Extra Time July 7

Brought to you by…

SEASON ON THE LINE P E N R ITH ' S f i na ls h o p es b eg i n to fa d e

MASKED PANTHER > P34 | JAMIE SOWARD > P39 | STATE OF ORIGIN FEATURE > P40-41

Friday, July 7, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

KATOA'S BIG WEEK

Hooker Sione Katoa has re-signed until the end of 2019

» It was a whirlwind few days for young

Panthers hooker Sione Katoa last week.

The 22-year-old re-signed with the Panthers for two more seasons last Thursday, and a couple of days later earned a call-up to replace an ill Mitch Rein in the side to play the Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium.

Katoa’s new contract will see him remain with the Panthers until at least the end of the 2019 season. A former Junior Kiwis representative, Katoa was appointed captain of the Panthers Intrust Super Premiership NSW side in 2017. He’s now played three first grade matches.

» Panthers boss Phil Gould has taken the

extraordinary step of opening up about rumours surrounding former five-eighth Te Maire Martin, speaking with Fairfax’s Danny Weidler last Sunday. The rumour surrounds Martin sleeping with a Penrith teammate’s partner, and has been doing the rounds of the rugby league world for the last few months. It is untrue, as we have pointed out in this column previously. “I don’t usually respond to rumours, however this particular accusation against Te Maire has been most vicious, scurrilous and hurtful,” Gould said. “I seriously question the motivation and integrity of those who started this rubbish.” Gould said the playing group

gathered to discuss the matter after the rumour started to gain more traction.

“We had a conversation and the players dismissed it and said they wanted to support Te Maire,” Gould said. “It all started with a couple of media types who are desperate for a story when he missed a couple of games through injury. It somehow became him being stood down because of an affair. I can’t emphasise enough how wrong this is and I am speaking out today because of the hurt it has caused him and his family.” Gould’s stance is admirable however it should be pointed out that the rumour itself was largely spread by fans (many of them Penrith fans) and not the media. Gould himself brought up the rumour of “a player sleeping with another player’s wife” at a Member’s Forum earlier this year and tried to shut it down there and then, but many fans persisted with spreading it.

» A number of Penrith players re-lived

their childhood last week, jumping at the chance to buy the new ‘Crash Bandicoot’ game on PS4.

» Michael Oldfield has joined a long list of players who have only made one appearance for the Penrith club. The 26-year-old outside back was released last week to

take up an opportunity with Canberra. He made his one appearance for the Panthers against Souths at Pepper Stadium earlier this year, scoring a try on his club debut.

He was an ever-reliable performer for Penrith in the Intrust Super Premiership, scoring five tries in 12 games.

» Panthers winger Josh Mansour is a

huge English Premier League fan and is so pumped about his side Arsenal’s visit to Australia this month that he’s extended an invitation to the squad to visit Penrith and the club’s $22 million Academy. It’d be a huge coup for the Panthers if Mansour manages to convince the Gunners to head west.

» The Panthers are poised to announce

that OAK has signed an extended deal to remain the club’s major sponsor for a number of future seasons. Meanwhile, I’m told that Pepper is close to signing a new deal that would see them retain the naming rights of Penrith Stadium for another couple of seasons.

» A number of players supported Glen-

more Park Brumbies and their Mega Rump Challenge at the Silver Spur restaurant last weekend. Peter Wallace, Bryce Cartwright, Sione Katoa, Dean Whare and

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak all dropped by to show their support, but most failed to finish the epic challenge.

» Panthers forward Trent Merrin may be

investing in the Where’s Wally franchise after taking part in a unique social media experiment on Tuesday. The former NSW Origin star went live on Facebook and Instagram, gradually revealing his location until the first fan managed to track him down. The winner took home a pair of signed boots.

» Fox League continues to make huge

inroads, attracting an average audience of 217,000 for last Sunday’s clash between the Panthers and Rabbitohs. It’s an incredible result when you consider the free-to-air broadcast on Channel Nine attracted 291,000.

» What are they smoking over at the

TAB? On Monday, Penrith were installed as favourites to beat Manly despite the respective performances of both sides last weekend and their current positions on the ladder. When Daly Cherry-Evans was left out of the Queensland side, the Sea Eagles’ odds shortened slightly but the TAB still has the game evenly split, with both teams paying $1.90.

