playing in the NRL, so I have a leg to stand on in the future and be a good role model to my family.”

Naden trained during the pre- season with Penrith’s NRL squad before beginning the season proper in Canterbury Cup. Following injuries to experienced centres Dean Whare and Waqa Blake in first grade, Naden won a surprise call-up to the NRL in Round 12 against Manly.

Five games in, Naden has already scored

four NRL tries including a match winner, and is yet to experience a loss.

Naden admitted he thought his ship of playing in the NRL had sailed but was proud to make his debut.

“It’s funny how rugby league works, six months ago I was working on the NBN,” Naden said.

“It may seem like everything has happened so quickly but I’ve been working a long time for it.

“I started my junior footy here, played U20s and then moved away and came back. As a black fella would say ‘he went walkabout and found his way back home’.

I’m proud to call Penrith my home for the next two seasons.”

Fortunately for Panthers supporters, the best of Naden is still to come. If he continues to remain disciplined and manages to lay off the cheeseburgers, popcorn chicken and Original Glazed, the sky’s well and truly the limit.

Panthers put competition on notice

ANDY RAYMOND T

he Penrith Panthers are closing in on a piece of history that will have their fans licking their lips heading into September.

This weekend the Panthers have the chance to enter seventh heaven when they take on the Dragons in a Friday night blockbuster at Panthers Stadium.

If the Panthers perform the way they did in last Friday night’s 24-2 mauling of the Gold Coast Titans, they’ll be one win away from equaling their best ever winning streak.

The Panthers stormed their way to the top of the ladder in 2003 with a record eight straight wins, a streak which ultimately led them all the way to a grand final win over the Roosters.

The Panthers side of 2003 is not unlike the squad of 2019, they had livewire players like Preston Campbell and Rhys Wesser, metre-eaters in the outside backs like Luke Lewis and Luke Rooney, and hard- nosed forwards like Tony Puletua, Scott Sattler and Martin Lang.

This year’s squad has livewire players like James Maloney and Dylan Edwards, they have metre- eaters in the outside

The Panthers show some gritty defence against Gold Coast. Photo: Megan Dunn backs like Josh Mansour and Dean Whare and they have hard- nosed forwards like James Tamou, James Fisher- Harris and Isaah Yeo. The return of Nathan Cleary is also a

timely boost for the Panthers with Ivan Cleary no doubt hoping that his son and Maloney can find the form that saw them both back in the Origin arena this season.

Like the side of 2003, the 2019 Panthers

side is somewhat flying under the radar and not considered a genuine premiership threat by many, but the way they’ve gone about their business for the last six weeks should have every NRL side on notice.

In the last six weeks the Panthers have shown true grit, composure and determination to defeat top eight rivals, Manly, Souths and the Roosters, and they showed last week against a disappointing Titans outfit that they also have the ability to blow sides off the paddock.

On Friday night they’ll come up against a Dragons side which may be out of sorts, but who will be desperate for a win.

In Corey Norman, Tyson Frizell, Paul Vaughan and Tariq Sims, they have Origin class across the paddock.

They’ll be smarting following their last start loss to the Raiders and know that every loss from here on out will be fatal to their Finals hopes.

It makes for another gripping Friday night showdown, but with the way the Panthers are playing at the moment I’m tipping them to enter seventh heaven and set up a record equaling battle against the Raiders next weekend.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 19, 2019

Brought to you by

Contact us for a free planning guide to give you and your family peace of mind.

Part of the local community

Ph: 02 9826 2273 or visit www.kempscreekcemetery.com.au

WW36245

35

155

153

151

151

151

AUSSIE ST MARYS 9673 3333

HERTZ 4731 6344

ROBERT HENRY STATEWIDE REALTY 0418 650 579

YORK JEWELLERS 4721 0780

ST MARYS PROFESSIONALS 02 9673 4422

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Bulldogs Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Eels

Bulldogs Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Bulldogs Sharks Panthers Knights

