Dylan Edwards. Photo: NRL Photos.
MATCH PREVIEW
THE FINAL WORD
They may not have come out and said it directly, but the Panthers certainly weren’t hiding from the fact that they let the headlines get to them in the lead-up to their performance against the Bulldogs last Thursday night.
As Ivan Cleary quipped that players may have been preparing for State of Origin and Isaah Yeo mentioned stories about going through the year undefeated, it was clear that all the euphoria about Penrith being so much better than every other team in the competition had managed to infiltrate the usually insular Panthers playing group.
The loss Penrith needed to have? Not really. But if the team did need to be grounded after such a dominant start to the year, then so be it. The defeat certainly brought home the reality that you do not win competitions in March and
April and that in the NRL, any team can beat you on their day.
Canterbury got plenty right last Thursday and you can’t deny the impact of Cameron Ciraldo knowing this Panthers side so well when it comes to the game plan he implemented. He clearly wanted to start well, get the Panthers on the back foot and stay in their face for the majority of the game. Strangle them, don’t give them room to breathe and make them panic. It worked, but that is not to say every team could get away with it. Penrith will not lay down and let themselves get bullied again and that’s why I fear for the Dolphins this Friday night. Every word spoken this week in preparation would have been about not letting such an ambush happen again. About learning the lessons from the defeat, and correcting the ship in Darwin.
The Dolphins are coming off a bye, though while the early season rest would have been welcomed, there’s no doubt the coach and
playing group would have much preferred to play last week and get that hiding at the hands of Manly a fortnight ago out of their system.
Byes are tough in this first period of the season. You’ve gone through the pre-season preparing for the rigors of week-to-week football and then suddenly you’re forced into a week off. Physically, no team really needs a bye in the first half dozen rounds of the competition and mentally it certainly impacts your preparation.
Still, Redcliffe would have used the week off to refine a few things after an up-and-down start to the season.
They would be desperately trying to capture the form they displayed in Round 3 when they whacked the Sharks 38-10 in one of their best performances since entering the competition.
Unfortunately, that sort of form is far from consistent – and the Dolphins can easily concede over 40 points, as they’ve done against Souths and Manly this year.
The Dolphins will be keen to put on an
impressive showing against the Premiership favourites to prove they have a chance at doing some serious business in the competition this year.
With Casey McLean suspended, Izack Tago plays his first NRL game of the year – and celebrates his 100th first grade match.
As much as McLean has been one of Penrith’s best players this year, the side doesn’t lose a lot with Tago coming up given his Premiership-winning experience.
I wouldn’t say an upset is completely off the cards – when the Dolphins get a roll-on, they can certainly pile on the points and opposition sides can find it difficult to stop the juggernaut. But if the Panthers return to the form they showed in the first month of the competition, and I think they will, I doubt the Dolphins will get the momentum required to pose any real threat to Ivan Cleary’s side. Penrith should skip out to lead early and maintain it.
Tip: Panthers by 14.
Forward eyes new deal at Penrith
Penrith forward Isaiah Papali’i has expressed his desire to stay at the club beyond the end of next season, hopeful that salary cap pressure will not squeeze him out.
The 27-year-old is among a host of Panthers players off-contract at the end of the 2027 season. The list includes his second-row partner Liam Martin as well as co-captains Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo.
Papali’i arrived at Penrith last year after stints with the Warriors, Eels and Tigers but said he feels at home at the foot of the Mountains.
“I’m happy here – I’ve really enjoyed my year and a bit here and personally I’ve seen myself grow,” he said.
“I’d like to stay – I’m just leaving it up to my manager and making sure that I’m performing week-to-week so I have the opportunity to stay here.”
Papali’i said he’s hopeful as many of the ‘27 club’ can re-sign as possible, but understands the pressure the club is under as a result of the
team’s epic success in recent years.
The New Zealand international heads to Darwin this week for the third time in his career – and he’s confident the side has put last week’s shock loss to Canterbury behind them.
“To not get the result was disappointing for us as a playing group”
“Immediately after we were pretty gutted, especially given Nat (Nathan Cleary) had his milestone game,” he said.
“To not get the result was disappointing for us as a playing group – to not be able to celebrate that milestone with a win.
“We came in Monday, did our review, talked about how we felt out there and what was going on – and moved on.”
While the team undertook their usual video review, Papali’i said the real key to understand-
ing what went wrong was simply having a hard conversation about how they approached the game.
“We did a little bit of video but we moreso talked about the mentality we had in that game and the way we played didn’t reflect what we wanted to do and what we talked about through the week,” he said.
“We sat down as a group and talked about it rather than going over film and things like that.”