CC TYRES is a local family-owned independent business established more than 60 years ago We supply many local businesses, Fleet companies, Government and Trade contracts. Selling all Tyre Brands, we supply and fit for Cars, Trucks, 4X4, Trailers, and Farm and Plant machinery.

We stock all major brands of tyres and wheels.

The latest equipment for larger wheel and run flat tyres.

Using the latest equipment such as: Premium inflation systems for clean dry air & the newest CAMERA Alignment for the best possible result.

WW26913

30

• Tyre sales • Wheel alignment (standard • Tyre puncture repairs (all tyres) • Wheel sales front, front and rear, full • Road Service for on site equipment inc backhoes, • Wheel balancing thrust alignment) bobcats, trucks, tractors etc

MATCH PREVIEW

FINALS TIGHTROPE PANTHERS V SEA EAGLES | SATURDAY, JULY 8 • 5.30PM | PEPPER STADIUM | REFEREES: HENRY PERENARA & CHRIS JAMES

PANTHERS 1

Dylan Edwards

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 20

Josh Mansour Tyrone Peachey Waqa Blake Dallin Watene-Zelezniak Matt Moylan (c) Nathan Cleary James Tamou Mitch Rein Reagan Campbell-Gillard Corey Harawira-Naera Isaah Yeo Trent Merrin Sione Katoa 15 Leilani Latu Tim Browne Sitaleki Akauola Kaide Ellis 19 J Fisher-Harris Viliame Kikau 21 J Cartwright

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 7, 2017

Brought to you by…

SEA EAGLES

Nathan Cleary after Sunday’s thrashing to Souths

TROY DODDS @troydodds

F

lights to the Goldie for less than $100. Los Angeles for only $996.

A Fiji package deal that will blow your mind.

These are just some of the Flight Centre offers the Panthers may be interested in booking this September.

They won’t be doing anything else, that’s (almost) for sure.

Maybe I’ll have egg on my face come Finals time but after last week’s 42-14 capitulation to Souths at ANZ Stadium, I’m struggling to see the Panthers winning the required six or seven games that would have them playing in the post-season.

If they haven’t found their groove by

Round 17, it’s unlikely it’ll be found in the next nine weeks. And the chances of playing Finals footy could well evaporate in the next fortnight with tough games against Manly and the Warriors on the agenda.

On the Triple M coverage last weekend, Ryan Girdler called Penrith’s performance “unproductive” – a good summation of where the side is at right now. They didn’t appear interested in wrestling back momentum once it had been lost mid-way through the first half, and were completely out-enthused and out-played by a side that has been poor for most of the year.

Manly played in tough conditions over in Perth last weekend and there’s no doubt their preparation for this game would have been impacted by such a long road trip, but Penrith will need more than that on their side to beat the third placed team this weekend.

Down 16-0 against the Warriors, the Sea Eagles found the grit and determination that Penrith lack to eventually wrestle control of the game and collect the two competition points.

The Sea Eagles have developed a killer attitude under Trent Barrett this year and are starting to really hit their straps at the right time of the season, and while their forwards have been impressive enough it’s their backs that have really been doing the hard yards and shining through in the stats. Tom Trbojevic and Dylan Walker in particular should be on coach Anthony Griffin’s whiteboard this week.

With Josh Mansour being found out by the high ball twice in the last fortnight, you can expect Daly Cherry-Evans to target his wing with a few big bombs on Saturday night.

Cherry-Evans is surely in line for a big game given he has a point to prove to

1

Tom Trbojevic

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 19

Matthew Wright Dylan Walker Brian Kelly Akuila Uate Blake Green Daly Cherry-Evans Brenton Lawrence Apisai Koroisau Martin Taupau Frank Winterstein Jarrad Kennedy Darcy Lussick Cameron Cullen Lloyd Perrett 16 Shaun Lane A Fonua-Blake 18 J Wright J Hastings 20 Brad Parker

Queensland selectors after being left out of the Origin decider.

Manly are certain to have a good crack at Penrith’s right-side defence too given how easily it seemed to open up against the Rabbitohs.

Penrith were dealt some bad news earlier this week with Dean Whare suffering a broken jaw, but Tyrone Peachey comes into his centre spot and the energetic utility has been desperate for more game time, so the pieces fit together well.

James Fisher-Harris also looks set to return via the bench.

Penrith need to win this more than Manly, but I’m not convinced the Panthers are playing anywhere near well enough at the moment to snag a victory, even if the Sea Eagles are a little off their game.