Tigers Rabbitohs Storm Eels

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

CHARBEL GEAGEA

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

STEPHEN GRINGHUIS

Tigers Rabbitohs Storm Eels

KIM RILEY

Bulldogs Sharks Panthers Knights

KATE RADCLIFFE

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Eels

LUKE BELOTTI

155

FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES 4704 8585

Bulldogs Sharks Panthers Roosters

ROSS FOWLER

157

SYNERGY FINANCIAL SERVICES 4732 6555

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

KEITH WILSON

157

THE AGENCY REAL ESTATE 0401 560 116

Bulldogs Warriors Panthers Knights

IAN GARTON

157

SUPREMACY FUNERALS 4721 2020

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

BILL MCDEED

STEVE SUTTON DONNA HILDON

159

WORKIN’ GEAR 4731 4707

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

NATHAN TAYLOR

36

TERRY HANSEN

DOUGLAS ELY

ROBERT HENRY

TEENA EDWARDS

KIM HORAN

ALEX MCKENZIE

SHANAKA DE SILVA

NICK RIGAS

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS

149

149

149

147

147

147

147

145

145

145

KELLY PARTNERS 4721 7433

STARR PARTNERS PENRITH 0421 384 810

CATHOLIC CEMETARIES 9826 2273

RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL PENRITH 0417 228 587

MACQUARIE COMMERCIAL 0402 896 906

FOWLER AND CO 4722 3066

IRRESISTIBLE POOLS & SPAS 4776 1118

GARTON GROUP MCDONALD’S 4721 2992

GOTZINGER SMALL GOODS 0418 594 791

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

Bulldogs Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Titans Sea Eagles

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Eels

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Eels

Bulldogs Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Sharks Dragons Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

139

137

137

137

LENDCORP FOR FINANCE MADE EASY! 4722 2800

HARVEY NORMAN BEDDING 0401 505 140

EZRVEND 0414 254 074

TRESAMI COMPUTER ENGINEERING 1300 318 444

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Bulldogs Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

Bulldogs Warriors Dragons Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

TREVOR LE BRETON

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

MICHAEL ASHTON

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Eels

TROY DODDS

Broncos Sharks Dragons Roosters

AARON TYERS

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

PAUL NEWTON

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

MATT BOND

139

MACQUARIE ACCOUNTANTS 4731 5628

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Eels

HELENA CRUMPTON

139

BRICKS & MORTAR REAL ESTATE 0406 277 417

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

BARNEY ALLAM

141

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT 4732 2195

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

JOHN TODD

143

VISION PAINTING & DECORATING 0404 459 600

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

CHRIS GROSS

ANTHEA STRATHDEE KANE TOWNS HANS BOR VICTOR GLANVILLE SALLY MUIRHEAD CHRIS AYLING ANTON HEARN PETER ANDERSON DERRY O’DONOVAN LEE BANISTER

145

TOWNS CRANES 0487 272 819

Raiders Cowboys Titans Sea Eagles

135

135

133

133

133

133

129

127

121

121

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Eels

Bulldogs Sharks Panthers Knights

Tigers Rabbitohs Storm Eels

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

AT PRINT 4731 5055

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Cowboys Storm Sea Eagles

LEISURE POOLS 1300 SPLASH

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

BONDYS AUTO CENTRE 4731 4019

Broncos Warriors Dragons Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Eels

Bulldogs Sharks Panthers Knights

Tigers Rabbitohs Storm Eels

Broncos Sharks Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

Raiders Rabbitohs Storm Sea Eagles

Bulldogs Sharks Dragons Roosters

Tigers Rabbitohs Titans Sea Eagles

HOTONDO HOMES 0403 723 486

CC TYRES 4731 4822

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

PROPERTY CENTRAL 0415 119 019

ALLAM PROPERTY GROUP 4732 2422

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS CENTRE 4721 5011

VISION PERSONAL TRAINING 4742 5079

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 19, 2019

145

LOWER MOUNTAINS AIR CONDITIONING 4735 6411

Broncos Warriors Panthers Roosters

37

38

WW37992

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender

Is the NRL competition really a level playing field?

CLINTON MAYNARD T

he beauty of the NRL competition is when you go to the football your team has a chance of winning. For years now the competition has been so even each season, virtually every team has a chance of beating their opposition on any given day.