Papali’i admitted it’s hard to know what to expect from the Dolphins given their up-anddown results this year.
“Coming off the back of a tough loss and a bye, we’re expecting a hard game against them. They’ll be fresh and ready to go,” he said.
“The start will be really important to us.
“I don’t mind going up there to Darwin. It’s quite hot but that’s just a given.
“We are expecting it to be humid. It’s been a few years since I’ve played there. It’s a good track and the field is well-maintained.”
After missing out on giving Cleary a win in his 200th game last week, the team is hopeful of making Izack Tago’s 100th game memorable.
“Izack has been sitting on that 99 for a while now so I’m excited to go out there with him,” he said.
“Hopefully we can get the win so he has good memories from it.”
Isaiah Papali’i at Panthers training on Wednesday. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Isaiah Papali’i chats to Troy Dodds. Photo: Melinda Jane.
TROY DODDS
No panic after attack of the Dogs
Amid a recent loss and speculation about where his future lies, Mitch Kenny has made it clear that his focus remains on his game each week.
The Panthers hooker was one of the best on ground during last week’s loss to the Bulldogs, saying there is no panic at the club following their 32-16 defeat.
“Definitely not panic stations, this is the NRL so to think that you are not going to lose a game every now and then I think is pretty outrageous,” he said.
“A lot of people are probably acting like this is a bigger thing that it should be. You obviously want to win every game and we didn’t do that.
“We gotta review that game and look at where we went wrong and how we can get things back on track, but it’s certainly not panic stations.”
As for an explanation for what went wrong, Kenny laid it out simply.
“Honestly, I think they just came out a little bit hungrier and out enthused us which is a bitter pill to swallow and that’s not a nice thing to admit,” he said.
“But I think it’s important to acknowledge otherwise you won’t grow from it.”
Taking the lessons learnt from the loss, Kenny is looking forward to tomorrow night’s game, where they will take on the Dolphins in Darwin.
“It’s pretty cool that the NRL takes a game there,” Kenny told Extra Time
“I’ve never played a game up there so I’m looking forward to that unique experience and looking forward to playing the Dolphins as well. They are a team that if you come out and you’re not ready to play, they can certainly hurt you.”
While the Panthers are used to the stifling heat of western Sydney, the humidity of Darwin has them cautious.
“We’re probably lucky in the fact that it’s quite hot out here in Penrith so we should be used to that but I’m not sure about that humidity!”
Kenny laughed.
“I think that’s the sort of great unknown for all the teams that go up to Darwin, but you just can’t be a victim to it.
“You know it’s going to be slick and the ball is probably going to spill out a little bit more than usual so you can’t let that be an excuse and we’ve just got to concentrate a little bit harder.”
Recent headlines have declared Kenny has his eyes set on a stint at the PNG Chiefs when they enter the competition, but Kenny reminded everyone that he is happy at the Panthers and his focus is on the next game.
“It certainly feels like my home,” Kenny reflected.
“I’ve played in the Penrith Juniors comp since I was six-years-old and I haven’t known any other NRL club other than Penrith.
“I think we all sort of love those fairy tales of being one club players and a lot of guys would want to do that with their career, but I’ve also seen the salary cap at work and see a lot of guys who have said the same things end up at other clubs.
“I don’t want to go putting anything out there that I could never stand behind and back up. I certainly love the club, and I think that’s obvious to anyone who knows me and it’ll certainly take a lot for me to leave.”
Kenny said talk of his future will likely ramp up after the season.
“Thankfully I don’t have to think about that too much at the moment and come November, I’m sure conversations will start. At the moment, I get to be blissfully ignorant and just focus on playing footy,” he said.
Mitch Kenny with journalist Emily Chate. Photo: Melinda Jane.
EMILY CHATE
Jenkins’ value keeps rising
The Jenkins dilemma: Try-scoring machine Thomas Jenkins is off-contract at the end of the season and there seems to be a general acceptance that he wants to stay at the club, and the club wants to keep him. But his incredible try-scoring run is only increasing his value in the market and the Panthers won’t be caught paying overs for a winger – no matter how many four-pointers he runs in. The problem is that Jenkins is on such a small deal at the moment that we’re not talking about a tiny upgrade here. There’s some talk that Jenkins could command $350,000 on the open market – I’m not confident Penrith will get that high. An interesting few months ahead, especially if he ends up being a surprise NSW call-up.
