Extra Time April 2 2026

Extra Time

1991

2022

2003

2023

2021

2024

Photo: NRL Photos.

GOOD GREAT FRIDAY EASTER BLOCKBUSTER Panthers v Storm preview: See Pages 34-35

LIAM MARTIN POSTER INSIDE

Available after 10:30am at participating restaurants.

58344

ADVERTISEMENT

TE AM LIS T S

Panthers

Storm

1

DYLAN EDWARDS

1

SUA FA’ALOGO

2

TOM JENKINS

2

WILL WARBRICK

3

PAUL ALAMOTI

3

JACK HOWARTH

4

CASEY McLEAN

4

NICK MEANEY

5

BRIAN TO’O

5

SIULAGI TUIMALATU-BROWN

6

BLAIZE TALAGI

6

CAMERON MUNSTER

7

NATHAN CLEARY (c)

7

JAHROME HUGHES

8

MOSES LEOTA

8

STEFANO UTOIKAMANU

9

FREDDY LUSSICK

9

HARRY GRANT (c)

10

LINDSAY SMITH

10

JOSH KING

11

ISAIAH PAPALI’I

11

JOE CHAN

12

LIAM MARTIN

12

ALEC MACDONALD

13

ISAAH YEO (c)

13

TRENT LOIERO

14

JACK COGGER

14

TYRAN WISHART

15

BILLY PHILLIPS

15

DAVVY MOALE

16

SCOTT SORENSEN

16

JACK HETHERINGTON

17

LUKE GARNER

17

COOPER CLARKE

18

IZACK TAGO

18

LAZARUS VAALEPU

19

KALANI LEULUAI-GOING

19

MANAIA WAITERE

footy club

Bennett Property is a fourth-generation fatherand-son run agency, located in the heart of the Hawkesbury region.

Our award winning team is focused and eager to deliver the best possible service to you!

Family Photoshoots • Modelling portfolios Cars & Car Clubs • Location Shoots • Portraits

WW58361

Call Richard on 0419 972 399

02 4578 1234

34

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, April 2, 2026

239 Windsor St, Richmond

MATCH PRE VIE W BROUGHT TO YOU BY

THE FINAL WORD FRIDAY, APRIL 3 | 8.00PM | COMMBANK STADIUM | REFEREE: ASHLEY KLEIN | BUNKER: CHRIS BUTLER

TROY DODDS

“

Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.”

The words of NBA legend Michael Jordan ring true when it comes to the Penrith Panthers.

Sure, the Panthers are fronted by a once-in-a-generation halfback but it is so much more than skillset when it comes to Nathan Cleary.

There are still league fans who dismiss Cleary.

As he built a collection of Premiership rings one by one, they had to keep coming up with fresh excuses.

It’s not that they were wrong about their arguments. Yes, Cleary has been behind strong forward packs that have dominated oppositions. Yes, he has kept it simple – not fixing what isn’t broken. No, the attacking flair isn’t the greatest we’ve seen

Broadcast

What all of them doubted was Cleary’s football smarts.

You see where Cleary excels is knowing and understanding the game better than any number seven of the modern era. He is constantly two steps ahead, forever reading what the opposition is doing almost like they were showing their cards at every move.

Nathan Cleary may not have reinvented the wheel, but boy did he figure out how to use its potential better than anyone else.

Even when Penrith were losing games last year, you never doubted they were a smart football team. There is an intelligence about them that has taken them to a level above most of the competition.

Watch the Panthers play and then watch all the other teams over the weekend. Penrith may make mistakes, but you will rarely find yourself shaking your head at a particular play or doubting the game plan.

There was another team like that not so long

NINE | FOX LEAGUE

ago – namely the Melbourne Storm. And while Craig Bellamy made footy intelligence part of his side’s DNA, there is no question Melbourne have lost some of that over the last few years.

That’s not to say the smarts don’t rise to the fore every now and again – Harry Grant showed that in this corresponding match at CommBank Stadium last year.

This Friday night’s battle between the Panthers and Storm is an intriguing one.

Penrith are deserved favourites and the way they’ve played over the past four weeks, it’s hard to imagine anyone toppling them in the near future.

But even the best sides usually drop a game around this stage of the season – so this one has danger game written all over it. Especially given the Storm have dropped two straight games.

However, one thing you have been able to say about Melbourne for so long is that they always appear to be a ‘settled’ football side – something that hasn’t been the case in 2026.