Last Sunday’s loss to Souths would have been extremely confidence-sapping.

Tip: Sea Eagles by 10.

31

Friday, July 7, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE

BACKING GRIFFIN NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

P

enrith players have thrown their support behind embattled coach Anthony Griffin despite a number of disgruntled fans calling for his head after last Sunday’s thrashing at the hands of South Sydney.

Fans have had an on-again, off-again love affair with Griffin since he joined the club ahead of the 2016 season.

Right now, the knives are well and truly out.

It was only a matter of weeks ago that Griffin was on the verge of being delivered a two-year contract extension but back to back losses, including a 28-point defeat to the lowly Rabbitohs, has put that plan – or at least any announcement – on ice.

Speaking on Monday afternoon, Penrith prop James Tamou said the criticism of

Griffin wasn’t warranted and fans should find someone else to blame.

“Everyone is always going to have an opinion, you just have to take it,” he told Extra Time.

“I don’t think he (Griffin) has too much to worry about; he’s loved by the players.

It’s just us on the field, we just have to turn up.

“After yesterday, the finger should be pointed at us and we have to turn it around this weekend.”

Interchange forward Tim Browne agreed with his teammate and former Origin star, labelling Griffin an “inspiration”.

“It’s just the nature of this game, everyone’s in the limelight and when things are going wrong everyone is going to point the finger at someone,” he said.

“Hook’s got some tough skin and he doesn’t let it translate down to the playing group either. He’s an inspiration.”

Meanwhile, one player taking the sole blame for Penrith’s loss to the Rabbitohs

Panthers coach Anthony Griffin and captain Matt Moylan after last weekend’s loss was captain Matt Moylan. The 26-yearold’s awful pass in the 17th minute led to an Alex Johnston intercept and the first of an avalanche of tries.

After the game the Penrith skipper took much of the blame but his teammates rallied behind him.

“Moyza came up to myself and a few of the boys and took [the blame] on his own,” Tamou recalled.

“It’s an 80 minute game, there are 13 of us on the field, and he was just doing what a captain does. But it wasn’t his fault, not at all. He has nothing to apologise for as far as I’m concerned.”

Last weekend’s loss makes Penrith’s task of making back to back Finals – for the first time since the 2003 and 2004 seasons – even tougher.

Needing to win at least six of the remaining nine games to have a chance of scraping into the top eight, Tamou said the belief amongst the playing group took a big hit on Sunday.

“The belief is shaken at the moment… we took a step backwards yesterday,” Tamou said.

“After a scoreline like that, it’s always tough, and we’re just making it harder for ourselves to get into the top eight.”

WW24699

32

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 7, 2017

33

WW28899

Friday, July 7, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE

FUN AND FOOTY NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

J

ust 24 hours after the horrific loss to South Sydney, Panthers players put on a brave face on Monday afternoon while conducting a juniors skills and drills clinic at the Rugby League Academy.

Despite the odd comment or two from upset young fans about Sunday’s horrible performance, the entire NRL squad took it all in their stride as more than 200 local juniors braved chilly and wet conditions to be amongst their football heroes.

“Some kids were pretty harsh,” James Tamou laughed.

“Nah, they were alright.

“It’s good to see them having fun and putting a smile on their faces. It puts smiles on our faces too.

“I applaud what the club is doing and I think there should be more of it.”

The inaugural ‘Play Like A Panther’ clinic, which featured hundreds of local players from Penrith District Junior Rugby League competitions, was deemed an overwhelming success.

Following the clinic, kids were able to obtain autographs and a selfie, proving there’s more to footy than on field results.

Panthers prop Tim Browne said mingling with young fans was helpful in taking their minds off things.

“Despite the loss being fresh in the memory bank, it’s good to get out with the kids and put smiles on their faces and have some fun,” he said.

“It was good to try and forget about what happened yesterday.”

Club officials and players will be hoping many of those young up and comers will be in attendance this Saturday night for Penrith’s first game at Pepper Stadium since Round 10.

Junior players took part in a special clinic with Panthers players on Monday afternoon The match against the high flying Manly Sea Eagles could make or break the club’s chances of making the post-season.

“It feels like we haven’t been at home for ages,” Browne said.

“We’re looking forward to getting back over the road and playing some good footy.”

The 29-year-old forward put together his best ‘pitch’ to encourage people to brave the cold and put behind the poor recent form, to watch a great game at Pepper Stadium.