Kenny’s Fowler call: As all the speculation about Nathan Cleary’s future ramps up, his Penrith teammate Mitch Kenny dropped an interesting prediction, or theory, at a corporate gig last weekend. Attending an event at The Star Sports Bar last Saturday alongside Bryan Fletcher and Jack Cogger, Kenny revealed he does not expect his co-captain to head overseas until the twilight of his career – if at all. And he hinted that his girlfriend, Matildas star Mary Fowler, could even move to Australia once her current contract expires. Who knows whether Kenny has any inside knowledge, but it can’t be any worse than the uneducated speculation being tossed about by some mainstream journos at the moment.
Numbers man: You’ve to give credit to local Penrith accountant David Thomas. Despite breaking his leg and being confined to crutches or a wheelchair, the Panthers fanatic has managed to get himself to both the Storm and Bulldogs games. He found the lounge in a corporate box at Accor Stadium last Thursday night quite comfortable.
Keeping things low key: The Panthers opted for a quiet approach to Nathan Cleary’s 200th game last Thursday night. He wasn’t put up for media opportunities throughout the week despite the milestone, aside from some content with Nine. While Cleary handles himself well in front of the cameras, there’s no question he’d be frustrated at the ongoing speculation about his future. It will only ramp up once he is in Origin camp.
Phillips locks in: The Panthers have upgraded and extended the contract of rising star Billy Phillips. The impressive 21-year-old was already signed through until the end of next
year, but will now at Penrith until at least the end of 2029. Panthers General Manager of Football Shane Elford said the extension reflects the Club’s belief in Phillips’ continued development. “Billy is a quality young player who represents the Club strongly on and off the field,” Elford said. “He’s extremely hardworking and has taken his opportunity in first grade with two hands this season.”
Win or lose: Despite the disappointing loss to Canterbury last Thursday night, Nathan Cleary still spent plenty of time signing autographs and taking photos with fans. He is such a brilliant ambassador for the game.
Airport stayover: The Panthers fly out to Darwin this morning (Thursday) ahead of their clash with the Dolphins tomorrow. Rather than an early alarm, the club opted to put the players up in a hotel near the airport on Wednesday night.
Securing next generation: Penrith have locked in one of their most promising forwards, with 21-year-old Zakauri Clarke penning an extension. The fresh two-year deal will keep him at the club until at least the end of the 2028 NRL season. The young forward has been a consistent performer in the NSW Cup this season, featuring in all six matches, scoring two tries and kicking 12 goals. Earlier this year, he played in the Club’s NRL Pre-Season Challenge. Clarke is the brother of Melbourne Storm player Cooper Clarke. Panthers General Manager of Football Shane Elford said the Club is pleased to retain Clarke as part of its longterm plans. “Zakauri is a hardworking forward who has continued to develop his game and perform consistently this season,” Elford said. “We’re pleased to see his progress and look forward to his continued development over the coming years.” Clarke is widely tipped to make his NRL debut this year.
Spotted: Former Panther and current Wests Tigers captain Jarome Luai grabbing a bite to eat from Red Spoon Thai at Southlands in South Penrith.
Spotted: Panthers winger Brian To’o doing a bit of shopping at Rita’s Fashion in Liverpool.
Thomas Jenkins. Photo: NRL Photos.
PANTHERS POSTER
Belated celebration as Tago hits 100
206 days.
That’s how long it’s been since Izack Tago has played an NRL first grade premiership game.
His last match was during the Prelim Final loss to the Brisbane Broncos on Sunday, September 28 2025.
Technically speaking, Tago did play in a firstgrade trial match in February, but he probably shouldn’t have. Dealing with some pretty heavy personal issues he seemed a shadow of his former self.
There are things in this world far more important that football and family is definitely one of them.
Coach Ivan Cleary knew Tago had plenty of things to deal with so left him out of the round one team and the Panthers went on a five-game winning streak.
And you’re not going to change a winning team.
Tago has had to wait patiently until Round 7 before being given an opportunity to get back into the first grade side and in a sliding doors moment, only because of a suspension to 19-year-old Casey McLean.
At 24 years of age Tago is far from being washed up, he is a bona fide first grade player who has not been playing first grade.
I had to laugh when all sorts of options were thrown up during his first few weeks out of the top grade.
Some had him going to the Eels to play with his brother in a direct swap with Zac Lomax. No chance, that was never on the cards.
Then he was being offered to the Bulldogs in a
swap deal with Bronson Xerri. It was never going to happen.
You see Ivan Cleary loves Izack Tago. He knows what he’s been through these last six months, and he knows that a fully fit and focused Tago is a dangerous weapon. He believes in him and so do his teammates.
It’s been a long wait for Tago and what will make his return even more special and significant is that he will finally get to play his 100th
game for the Panthers. Yes, he’s been stuck on 99 games for 206 days.