ABC 702 | 2GB 873

Already disrupted by the shock retirement of Ryan Papenhuyzen and Eli Katoa’s medical issues while on international duties, they were hit for six this week when Tui Kamikamica suffered a medical episode at training.

Everyone’s first thoughts are rightly with the Fijian’s health both in the short and long term, but there is no doubt this would have disrupted Melbourne’s preparation for this game.

Penrith have also been forced into a change with Mitch Kenny suspended for this one, and any disruption to the spine is obviously going to be a factor in your performance.

This is a Good Friday blockbuster to savour. It has all the makings of a tight encounter, which wouldn’t be such a bad thing for the Panthers at the moment given how easily they’ve been putting teams away.

But in the end, who’s smarter? The Storm may well ace plenty of tests, but the Panthers are the school Dux. Tip: Panthers by 4.

UPDATES ON NRL.COM

Thursday, April 2, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

35

Lower Mountains

AIR CONDITIONING

4735 6411 DIAMOND DEALER

SPLIT SYSTEMS

SPLIT SYSTEMS

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY

SPLIT SYSTEMS

SPLIT SYSTEMS

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY

Reverse Cycle Inverters Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED FULLY INSTALLED 2.5kW $1970 ENERGY 2.5kW $1855 REBATE 3.5kW $2020 INCLUDES INCLUDES 3.5kW $2180 5kW $2680 AVAILABLE 5kW $2450 WIFI WIFI CONTROL 7kW $3120 7kW $2850 CONTROL 8kW $3640 8.5kW $3240 Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

Reverse Cycle Inverters Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED FULLY INSTALLED INCLUDES 2.5kW $1950 2.5kW $1920 WIFI ENERGY CONTROL 3.5kW $2170 3.5kW $2160 REBATE 5kW $2660 5kW $2660 AVAILABLE 7kW $3120 7kW $3120 8kW $3770 8.5kW $4080 Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

Showroom: 2/129 Russell St, Emu Plains • www.Lmac.com.au 36

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, April 2, 2026

WW57970

HEATING & COOLING SPECIALISTS CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE or info@Lmac.com.au

FE ATURE

Sorensen: Pick Kenny for the Blues NATHAN TAYLOR

P

remiership-winning Panthers forward Scott Sorensen is demanding Laurie Daley select unsung teammate and dummy half Mitch Kenny in the NSW Blues team this year.

The extraordinary call comes just days after 28-year-old Kenny was suspended for this Friday’s blockbuster against Melbourne following a hip-drop tackle on Eels fullback Isaiah Iongi last weekend.

Speaking with Extra Time prior to the Good Friday clash at CommBank Stadium, the experienced backrower said the Panthers are going to miss Kenny dearly against the Storm.

“To be honest, I’m actually really glad you asked about him,” Sorensen began.

“I feel like Mitch doesn’t get the praise that he deserves” “I feel like Mitch doesn’t get the praise that he deserves. He has been an absolute warrior for our side for so long. The way he is leading our team at training, the way he is leading our team on the park – he’s taken his game to the next level.”

Sorensen then doubled down on Kenny’s impact for Penrith as well as his maturity and leadership by calling for the hooker’s selection in this year’s State of Origin series.

“It might come across biased because I’m one of his teammates and I love him, but he is honestly kicking the door down for State of Origin… he’s kicking the door down for international football. I say that with absolute honesty, like he’s screaming out to get a Blues jersey and he deserves it,” Sorensen declared.

“Everyone that plays with Mitch here knows that when he is playing it fills you with absolute confidence and I love playing with him.

“That should explain how much we’re going to miss him on Friday; you know what I mean?”

Kenny’s absence tomorrow night will see new Panthers recruit Freddy Lussick in the starting hooker role against the Storm. On Monday, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary praised Lussick’s work ethic at training and Sorensen said he couldn’t agree more.

Scott Sorensen and Mitch Kenny in 2022. Photo: NRL Images.

“When he came in the pre-season Freddy just grabbed the opportunity with both hands – he was very impressive,” Sorensen said.

“Obviously Ivan has built an incredible culture here and he’s just bought straight into that and is doing an incredible job.

“He is putting his hand up and more to push for a position in this team and he’s been very impressive. For him to get a crack on Friday night is very exciting for him and for the team.”

After six amazing seasons with the Panthers, Sorensen will depart the club at season’s end.

He’ll join new NRL franchise the Perth Bears from 2027 on two-year deal.