That wasn’t the case back in the 1980s and early ‘90s. Clubs such as Brisbane and Canberra were so dominant, when your team faced them they didn’t have much of a chance, and if you supported Illawarra or Wests you knew you’d usually finish on the bottom of the ladder each season.

The salary cap era has brought fans what we are told, is one of the most even professional sporting competitions in the world.

Compare the NRL to the English Premier League where there is more competition for teams to be promoted and relegated than actually winning the title.

On the surface this year’s competition is as even as it’s ever been. Only six points or three wins separate teams three and 11.

Last weekend we saw the Roosters, the Premiers, beaten by three points by the Cowboys who have sat outside the eight all season, a one point win to Souths over

Manly and a draw between the Broncos and Warriors.

However I’d argue the close nature of week to week football is hiding the truth, which is that the salary cap is not delivering a truly even competition.

Melbourne are six points ahead on the ladder and seemingly a lock for the Minor Premiership. The Storm have played in the last three grand finals and few would bet against them making a fourth.

Since 2011 the only team other than Melbourne or the Roosters to win the Minor Premiership has been Canterbury in 2012. The Storm also finished on top of the ladder in ‘06, ’07 and ‘08.

While a handful of other teams have come from the top four to win the competition, it has been a remarkable period of dominance for the Storm and Roosters and indicates the competition is not as even as the NRL would make out.

That is not to take away from the achievements of the Storm and Roosters, they are the most professionally run clubs in the competition, however it shows the salary cap is more about preventing clubs going broke than creating an even competition.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 19, 2019

Brought to you by

The Panthers and Roosters doing battle earlier this year. Photo: Megan Dunn

Every game of every round

LIVE with no ad-breaks during play

I want it all Every game No ad-breaks during play Dedicated channel Entertainment shows 4K Ultra HD*

*Selected matches only. 4K Ultra HD requires iQ4, compatible 4K TV and Sports + HD packs. Foxtel marks used under licence by Foxtel Management Pty Ltd.

WW36933

39

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

Storm

16

14

0

2

1

415

199

+216 30

2 Rabbitohs

16

11

0

5

1

356

264

+92

3 Raiders

16 10

0

6

1

339

236 +103 22

4 Roosters

16 10

0

6

1

371

277

+94

5 Sea Eagles

16

9

0

7

1

331

288

+43 20

6 Eels

16

9

0

7

1

363

340

+23 20

7 Knights

16

8

0

8

1

335

286

+49

18

8 Panthers

16

8

0

8

1

239

310

-71

18

9 Sharks

16

7

0

9

1

322

330

-8

16

CLUB

1

+/-

PTS

24

22

10 Cowboys

16

7

0

9

1

267

324

-57

16

11 W. Tigers

16

7

0

9

1

283

343

-60

16

12 Warriors

16

6

1

9

1

300

335

-35

15

13 Broncos

16

6

1

9

1

273

337

-64

15

14 Dragons

16

6

0

10

1

287

365

-78

14

15 Bulldogs

16

5

0

11

1

210

364

-154

12

16 Titans

16

4

0

12

1

266

359

-93

10

FACE IN THE CROWD

Round 18

/ / / / / / / /

Thursday, July 18 7.50pm Suncorp Stadium Friday, July 19 6pm Westpac Stadium

Friday, July 19 7.55pm Panthers Stadium Saturday, July 20 3pm SCG

IS THIS YOU?

Saturday, July 20 5.30pm GIO Stadium

Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game?

If it is, you’ve won a Hoyts Family Movie Pass to use at any Hoyts Cinema in Australia! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Saturday, July 20 7.35pm 1300 Smiles Stadium

Extra Time Issue Number 2019-001

Sunday, July 21 2pm Cbus Super Stadium

PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Sunday, July 21 4.05pm Lottoland

CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Clinton Maynard / Andy Raymond SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi / 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

8BT

/PX

r Get you ng yri FREE Ke e!

Instor

It’s Time to Winterise!

40

P: 4735 5322

Pool Magic Phosphate Remover Range: One Shot Phosphate Tablets

Ultra Pure Phosphate e Granules

Liquid Phosphate Remover

Quick Dissolve Phosphate P Tablets

WW37489

2/133 Russell St,Emu Plains

Remember to strip out all PHOSPHATES from your pool water before winter starts.