“It’s going to be a good night, it’s not going to rain and we’ll put on a good show.

Hopefully we can score some points too,” Browne said.

Following the game, members will have the opportunity to mingle with players on Sunday, from 11am to 1pm, at Panthers Leagues Club.

The NRL squad and coach Anthony Griffin will be in attendance to meet and greet members at the event, before Panthers boss Phil Gould addresses the audience.

It’s sure to be an interesting afternoon.

?

T S U R T U O Y N A WHO C OF PENRITH FOR OVER 14 YEARS T PAR D STE TRU A EN BE S HA ES TIV REDBACK AUTOMO

s ok u s s o d l b n a Fi ace de ion t tit F a on gre mpe for d co MINOR SERVICE an MAJOR SERVICE

ES YOU CAN TRUST REDBACK AUTOMOTIV TO DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME YOU CAN TRUST OUR PRICES AND OUR SERVICE IS SECOND TO NONE ✓ Blue Slips and Pink Slips incl LPG ✓ Loan cars available ✓ Senior discounts apply ✓ All mechanical repairs incl Wheel Alignments ✓ Experienced in all local & European-made vehicles

DEALER BOOK SERVICES (warranty protected) Redback Automotive your trusted family owned local mechanic

AUTOMOTIVES

CALL NOW for Bookings

We Don’t Bite!

34

www.redbackautomotives.com

Ph:

4731 1110

WW29002

Unit 36, 37-47 Borec Road, PENRITH

It’s time to end the decade of dominance once and for all

JAMIE SOWARD

T

his Wednesday night’s State of Origin decider in Brisbane is the most important game in NSW Blues history.

For so long we’ve spoken about Queensland’s dominance in the Origin arena but it’s time to put that to a stop once and for all.

Queensland are a champion team and they proved that once again in Game II when they came back at the death to win.

Nothing is easy when the Maroons are involved.

However, I truly believe this year’s Blues are the better team, but they just lacked some experience in those final few minutes in Sydney to finish the game off.

Even though NSW were in front with six or seven minutes to go, you never really thought they would close the game out – you just knew Queensland would score.

While watching, you had the feeling NSW would lose their way and they did.

Laurie Daley’s men didn’t execute the simple plays at the right time whereas Queensland could.

For three halves of footy, NSW have been the better side.

Earlier this week, NSW named the same 17 as they did in Game I and II for Wednesday’s blockbuster clash. Not since 1996 have the Blues fielded the same team for all three games.

While Queensland, well they again had some more forced changes with Darius Boyd and Johnathan Thurston missing through injury.

There has been a lot of talk this week about Daly Cherry-Evans’ snubbing from the Maroons team and, I must say, I was a tad surprised myself.

It appears Queensland have chosen a team that they feel fits best with their current system and I just don’t think DCE suits their game while Cooper Cronk and co are there.

I thought DCE would make the team, a no-brainer. But to call up Brisbane’s Ben Hunt to debut, they’ve obviously consulted with some of the senior players to come to this decision.

It’s a huge kick in the guts for DCE because he’s been outstanding for Manly this year but I’m sure his Origin career is far from over.

At the end of the day, I don’t really care who Queensland have picked and who is

missing, and neither should NSW. I just want the Blues to go up to Brisbane with the same mentality and ruthlessness as in Game I and do the job. Bring the series home!

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 7, 2017

Brought to you by

I’m heading up to Suncorp Stadium next week to cheer on the boys, let’s hope it’s worth it!

My tip: NSW to win 21-14.

Bring it on!

We transport anything up to 50 tonnes

• General Trade • Machinery • Accident • Prestige Vehicles • Heavy Vehicle up to 12 Ton • Local • Containers

Penrith

4736 4400

• Interstate/Country • Fully Insured • Green Card

St Marys (Division)

• Accredited Drivers • Family Owned & Operated • Ticketed Operations

9623 2020

PENRITH TILT TRAY SPECIALISTS S T M A RY S - P E N R I T H - B L U E M O U N TA I N S

www.dickiestransport.com.au

WW26514

35

Friday, July 7, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

PENRITH BUSINESSES

V

WALKER

1

2

BACKING THE BLUES Penrith’s business community is getting behind the New South Wales Blues! With the third State of Origin game being played next Wednesday night, one lucky business advertising here will walk away with a dinner for 10 at The Bravarian Penrith – if the player they’re sponsoring scores the first Blues try.