Sorensen, whose wife is from Western Australia, said he’s looking forward to his latest chapter next year.

“I’m very fortunate and very grateful to the Bears for this incredible opportunity, it’s very exciting,” he said.

“But it’s going to be hard to say goodbye to this organisation. It’s going to be bittersweet, but I can’t say thank you enough to the Bears.

But that opportunity doesn’t come without the Panthers obviously.”

Prop Liam Henry and former Panther Mav Geyer will join Sorensen in Perth.

Scott Sorensen on Wednesday afternoon. Photo: Melinda Jane.

0ɴȵƺȸǣƺȇƬƺ Ɏǝƺ ɖǼɎǣȅƏɎƺ ƬȒȅƫǣȇƏɎǣȒȇ Ȓǔ ƬȸƏǔɎ ƫƺƺȸ ƏȇƳ ȅȒɖɎǝɯƏɎƺȸǣȇǕ ª ƏɎ «ɖɀɎɵ ¨ƺȇȇɵ ȸƺɯƺȸɵ ۭ ³ȅȒǸƺǝȒɖɀƺِ áǝƺɎǝƺȸ ɵȒɖٔȸƺ ƬȸƏɮǣȇǕ Ə ȵƺȸǔƺƬɎǼɵ ƫƏȸƫƺƬɖƺƳ áǝƺɎǝƺȸ ɵȒɖٔȸƺ ƬȸƏɮǣȇǕ Ə ȵƺȸǔƺƬɎǼɵ ƫƏȸƫƺƬɖƺƳ ƬɖɎ Ȓǔ ƫȸǣɀǸƺɎ Ȓȸ Ə ǼȒƬƏǼǼɵ ƫȸƺɯƺƳ ƬȒǼƳ Ȓȇƺً ɯƺٔɮƺ ǕȒɎ ɵȒɖ ƬȒɮƺȸƺƳِ

IȒǼǼȒɯ ɖɀ Ȓȇ ɀȒƬǣƏǼɀ ۬ȸɖɀɎɵȵƺȇȇɵƫȸƺɯǣȇǕ ɯɯɯِȸɖɀɎɵȵƺȇȇɵƫȸƺɯǣȇǕِƬȒȅِƏɖ 56538

WW57293

‫« ! וב׏ٖג‬00z à0ً ¨0z«XÁR z³á ‫׎דוא‬

Thursday, April 2, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

37

FE ATURE

You can’t sign ‘em all NATHAN TAYLOR

P

enrith fullback Dylan Edwards would love all his teammates to re-sign and be Panthers for life, but he knows better than most that’s not how the sporting business works.

The Panthers have more than a dozen first graders off-contract next season including co-captains Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin, Moses Leota, Blaize Talagi, Brian To’o, Mitch Kenny, Paul Alamoti and Isaiah Papali’i.

While Penrith would love to re-sign everyone to new deals, the reality is that some of our favourite players are going to be at new clubs come 2028.

Speaking with Extra Time on Wednesday, Edwards said Panthers bosses would already have somewhat of a plan as to which players they’ll want to keep past next year.

“I’m sure management’s got a plan, but hopefully all those guys stay, but you just never know in this game do you?” Edwards pondered.

“There’s so many opportunities coming up for people to potentially leave, to potentially cash in and get really big contracts for themselves and their family.

“It’s the game we play. It’s the

world we live in, but fingers crossed they all get sorted.”

Unlike many of his teammates around the Panthers Academy, Edwards won’t have to stress about a new contract as the Australian and NSW Blues representative is currently locked away until the end of 2028.

Edwards said contract negotiations between a player and a club often stay private, except under special circumstances.

“As a player, you might have a conversation with a couple of people at the club that you’re really close to but it’s never going to be about the amount of dollars really… you’re not going to discuss that in here,” Edwards said.

“Ultimately, the final decision is up to you and your loved ones.”

Making some of Penrith’s players worth even more money on the open market is the fact that the Panthers are flying at the moment and currently sit on top of the NRL ladder after four rounds.

Edwards said his hot start to the season, which sees him in equal third spot on the Dally M ladder, can be put down to a huge team effort.

“It’s a team sport really isn’t it? So I think my form is a by-product of a team that’s playing well and there-

fore individuals are playing well, so what Freddy brings.

I sort of can feed off that,” he said.