Algae feeds on Phosphates!

Panthers hit rock bottom Some years, it’s easy to predict what the season ahead is going to bring.

There’s a feeling around the place; an indication of sorts on whether there will be smiles or tears come September.

In 2001, off the back of a successful 2000 season, everyone expected the Panthers to do well. Nobody could have predicted that Penrith would finish with the wooden spoon – but that’s exactly what happened, and it would set off a chain of events that would eventually rock the club.

Showing just how high expectations were in 2001, club legend Steve Carter had knocked back big money in England because he believed the club was a realistic hope of winning the title.

Things started to look shaky in the trials when Melbourne thumped Penrith 40- 18 and an emerging Tony Puletua suffered a serious knee injury that would put him out for an extended period.

In round one, Penrith were totally outplayed by arch rivals Parramatta, going down 40- 4. To make matters worse, star centre Ryan Girdler was injured in the capitulation.

A 38-22 loss to Brisbane followed, then a 42- 34 defeat to the Northern Eagles at Penrith Stadium. The Panthers were leaking points big time.

Chris Hicks scores a rare try in 2001 It wasn’t until round 4 that Penrith finally put a win on the board, downing North Queensland 32-18.

Two straight home losses followed – to the Bulldogs and Sharks – and with just one win from the opening six rounds, it was obvious that pre- season expectations were unlikely to be met.

With the side struggling, club officials were becoming aware of growing angst in the playing group, and with a host of stars off contract at the end of the

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 19, 2019

Panther Flashback

SCOREBOARD

season, they moved to offer stability by re-signing coach Royce Simmons for two years.

It worked. Top priorities Ryan Girdler and Scott Sattler re- signed with the club, Girdler sticking around because he believed the club would win a premiership within three years. Craig Gower also re- signed, shunning an offer from the Bulldogs.

On the field, occasional wins were overshadowed by horrific losses, including a 52-8 defeat to the Warriors at Ericsson Stadium in round 9 and a 58-14 thrashing at the hands of Melbourne in round 11 at Penrith Stadium.

It was Simmons’ press conference following the Warriors game that really summed up where the season was heading.

“There’s blokes down there in that room crying. They’re sitting there, grown men, crying,” he said.

The year then descended into a farce when on August 7, two members of the Panthers’ Board met with the players without Simmons, and asked them to air their grievances.

It was the beginning of the end for Simmons’ coaching at the Panthers.

After a 60-18 defeat to Newcastle in the final round, the final nail was placed in the coffin and it was confirmed that Simmons would move on.

NRL

PANTHERS 24 TITANS 2

NSW CUP

PANTHERS BYE

JERSEY FLEGG PANTHERS BYE

BEHIND THE PANTHERS Formerly with Coast to Coast The Golden Roast Sydney

We are mobile oven roast specialists.

Our succulent roasts will leave you wan ng more (and there’s always more). Our generous por ons will leave your guests sa sfied.

NRL Physiotherapist HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR PANTHERS? Reaching the end of my third season.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WORKING FOR PANTHERS? Being part of a big family where there is constant support, world-class resources and an unspoken work ethic that demands success.

WHO IS YOUR FUNNIEST COLLEAGUE AT PANTHERS? Alan Mair (Mairsy). He’s the ultimate journeyman in rugby league circles, who combines an exhaustive knowledge of the game with a wicked sense of humour.

Call us for all of your catering needs!

Glenmore Park | P: 0433 970 818 chrisƟne@aussiegrowncatering.com.au aussiegrowncatering.com.au

WW37930

Pete Green

Our fully trained staff arrive professionally dressed 4 hours prior to your func on serving me, they prepare, cook, serve and clean up, leaving your venue spotless. The only way you’ll know we were there is because of your guests full bellies.

41

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender • extra time

EXTRA MINUTES  The Gold Coast Titans are searching for a new coach after sacking Garth Brennan earlier this week. Plenty of names are in the mix including Anthony Griffin, Geoff Toovey and even brothers Shane and Ben Walker. Kevin Walters remains in the discussions, despite all but ruling himself out of the job earlier this week.