Go the Blues!

Dee Barlow Country Brewer Nepean

Anthony Walker BOQ Penrith

A:

A:

218 Great Western Highway, Kingswood Ph: (02) 4731 5444 W: countrybrewer.com.au

77 Station Street, Penrith Ph: (02) 4723 7650 W: boq.com.au

DAVID

STRATHDEE

MUSCAT

3

4

5

David Wilson The Pest Control Shop

Anthea Strathdee Lower Mountains Air Conditioning

Shane Muscat S & L Concrete

A: Penrith Ph: 0433 195 833 W: thepestcontrolshop.com

A:

A: Castlereagh Ph: 0411 704 302 W: slconcrete.com.au

Unit 2/129 Russell Street, Emu Plains Ph: (02) 4735 6411 W: Lmac.com.au

PAUL

6

E

MERSON’S NVIROCARE PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES

EMERSON

MCKINNON

7

8

COMPLETE L E G A L & C O N V E YA N C I N G

Paul Newton Leisure Pools

Richard Emerson’s Envirocare

Daniel McKinnon Complete Legal & Conveyancing

A:

A: Sydney Ph: 4736 8640 W: emersonsenvirocaresydney.com

A:

Unit 3, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown Ph: 1300 SPLASH W: leisurepools.com.au

36

DEE

Suite 11, 3545-360 High Street Penrith Ph: (02) 4704 9991 W: completelaw.com.au

LEATHER BARROW

LAWLER

DONNA

9

10

11

Adam and Danii The Property Co. Nepean

Chris Lawler Chris Lawler Building

Donna Hildon Supremacy Funerals

A:

A: South Penrith Ph: 0405 107 506 W: chrislawlerbuilding.com.au

A:

1/320 High Street, Penrith Ph: (02) 4732 2999 W: thepropertycopenrith.com.au

44 Station Street, Penrith Ph: (02) 4721 2020 W: supremacyfunerals.com.au

MCDEED

TOWNZY

HOMEMAKER

12

13

14

Bill McDeed Gotzinger

Kristi Towns Towns Conveyancing Services

Penrith Homemaker Centre

A:

A:

A: Just off the M4 on Mulgoa Road W: penrithhomemakercentre.com.au

8/53-55 Regentville Road, Penrith Ph: (02) 4721 1611 W: gotzinger.com

P.O. Box 7520 South Penrith Ph: (02) 4731 2483 E: kristi@townsconveyancing.com.au

MATTHEW

MATT

DAVIS

15

16

17

AUTOBODY

When quality matters

S P A• S E R V I C E S

Rod Matthew KSR Autobody

Matt McElhenny Platinum Spa Services

Dean Davis ABL Tile & Bathroom Centre

A:

Ph: 0407 700 981 W: platinumspaservices.com.au

A:

75-81 Cox Avenue, Kingswood Ph: 1300 663 763 W: ksrautobody.com.au

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 7, 2017

BACK THE ‘BLUES’

18 Forthorn Place, St Marys Ph: (02) 9623 0499 W: abltilecentre.com.au WW28199

37

Friday, July 7, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

GRANNY FLATS, DUPLEXES & NEW HOMES Choose a House you Like, Build the Home you Love

125 Batt St, Jamisontown - Open 7 Days 4703 4820 38

Dimensions, photos and floor plans are for illustrative purposes and may include optional features. Hotondo reserve the right to change plans, specifications, materials and suppliers without notice.

WW29004

HOTONDO.COM.AU

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

Storm

16

13

0

3

1

385

249

+136 28

2 Sharks

16

11

0

5

1

326

241

+85

24

3 Sea Eagles

15 10

0

5

2

360

277

+83

24

4 Roosters

16

11

0

5

1

347

296

+51

24

5 Broncos

16 10

0

6

1

343

287

+56

22

6 Cowboys

16 10

0

6

1

332

289

+43

22

7 Dragons

16

9

0

7

1

339

283

+56 20

8 Eels

16

9

0

7

1

295

330

-35

20

9 Panthers

15

6

0

9

2

310

309

+1

16

10 Warriors

16

7

0

9

1

317

343

-26

16

11 Rabbitohs

15

6

0

9

2

300

327

-27

16

12 Raiders

16

6

0

10

1

354

331

+23

14

13 Bulldogs

16

6

0

10

1

220

281

-61

14

14 Titans

16

6

0

10

1

344

406

-62

14

15 W. Tigers

16

4

0

12

1

251

408

-157 10

16 Knights

15

2

0

13

2

250

416

-166

CLUB

1

+/-

PTS

Round 18

/ / / /

FACE IN THE CROWD

Friday, July 7 7.50pm Allianz Stadium

Saturday, July 8 5.30pm Pepper Stadium

Saturday, July 8 7.30pm AAMI Park Sunday, July 9 4pm Belmore Sports Ground

FOR THE LATEST PANTHERS NEWS AND UPDATES, FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @WWPENRITH

8

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 7, 2017

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES

IS THIS YOU? Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game?