Watching him go “But we’re still really aware that about his business is there’s plenty of work to do and super impressive. He’s plenty of work to still be done. So worked his backside we’re not getting too far ahead of off and he’s earned ourselves but we’re happy with the his opportustart.” nity.”

The Panthers will be aiming to keep their winning streak alive when they face-off with old foes the Melbourne Storm on Good Friday at CommBank Stadium.

Edwards said the club will miss hooker Mitch Kenny tomorrow night after he was suspended for one match due to a dangerous contact charge, with Freddy Lussick taking his spot.

“Mitch definitely doesn’t get the raps he deserves externally. Internally, we absolutely love him!” he said.

“He doesn’t miss many games, and he provides that consistency out of mind. It’s his aggression defensively as well. He’s someone that locks up that middle third of the field.

“I’m spewing that Mitch is going to miss this game but I’m excited to see Dylan Edwards is having a huge start to the 2026 season. Photo: Melinda Jane.

BROADCASTINGLIVETHISSATURDAY INTHEWESTHQFOYERFORTHE COLISEUMTHEATRE’SEASTERWEEKEND EGG-TRAVAGANZA WINES PRIZ

MY88.COM.AU MY88.COM.AU 38

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, April 2, 2026

57677

WW57911

EASTERSATURDAY 10AM-12PM

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with The Masked Panther

Leadership locked in Graham remains Chairman: Peter Graham will remain as Chairman of Panthers Group, with his tenure extended following the club’s Annual General Meeting last week. Graham along with the rest of the club’s Directors were returned at the Board Election in February, with the Annual General Meeting the final signoff required. Mark Mulock and Greg Alexander will continue to serve in their roles as Deputy Chairmen. It means the club has firmed up its leadership with Graham as Chairman and Andrew Hill as CEO. High on the Board’s agenda is the appointment of a new Independent Director.

Here’s cheers: The new-look Pantherettes danced up a storm at the Panthers v Eels game at CommBank Stadium last Saturday. The new group shrugged off recent media attention to continue the Pantherette tradition at Panthers home games. One thing I’d like to note – while the performance has generally always faced the west, given the western side at CommBank Stadium is completely corporate and so many people are inside suites and function rooms when the cheerleaders are on, perhaps switching it up and having them face paying members and fans would be a better option?

Peter Graham and Andrew Hill.

to social media to clarify Royce was still alive and kicking. Truth is it’s just one of dozens of fake posts that do the rounds on Facebook, which seems to have little control of spam and fake news on its platform. The latest involved winger Brian To’o – apparently he was arrested and at risk of missing last week’s game against the Eels. It’s all just farcical.

Schmick look: Penrith’s 2004 retro jersey certainly looked the goods against the Eels last weekend. But some fans were frustrated that the jerseys they pre-ordered from the club arrived after they were readily available in stores like Rebel Sport.

the Allam Homes brand continue to feature on Panthers jerseys, corner posts and at Panthers home games. “We are incredibly proud to extend our partnership with the Penrith Panthers and continue supporting such a successful and community-focused club,” Allam Homes Director Ben Allam (pictured with Panthers CEO Matt Cameron) said.

judiciary earlier this year, the club has opted not to fight Mitch Kenny’s Dangerous Contact charge following an incident with Eels fullback Isaiah Iongi last weekend. Many within the club were seething at the charge, but there’s a realisation it’s difficult to successfully defend such interpretations. Kenny will sit out this Friday’s game against Melbourne.

Spotted: Panthers hooker Mitch Kenny and forward Scott Sorensen grabbing a take-away coffee from Percy Plunkett on Monday.

Edwards shares tips: Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards visited Glenmore Park High School recently for a Student Leadership Day. Luddenham Public School students (pictured) were among the students taking part in the event, where students heard from inspiring people about leadership across a variety of sectors.

Spotted: Dumped veteran Pantherettes Chloe Carter and Abby Leah cheering on the Panthers from the stands at CommBank Stadium.

Kenny cops ban: Despite Penrith’s success with little-known lawyer Ivan Cleary at the

Spotted: Premiership-winning Panthers forward Moses Leota at Daniel’s Auto Group, helping promote their RAM range.

Allam extends: Long-time Panthers corporate partner Allam Homes has extended its sponsorship of the club until the end of the 2028 season. The renewed agreement will see

Socials spam: I told you last week about the nasty fake post doing the rounds about Royce Simmons passing away. His wife had to take

NORMAN’S

SCRAP

Spill the tea: Got some news to share? Spotted a Panther out and about? Email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au. I don’t keep secrets but I do protect my sources.

