Warriors v Roosters, Broncos v Panthers scores, results, time, program, entertainment, tips, odds, weather, how to watch
Penrith’s dynasty is very much alive and kicking after their proven stars scored a dominant 26-0 victory over upset defensive leaders Brisbane.
The Panthers led the incompetent Broncos 18-0 in the first half at Suncorp Stadium under the command of the “Big Three” of Dylan Edwards, Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo.
Fellow four-time title winner Brian To’o also put in a superb performance on the wing in front of a mostly silent 45,566 fans.
The match was like a throwback to the 2021-2024 championship years.
Brisbane came back from six deficits of 10 or more points en route to last year’s title but the home team made constant mistakes, looked slow and were upset by the high ball.
These sides played two of the most memorable finals of recent years. The Panthers came back from the dead to win the 2023 grand final 26-24 and the Broncos, who trailed 14-0 at half-time, won 16-14 in last year’s preliminary final in Brisbane.
Penrith celebrate Casey McLean try.Credit: Getty Images
There was a sense of “old determination” to the good things the Panthers were doing.
Edwards started the season fast, clearly outplaying opposition player Reece Walsh, who barely made an appearance. Edwards’ desire, elusiveness and tempo were adjusted, and the Panthers looked much better as a result.
Lock Yeo dominated the middle of the pitch and Cleary, who organized the half, kept things in check, particularly with his effective kicking game.
Penrith center Casey McLean scored the first goal after late inclusion winger Thomas Jenkins leaped onto Walsh following a Cleary bomb.
Brisbane winger Deine Mariner was shocked and struggled under Cleary’s high balls. One of his spills turned out to be costly.
Vice-captain Cleary, in his 100th match as captain, gave the ball early to Edwards, who came forward with great pace.
It was young five-eighth Blaize Talagi who took the midfield shot for Jenkins to score in the 40th minute.
Loading
The Broncos kept themselves in with their defensive efforts alone. Their attacks were terrible.
Coach Michael Maguire had named Ben Hunt on the bench but started him ahead of Ezra Mam at five-eighth. The move didn’t work. The backbone of the Broncos was never connected. Walsh was frequently attacked by gangs.
Center Kotoni made a nifty pass that Staggs almost scored but McLean’s desperate defending saved the day.
Throwing a cracker, Jenkins intercepted Walsh’s pass and scored his second try to complete the lead.
AAP