If it is, you’ve won a $100 JB HiFi voucher thanks to Penrith Homemaker Centre. To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 019 PRINTED BY Spotpress Pty Ltd / PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Jamie Soward / Warren Smith SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi/ 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

Maxi Buses • • • • • • • •

AIRPORT TRANSFERS CRUISE SHIP TRANSERS WEDDINGS HENS & BUCKS PARTIES CORPRATE FUNCTIONS GOLF / BOYS DAY OUT GIRLS NIGHT OUT CHRISTMAS FUNCTIONS

WW29003

www.maxibuses.com ellen@maxibuses.com

39

Friday, July 7, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

Brought to you by

Is the NRL top eight done and dusted?

WARREN SMITH

T

here’s still two months of the regular season to play, but even this far out there’s a real chance that the teams who will contest the Finals in September have already separated themselves from the rest of the pack.

Round 17 was a disaster for the majority of clubs in the bottom half of the ladder, with only the Rabbitohs and Titans scoring wins out of those that are still in contention for the top eight.

Parramatta, in eighth position, are two wins clear of the Warriors, Panthers and Rabbitohs, and three wins ahead of the Raiders, Bulldogs and Titans.

The Raiders were able to string together 10 wins in a row at the end of the 2016 competition to roar their way into the Finals, but given their form, and the form of the teams around them on the ladder, can anybody see a late season surge from any of the teams who are currently on the outside looking in?

Penrith and Canberra have been massive disappointments so far this season, and their respective performances last weekend, in particular, were a long way off what both teams showed during their

thrilling charge to the playoffs in the 2016 season.

It would be overly optimistic to predict with any confidence that their best form is only a game away, and there’ll be a lot of navel-gazing going on in the football departments of both clubs.

The one glimmer of hope for the teams in the bottom eight is that the Dragons, who started the season playing tremendous football, have hit the wall during the Origin period.

If the Dragons, or the Eels, struggle to get to the finish line between now and

September, then the window will open for one of the chasers.

I’m not prepared to say it will happen, but it is sport after all, and if a school teacher from Brisbane can beat one of the greatest boxers of our time to become a world champion, then anything is possible!

Proudly sponsored by

Support Category for the V8 Supercars Round 4: TOWNSVILLE 400, Qld 7th-9th July

WW28968

S N O I S S E S L AL 40

LIVE

TS 5 R O P S X O F ON

SCOREBOARD

PANTHERS MISS OUT

NRL RABBITOHS 42 PANTHERS 14 Amos Roberts played for Penrith in the 2004 season

W

inning a premiership is one of the most difficult things to do in rugby league.

Winning two of them in a row is nearly impossible.

The Panthers found this out the hard way in 2004, exiting premiership contention just one game short of the Grand Final and leaving the squad wondering what could have been.

After the title success of 2003, expectations were high for another good year.

The squad remained relatively stable and the younger members of the side were only going to get better.

Things got off to a rough start, however, when the Panthers went down 20-14 to Newcastle at Penrith Stadium, stunning the big crowd of 19,936 who turned out to see the game.

The Knights were not coming off a particularly special season, finishing

the Dragons on a Friday night in front of 21,963 fans. It turned out to be a thrilling contest, with a Craig Gower field goal ultimately getting Penrith home 31-30 after the Dragons produced a stunning comeback late in the game.

Penrith had in fact led 24-0 at one stage, and appeared to have the game sewn up at 30-12 before the Dragons fought back. In the end, Gower’s 77th minute field goal was especially crucial – the Panthers didn’t know it at the time, but had they lost that night, their season would have been over – big upsets across the weekend and the controversial finals system at the time meant that the Dragons, despite finishing fifth, were bundled out of the Finals.

The Panthers went into their Grand Final qualifier against the Bulldogs a little underdone, and lost 30-14.