METALS

Free Call 1800 225 235

NEW & USED STEEL BOUGHT & SOLD

OPEN 7 DAYS MOST PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Thursday, April 2, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

WW57840

$$$$ buyers of all Ferrous SYDNEY - 9748 0611 PENRITH - 4732 1683 34 PEACHTREE ROAD, PENRITH FAX - 4721 7658 and Non-Ferrous Metals (Off Castlereagh Road) 6 BLIGH STREET, AUBURN PICK-UP SERVICE AVAILABLE 39

#584 PANTHER S POS TER 40

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, April 2, 2026

Thursday, April 2, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

41

SEARCH WESTERN WEEKENDER WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO PODCASTS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

WWW.WEST ERN WEEKEN DER .COM.AU/PO DC AST BROUGHT TO YOU BY Y

OUT EVERY WEDNESDAY

HOSTED BY TROY DODDS AND NATHAN TAYLOR

A P E N R I T H PA N T H E R S P O D C A S T

TENSION’S RUNNING HIGH

PENRITH PANTHERS PODCAST!

LISTEN TO OUR

ANALYS IS

Patience is the name of the game P Lang on

League with Peter Lang

enrith supporters and the rugby league world all want to know whether Nathan Cleary will re-sign with the Panthers beyond this current contract, which expires at the end of 2027.

If Cleary doesn’t re-sign before November 1, he will hit the open market which means any of the other 17 clubs can sign him.

You could almost hear the excitement in Nine league journo Danny Weildler’s voice when he asked Nathan Cleary last week; “The other talking point around you has been your decision to test the market. Why do you want to do that?”

Cleary smiled, he knew Weildler was trying to get him to confirm something he knew he’d never actually said.

“I don’t think I’ve ever announced that,” Cleary smiled.

He was right, he’s never actually said those words.

What Cleary has said is that he’s in no hurry to make a decision on his future. That he still has nearly two years left on his current contract and that to leave Penrith is something that would be very hard to do.

I’m one of those ‘nut jobs’ that has heard or read everything Cleary has said on the subject. I’m always

At Harkai & Co, we specialise in residential, commercial and maintenance plumbing and excavations. From fixing blocked drains and burst pipes to handling large-scale excavation projects, we’re here to deliver reliable, high-quality services across Western Sydney.

Call us for a free, no obligation quote today; Jack - 0481 705 221 James - 0412 407 243 harkai_plumbing

42

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, April 2, 2026

Nathan Cleary is always a hit with the fans. Photo: NRL Photos.

trying to find a key word or phrase he might’ve let slip which would give an indication of what his final decision will be.

A lot of Panthers supporters believe he will not re-sign after his current contract with Penrith expires.

And what do they base this on?

Well largely his relationship with girlfriend Mary Fowler.

One theory is that he will leave the Panthers and go play in the English Super League to be closer to Mary.

People forget that Mary herself is off-contract with Manchester City during the summer of 2027. Who knows what she will do as well.

As for Cleary, who would be on well over a million dollars a season if he re-signs with Penrith, he’d be facing a pay cut to head overseas.

In the Super League the current highest paid players are on a maximum of about $385,000 Australian.

Quite an income drop and don’t kid yourself thinking ‘Clez’ could pick up sponsorship deals to boost his salary. In the UK, the Super League currently ranks as the country’s fourth most popular sport sitting well behind football, cricket and rugby union.

Hell, even the sport of darts regularly outrates Super League matches on television.

The other popular belief is that he’ll go to the Papua New Guinea Chiefs and earn a couple of million dollars a year tax free.

This option is particularly popular because Mary has mixed Irish/ Papua New Guinean heritage.

Problem with that option is that it doesn’t bring the couple any closer together unless Mary wants to quit her sport and move to PNG with him.

Highly doubtful.

So where does all this analysis leave us?

The answer is nowhere. I’m still none the wiser and you want to know why? Because I don’t even think Nathan knows what he will do yet.

Whenever he says that to a journo I actually believe that he’s telling the truth.

Now there will come a time when Cleary will have to make a decision whether he wants to stay at Penrith or not.

If he decides not to, then he needs to give Penrith enough time so they can plan a future without him.

But that time is not today… it’s not even tomorrow.

Sit tight folks, he’ll let us know when he knows.

Until then, let’s just leave the kid alone to think.