“While the on-field results have not been what we hoped for, Garth will still leave a tremendous legacy for this club with his contribution to the creation of our development systems and pathways,” Titans Chairman Dennis Watt said.

 Fox League enjoyed mega ratings

thanks to Cameron Smith’s 400th NRL game and a golden point thriller last Saturday. Fox League’s coverage of the Storm v Sharks match ranked as the channel’s third highest rating regular season game ever. Saturday afternoon’s thrilling 18-all extra time draw between the Brisbane Broncos and New Zealand Warriors also drew record audiences, with an average of 328,000 viewers watching the match, including 457,000 watching on TV at 7.25pm during extra time. The match was the second most watched Saturday afternoon game this season. The ratings for both matches helped deliver Fox League its second best day ever with a massive

16.03 per cent share of viewing on Foxtel on Saturday.



Talking of ratings, while figures for this year’s State of Origin series on Channel Nine were down, streaming numbers skyrocketed. All of the key figures were up by significant percentages across the 9NOW streaming platform.



Canberra centre Nick Cotric has been suspended for three matches after taking an early guilty plea to a Dangerous Throw charge. Cotric was sent off for the ugly tackle on St George-Illawarra’s Tim Lafai in Wollongong on Sunday night.



Belinda Sharpe is the first woman to referee an NRL match after being handed the whistle to partner Ben Cummins for the clash between the Broncos and Bulldogs at Suncorp Stadium.



The NRL’s Graham Annesley may have the answer to the shocking refereeing bungles we’ve seen in recent weeks – change the rules! “At the end of the year we have got the Competition Committee meeting again and one of things that I think we need to spend a fair bit of time on is examining our current rules and whether we can actually make the game

Garth Brennan and the Gold Coast Titans have parted ways. Photo: Megan Dunn easier to officiate,” Annesley said on Monday.

 Warriors legend Manu Vatuvei has

formally announced his retirement from rugby league. Last month, it was revealed that a brain cyst had ended Vatuvei’s chances of launching a boxing career.

BEAUTIFUL SIMPLE FAREWELLS 4735 6900

gracefunerals.com.au

Formerly Lady of Grace Funerals

PENRITH | BLUE MOUNTAINS | WESTERN SYDNEY

42

WW38277

the western weekender » Friday, July 19, 2019

This month brings some exciting news to the local community, with Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital relocating to bigger premises. The vet has moved from 377 Wentworth Road to 49 Wentworth Road in Orchard Hills and are now just further down the road.

With many customers travelling from Emu Plains, Leonay, Emu Heights and the Lower Blue Mountains with their pets, the new premises have been renovated to accommodate a veterinary hospital. The premises are huge! There are double brick walls, 3m high ceilings and a green, bull-nosed verandah around the front of the building.

They even have a concrete driveway and car park.

There is an off-leash park in the front yard for you and your dogs to enjoy.

Camille purchased the veterinary hospital business nearly 9 years ago and there has been steady and continual growth of the business in this time. They started off with four staff and have now grown to 16 staff members and have definitely outgrown their previous premises.

This is a wonderful achievement for a successful, local small business.

They are so excited and cannot wait for you to visit their large country practice! The staff look forward to meeting you and your pets at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, so please feel free to pop in anytime and meet the team.

For more information, you can find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ orchardhillsvethospital, visit their website at www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call them on 4736 2027.

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027

WW38276

camille@orchardhillsvet.com.au www.orchardhillsvet.com.au

43

Friday, July 19, 2019 « the western weekender

Social media management without the stress Your social media profiles managed from just $160 per week

FACEBOOK MANAGEMENT

O THER PLATFORMS

Sit back and focus on your business, and let MTM Digital handle your Facebook page.

We’ll arrange regular and consistent posts, plus manage your inbox communication and other elements of your page.

Need help with Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn? What about a regular newsletter to your valued clients and supporters? We can do it all. Talk to us about your social media and digital needs today.

“MTM Digital has taken the pressure off our business when it comes to staying relevant on social media. They have done an excellent job building our presence and generating interest” Rod Matthew, KSR Autobody

EMAIL SOCIAL@MTMDIGITAL.COM.AU OR VISIT WWW.MTMDIGITAL.COM.AU

44

WW35834