Penrith led 8-4 at the break, but the Bulldogs were simply too good in the second half.

the 2003 regular season in seventh spot, so the loss was a surprise.

Things did get back on track though over the next month, with the Panthers stringing four wins together over the Raiders, Warriors, Roosters and Storm.

It put Penrith back on top of the ladder, but two heavy defeats to the Dragons and Broncos would bring the side back down to Earth.

With just the odd question mark floating around about Penrith’s premiership credentials, the critics were back on board when the side produced three stunning performances to finish the regular season.

First, they thrashed a hapless North Queensland 56-6 at Penrith Stadium, then defeated arch rivals Parramatta 30-20 at Parramatta Stadium. In round 26, the Panthers gave it to Brisbane 46-20 to ensure they finished fourth.

Fourth was enough to give the Panthers a home final, and they played

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

WE

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 7, 2017

BLAST FROM THE PAST

SHOW YOU

WHY..

WHAT..

HOW..

PANTHERS 16 RABBITOHS 16

ISP NSW PANTHERS 17 BEARS 10

panthers on the prowl

Local Business Advisors are ready to assist you with Starting or Running Your Business

WW26020

Two Fully Subsidised & Confidential Appointments Small Business Workshops & Training Offices across Western Sydney & the Blue Mountains Mobile Advisors Available to visit you at your home or business

HOLDEN CUP

02 4721 5011 W W W . W S B U S I N E S S . C O M . A U

The Primary Classroom Program at Panthers on the Prowl has been running continuously for 15 years. We serve local primary schools to assist in the development of social and emotional learning targeted at small groups. Each week we nominate a student of the week from a participating school to highlight their efforts. ts.

s i k e e w e h t f o t n e d Stu Nikki Thill

Basketball Uniform Specialists Quick Delivery & Super Quality www.riverwest.com.au WW26556

The student of the week is brought to you by

WW27511

This week’s student of the week is Nikki Thill. Nikki attends Kingswood Park Public School and has made some pleasing improvements at Panthers on the Prowl. The Primary Program bases a lot of its lessons on the principles of Positive Education. These principles are aimed at helping students not only become better learners but also happier, more resilient and more mindful learners. By emphasising balance and flexibility in their daily lives students can build their capacity for taking on challenges and flourish. Nikki has shown that she has a number of strategies for taking big challenges and has certainly flourished at Panthers on the Prowl.

41

Friday, July 7, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS

Rabbitohs Panthers

164

164

164

ST MARYS PROFESSIONALS 9673 4422

GOTZINGER SMALL GOODS 4721 1611

PREMIERSHIP WINNER

FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES 4704 8585

TERRY HANSEN

BILL MCDEED

JAMIE SOWARD

ALEX MCKENZIE

Eels Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Bulldogs

Roosters Sea Eagles

Storm Bulldogs

162

162

162

162

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT 4732 2195

CC TYRES 4731 4822

TRESAMI COMPUTER ENGINEERING 4731 8444

FOWLER AND CO 4722 3066

VICTOR GLANVILLE

MICHAEL ASHTON

LEE BANISTER

ROSS FOWLER

Roosters Sea Eagles

Roosters Panthers

Storm Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Panthers

Eels Bulldogs

Roosters Sea Eagles

Storm Bulldogs

Roosters Panthers

Storm Bulldogs

158

158

154

154

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 47 22 2998

FOX LEAGUE

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 47 22 2998

MBR REALTY 4732 2888

NATHAN TAYLOR

ANDREW VOSS

TROY DODDS

MICHAEL BALL

Storm Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Knights

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Storm Bulldogs

Roosters Sea Eagles

Eels Bulldogs

154

154

154

152

ALL OFFICE BOOK KEEPING 4733 7751

STANTON & TAYLOR 4731 2899

HARVEY NORMAN 4737 5111

LEISURE POOLS 4735 1585

CAROL COLLETTE

MICHAEL TAYLOR

PETER ANDERSON

PAUL NEWTON

Roosters Panthers

Storm Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Storm Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Knights

Roosters Panthers

Storm Bulldogs

152

148

148

148

SYNERGY FINANCIAL SERVICES 4732 6555

RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL 4722 8500

KELLY PARTNERS 4721 7433

KEMPS CREEK CEMETERY 9826 2273

SHANAKA DE SILVA

KATE RADCLIFFE

CHARBEL GEAGEA

KIM RILEY

Roosters Sea Eagles

42

166

Eels Bulldogs

Roosters Panthers

Storm Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Storm Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