BEHIND THE GAME

How footy has taught Smith lessons in life L

indsay Smith has loved footy his whole life, now he is living his dream and saying it taught him to be accountable for his actions.

Smith played his junior footy for the St Marys Saints and has played at Penrith for the last five years. Last month he announced he would remain at the club until the end of 2029.

Footy has given Smith so much more than a job with the prop saying the lessons he has learnt as a player translate into his everyday life.

“It has taught me to be accountable for your actions,” he explained to Behind the Game this week.

“One thing I’ve learned the most is even if something is not completely your fault, you probably had something to do with it along the way and trying to understand and take that as a way to get better and not kick stones.

“Just trying to look for ways to

Lindsay Smith. Photo: Melinda Jane.

SCOREBOARD

get better, understand, and be accountable for your actions and what you might have contributed.”

Like many of us, Smith remains a fan of the game, saying when he has the chance he flicks on the TV. “As a kid, I’d watch every game every weekend,” Smith said.

“I try, especially at the start of the season, to watch as much footy as I can but it’s becoming a little bit more difficult with my family and little one at home.

“I try to watch as much as I can but also find times to get away at the same time.”

Smith’s young son may be lacing up his own pair of boots in the future but for now he’s happy to watch his dad.

“He’s loving it at the moment!” Smith laughed.

“He loves coming to the game and seeing it on TV, but I think he is more excited about watching cars go around on a track.”

with

Emily Chate Quick Questions Coffee order: Small flat white with an extra shot Cheat meal: Frangos Favourite tv show: ’How I Met Your Mother’

Favourite musician: Jordan Davis

Pet peeve: People who don’t take accountability Who did you support growing up: Sydney Roosters Go to streaming service: Disney+

footy club

Missed last week’s results?

Here’s a rundown of what happened in key Penrith Panthers games...

NRL

48

Tries: T Jenkins 2, I Papali’i, I Yeo, B Talagi, L Smith, C McLean, P Alamoti Goals: N Cleary 8/8

20

Eels

Tries: J Addo-Carr, D Walker, B Simonsson, S Russell Goals: M Moses 2/4

Check out our website

26

Tries: P Moimoi, K Falls, J Cole, J McLean Goals: Z Clarke 5/5

26

Eels

Tries: A Twidle 4, L Talataina Goals: A Twidle 3/6

Jersey Flegg Panthers

28

Tries: H Bell 2, H Armstrong, C Kanaan, T Sangalang Goals: K Raven 4/5

26

Book p a service callg

When: 29th of Apri Time: 12: RSVP: 22nd of Apri

Contact us on 0491 377 539

NSW Cup Panthers

Your local Plumbing experts - 24/7 *Hot water repairs *General plumbing maintenance *Blocked Drains *Routine and scheduled maintenance *RPZ valve testing ooo*Leaking taps ooo *TMV testing

WW57923

Panthers

footy club

“Nobody does it better” Take the risk and worry out of your real estate experience with L J Hooker Penrith!

Eels

Tries: D Taula 2, D Vaivela 2, I Lui Goals: K Moujalli 3/5

Even after 40 years, L J Hooker is setting the standard for Real Estate in the Penrith area.

We are not going to rest on our lorels but

2/314 High Street, Penrith |

rather continue to keep doing what we do best which is working with our valued customers in realising their real estate dream.

Contact the team today at 4732 2322 or penrith@ljhooker.com.au

penrith.ljhooker.com.au

Thursday, April 2, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

43

Artist’s impression

RESIDENCES REFINED. RETAIL REDEFINED. NOW SELLING @è¨ ă²® Åá ă² ² öă è¼ kÂèöáăèáƐ F ĥ¼ Åö Åú ă² ö²úÅ®²áăÅ Ú á® ö²ă ÅÚ óö²¨Åá¨ă ö²®²ĹáÅá½ à讲öá ÚÅēÅá½ Åá X²áöÅăÂƏ .ă èĴ²öú á ²Ú²ē ă²® Úż²úăĥÚ² è¼ ÂŽÂư²á® ĹáÅú²úƐ úó²¨ă ¨ĈÚ ö ēŲĕúƐ á® ăö áõĈÅÚ Â ē²á èá ĥèĈö öèè¼ăèóƏ Book your appointment to visit our display suite