This Friday, that long wait finally ends. Personally, I can’t wait to see him play. I think he’s going to have an absolute beauty!
Not sure about latest gambling ban
Well, the Federal Government is set to make it even harder for at least seven rugby league clubs, yes one of them is Penrith, to raise sponsorship funds for their teams with a ban on gambling ads in sports venues and on players’ and officials’ uniforms from January 1, 2027.
Now I have to declare I don’t gamble, never have, never will. I don’t even bet on Melbourne Cup Day.
However, I’ve got nothing against people that do and I think the educational campaigns and warnings introduced over the last few years surrounding gambling sponsorship in sport seemed like the perfect balance between advertising a legal vice while at the same time educating people about the dangers of gambling irresponsibly.
I don’t have an issue with the majority of restrictions being put in place about promoting gambling agencies however banning their business names appearing on rugby league jerseys seems unnecessary, especially at an NRL level. I feel like this is taking things one step too far?
I’ll always advocate that people should gamble responsibly but the last time I looked it was still legal to place a bet in Australia.
I know it’s not as simple as that, but it also makes me wonder what sporting sponsorship does the government plan to ban next?
Izack Tago. Photo: NRL Photos.
with Peter Lang Lang on League
When footy is the family business
Coming from a footy family, there is little surprise about the career Freddy Lussick has carved out for himself. And the hooker credits that family with helping him make it big.
Lussick, a dad of two kids, has his hands full but gives a lot of thanks to his partner and dad for the support they’ve shown him throughout his career.
“Growing up my dad had a big influence and is now on the NRL rollercoaster week in and week out,” Lussick told Behind the Game
“My missus has to ride the rollercoaster with me! But those two have been massive for me.”
Having two young children is no easy feat but Lussick said they help him forget about the high calibre pressure that comes with his job.
“It’s a good in a way because once I’m away from footy, I’m busy with them so I’m not really thinking about footy. I’m just dad at home,” he said.
Another way he relaxes – much like
the rest of us – is chucking on the footy, conceding he is a bit of a footy nerd.
“I try to switch off but I don’t unfortunately!” he said.
“I kind of just get caught watching every game, I’m a bit of a footy nerd.”
His older brothers, Darcy and Joey, both played in the NRL and Lussick has followed in their footsteps with a professional footy career.
“I didn’t really have a choice growing up, I was just thrown into footy!” he laughed.
“Dad played as well as my two older brothers so we’re a big footy family.
“I just grew up loving rugby league and I’m still playing it now.”
His brothers make sure to provide plenty of constructive criticism to their little brother.
“They give me plenty of stick,” Lussick said with a smile.
“Usually everyone at home is telling me what I’ve done wrong and what I’m not doing right, they are harsh critics!’
This writer is sure they do it with a lot of love.
with Emily Chate
Quick Questions
Coffee order: Latte one sugar
Cheat meal: Macca’s Favourite movie: ’American Sniper’ Favourite musician: Olivia Dean
Who did you support growing up: Whoever my brothers were playing for at the time
Pet peeve: People next to you playing something on their phone really loud
Go to streaming service: Netflix
Freddy Lussick. Photo: Melinda Jane.
THEY SAID IT...
“Penrith’s
“The forwards for the Dogs were outstanding. From the kick-off they went harder and faster, they looked like they had more energy than the Panthers. It was a very good win. Across the board the Dogs were impressive.”
“They had to win. There is so much going on in the club. Sometimes wins aren’t about the two points.”
“We’re excited to see his continued growth over the coming years.”
“We have got plenty of second-rowers ready to step into Marto’s role.”
“Maybe they’re getting ready for Origin camp”
“Rugby league is the ultimate leveler so it might be the best thing for us to maybe stop a little bit of that noise of people talking about being unbeaten through the season.”
biggest potential downfall is if they’re too successful, they (the NRL) might look at ways to stop their success for the greater good of the game, through something like an expansion draft.”
Nathan Hindmarsh on Canterbury’s win over Penrith
James Graham
Matthew Johns on the Bulldogs
Shane Elford on Billy Phillips
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary after the loss to the Bulldogs
Panthers captain Isaah Yeo
Isaiah Papali’i on Liam Martin’s injury
Tries: V Kikau, J Kiraz, S Hughes, J Preston, S Tupouniua Goals: M Burton 6/7
Moimoi 3, J Edgar 2, J Cogger 2, J McLean Z Clarke 5/8
Tries: P Young, A
Tries: T Jenkins 2, D Edwards
N Cleary 2/3
Tries:
NRL LADDER & FIXTURES
LAST
POINTS: PANTHERS VS BULLDOGS
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