146

146

MACQUARIE ACCOUNTANTS 4731 5628

STATE PENRITH MP 4722 8660

LOWER MOUNTAINS AIR 4735 6411

CHRIS LAWLER BUILDING 0405 107 506

CHRIS AYLING

STUART AYRES

ANTHEA STRATHDEE

CHRIS LAWLER

Storm Bulldogs

Eels Knights

Rabbitohs Panthers

Eels Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Bulldogs

144

144

138

138

PRD NATIONWIDE PENRITH 0414 620 532

GARTON GROUP MCDONALD’S 4721 2992

S&L CONCRETE 0411 704 302

ABL TILE AND BATHROOM CENTRE 9623 0499

DARREN LATTY

IAN GARTON

SHANE MUSCAT

TANYA DAVIS

Eels Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Panthers

Eels Bulldogs

Roosters Panthers

Storm Bulldogs

Roosters Panthers

Storm Knights

138

136

132

132

SUPREMACY FUNERALS 4721 2020

HERTZ 4731 6344

AT PRINT 4731 5055

PENRITH HOMEMAKER CENTRE 4737 9800

DONNA HILDON

TEENA EDWARDS

AARON TYERS

STACEY GLANVILLE

Storm Bulldogs

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Knights

Rabbitohs Panthers

Eels Bulldogs

Roosters Sea Eagles

Storm Knights

132

130

126

120

HOTONDO HOMES 4751 5222

PROPERTY CENTRAL 0410 338 040

VISION PERSONAL TRAINING 4742 5079

A STEP AHEAD FOOT + ANKLE CARE 4732 2007

PAUL SPICER

LEE WATERHOUSE

CHRIS GROSS

BRENDEN BROWN

Eels Knights

116 DICKIES TOWING 4736 4400

NARELLE TUBIE Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Storm Knights

Rabbitohs Panthers

Eels Knights

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Knights

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

Eels Knights

tr ivia 1. In what year did Waqa Blake (pictured) make his City Origin debut?

2. Where did Reagan Campbell-Gillard play his junior footy?

3. In what year did Dallin Watene-Zelezniak make his Test debut?

4. Who is the current CEO of the NRL? 5. Who will captain Queensland in Wednesday’s Origin decider?

ANSWERS: 1. 2015 2. Windsor Wolves 3. 2016 4. Todd Greenberg 5. Cameron Smith

Rabbitohs Sea Eagles

146

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, July 7, 2017

Roosters Panthers

146

43

creative A

U

S

T

R

A

L

I

A

Bringing DESIGNS to Life Penrith City Council - Community Newsletter

PENRITH CITY COMMUNITY NEWS

IN HOUSE graphic design team

The official newsletter of Penrith City Council December 2016 edition

26 January

AUSTRALIA DAY

al n iohere t a rn gis e t In win Ro It’s all he JAMISON PARK | 3PM PM - 8PM

CUSTOM design, production, printing and digital solutions

Grab the kids and enjoy the he free family fun day on 26 January

Help us celebrate our diverse heritage and traditions with free fun for all the family, including Pavlova decorating, games, face painting, bubble soccer, historical and interactive displays and shows, music and performances by Shaun the Sheep and Swamp Dawkins.

Penr ith

1300 736 836

Tailored high quality and PROFESSIONAL output

2017

EE

EXCLUSIVE partnerships with some of Australia’s leading print providers

FR

» Friday, December 16, 2016

FREE EVENT

FAST turn around times

Penrith Civic Centre 601 High Street, Penrith

re in

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ausday

Queen Street Customer Service Centre 207-209 Queen Street, St Marys

Ph: 4732 7777 Fax: 4732 7958 Email: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

/penrith.city.council /penrithcouncil /penrithcitycouncil /penrithcitycouncil

Over a CENTURY of combined design experience

A

Your guid e to t he C ity of Penr ith

Why choose Creative Publishing Australia • We are effective and affordable

• Big and small jobs

• Build brand awareness

• Domestic and international reach

• Utilising the most effective software solutions

• Constant and consistent project support and communication

Our Work & Clients • Bowls NSW Magazine

• It’s all here in Penrith

• TAFE NSW

• Bridal Magazine

• International Rowing Guide

• Road Tech Marine

Call our sales team today on (02) 4722 2998 Alternatively, email us at: sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au

WW27660