XöèĈ®Úĥ ®²ē²Úèó²® ȑ §ĈÅÚă §ĥƑ

d Ú²ú §ĥƑ

Independently ö ă²® ¼èö õĈ ÚÅăĥ ĥèĈ ¨ á ăöĈúăƑ

1300 856 908 à ĥ¼ Åöó²áöÅăÂƏ¨èàƏ Ĉ

WW57973

.d @ .F \Ƒ kÂÅú ¨èààĈáŨ ăÅèá óöèēÅ®²ú ½²á²ö Ú Åá¼èöà ăÅèá ĕÂŨ Åú ¨Ĉöö²áă ă ă² ăÅà² è¼ óöè®Ĉ¨ăÅèáƏ k² Åá¼èöà ăÅèá ¨èáă Åá²® Åá ăÂÅú ¨èààĈáŨ ăÅèá ®è²ú áèă ¨èáúăÅăĈă² ®ēŨ² á® úÂèĈÚ® áèă §² ö²ÚŲ® èá ú úĈ¨ÂƏ Xöè¼²úúÅèá Ú ®ēŨ² úÂèĈÚ® §² úèĈ½Âă óöÅèö ăè áĥ ¨ăÅèá §²Åá½ ă Õ²á Åá ö²ÚŠᨲ èá áĥ è¼ ă² Åá¼èöà ăÅèáƏ

44

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, April 2, 2026

NRL L ADDER & FIX TURES CLUB

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

+/-

PTS

1

Panthers

4

4

0

0

0

140

30

+110

8

2

Warriors

4

3

0

1

0

134

68

+66

6

3

W. Tigers

3

2

0

1

1

92

50

+42

6

4

Knights

4

3

0

1

0

100

88

+12

6

5

Rabbitohs

3

2

0

1

1

78

72

+6

6

6

Bulldogs

3

2

0

1

1

45

48

-3

6

7

Storm

4

2

0

2

0

136

70

+66

4

8

Dolphins

4

2

0

2

0

98

90

+8

4

9

Sharks

4

2

0

2

0

100

96

+4

4

10

Broncos

4

2

0

2

0

76

92

-16

4

11

Cowboys

4

2

0

2

0

92

112

-20

4

12

Roosters

4

2

0

2

0

81

116

-35

4

13

Eels

4

2

0

2

0

94

152

-58

4

14

Sea Eagles

3

0

0

3

1

60

98

-38

2

15

Raiders

4

1

0

3

0

67

116

-49

2

16 17

Titans Dragons

4 4

1 0

0 0

3

0

4

0

62 68

112 113

-50 -45

V

Thursday, April 2 8.00pm Kayo Stadium

V

Friday, April 3 4.05pm Accor Stadium

V

Friday, April 3 8.00pm CommBank Stadium

V

Saturday, April 4 5.30pm Jubilee Stadium

V

Saturday, April 4 7.35pm Cbus Super Stadium

V

Sunday, April 5 2.00pm Ocean Protect Stadium

V

Sunday, April 5 4.05pm McDonald Jones Stadium

V

Monday, April 6 4.05pm CommBank Stadium

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

If it is, you’ve won a spectacular harbour cruise for two people thanks to Captain Cook Cruises.

To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 2026-005 PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender

2 0

Face in the C rowd

Round 5

BYE:

EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au WRITERS Nathan Taylor, Peter Lang, Emily Chate

Roosters

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES 4722 2998 / sales@westernweekender.com.au

PL AYER OF THE YE AR

footy club

The Western Weekender Penrith Panthers Player of the Year competition runs throughout the season, with our four experts delivering a 3, 2, 1 rating for the best Panthers players from each Penrith game. The player with the most votes at the end of the season is crowned our Player of the Year.

S TORM DAMAGE D AMAGE TO TTO O YOUR Y OUR STORM STORM DAMAGE YOUR STORM DAMAGE P ER GOLA OR O R SUNROOM S UNROTO OMYOUR R OOF? PERGOLA ROOF? PERGOLA OR SUNROOM ROOF? OR ROOF? We PERGOLA can help! With over 65 SUNROOM yrs experience, trust the experts!

ALFRESCOS ● ● CARPORTS CARPORTS ● ● DECKS DECKS ● ● PATIOS PATIOS ● ● PERGOLAS PERGOLAS ● ● SUNROOMS SUNROOMS ALFRESCOS

M arket leader lleader eader -- Fast FFast ast quotes qquotes uotes -- Quality Q uality work w ork Market Market Quality work Market leader - Fast quotes - Quality work Book in for your free in-home quote 236-238 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains

1300 659 276

LAST WEEK’S POINTS: PANTHERS VS EELS

4731 6311

TROY DODDS: 3 – NATHAN CLEARY | 2 – ISAIAH PAPALI’I | 1 – THOMAS JENKINS

7/33 York Rd Jamisontown

PETER LANG: 3 – NATHAN CLEARY | 2 – BILLY PHILLIPS | 1 – THOMAS JENKINS LUKE PRIDDIS: 3 – ISAIAH PAPALI’I | 2 – NATHAN CLEARY | 1 –DYLAN EDWARDS

At Penrith Muffler Mart & Tyre we specialise in:

Current Ladder Nathan Cleary

CONTACT US

footy club

NATHAN TAYLOR: 3 – NATHAN CLEARY | 2 – THOMAS JENKINS | 1 – CASEY MCLEAN

1st

hicraft.com.au

29 6th

Casey McLean

4

2nd Thomas Jenkins

24 7th

Brian To'o

3

3rd

Dylan Edwards

18

8th

Billy Phillips

3

4th

Isaiah Papali'i

8

9th

5th

Isaah Yeo

7

10th

• Budget Mufflers • Exhaust Systems • Car Servicing • Mechanical Repairs

• Towbars • Tyres and Wheels • Brake Repairs • Pink and Blue Slip insp.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE!

Thursday, April 2, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

45

CELEBRIT Y TIP S TER S TROY DODDS

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998

RABBITOHS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

EELS

ANDREW BERGER

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

KELLY PARTNERS | 4726 9666

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

EELS

DOUGLAS ELY

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

YORK JEWELLERS | 4721 0780

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

TIGERS

RYAN SCHEITHE

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

HERTZ | 4731 6344

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

EELS

LEIGH HARTOG

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

JK WILLIAMS | 4725 3400

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

JAI CARMODY

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

CARMODY ACCOUNTING | 4711 3386

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

NATHAN TAYLOR

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER | 4722 2998

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

EELS

DANIEL GALEA

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

INFINITE HOMES | 4703 4040

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

SCOTT SUTTON

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

LOWER MOUNTAINS AIR CONDITIONING | 4735 6411

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

EELS

MARK ELPHICK

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

MARKWATER GROUP | 0424 775 509

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

TIGERS

DEE BARLOW

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

COUNTRY BREWER | 4731 5444

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

JIM HILL

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

NEPEAN SOLAR SOLUTIONS | 4760 0809

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

JOSHUA VAN DEN BROEK

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

DROID MEDIA | 0415 844 247

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

TIGERS

AARON GAMPE

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

BETTER BUILT HOMES | 1300 100 922

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

ANTHEA STRATHDEE

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

LOWER MOUNTAINS AIR CONDITIONING | 4735 6411

BULLDOGS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

EELS

K ANE TOWNS

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

TOWNS CRANES | 0487 272 819

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

EELS

ANTHONY WALKER

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

WALKER FINANCE | 0427 998 120

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

EELS

LEE BANISTER

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

TRESAMI MANAGED IT SERVICES | 1300 318 444

BULLDOGS

DRAGONS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

JEFF LEMON

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

KHP CIVIL | 4773 9275

RABBITOHS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

EELS

GARTH BUTLER

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

PENRITH CITY AUTOMOTIVE | 8805 9500

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

COREY PHILLIPS

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

LEISURE POOLS | 0415 699 086

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

DANIEL MCKINNON

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

EELS

BATEMAN BATTERSBY COMPLETE LEGAL | 4731 5899

46

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, April 2, 2026

044 044 042 042 042 042 040 040 040 040 040 040 040 040 038 038 038 038 038 038 038 036

CELEBRIT Y TIP S TER S CHARBEL GEAGEA

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

KELLY PARTNERS | 4726 9666

BULLDOGS

DRAGONS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

ROSS FOWLER

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

ROSS FOWLER & CO | 0419 738 484

BULLDOGS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

TIGERS

SHANAK A DE SILVA

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

SYNERGY ACCOUNTING | 4732 6555

RABBITOHS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

TIGERS

VINCE MUSICO

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

BRILLIANT HOMES | 0416 258 341

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

VINCE CAPOLUPO

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

LAKESIDE RESTAURANT | 0419 491 125

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

EELS

JACOB BENNETT

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

BENNETT PROPERTY | 0487 487 775

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

EELS

LIZ PRASAD

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL | 4722 8500

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

CAMERON FAICO

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

FAICO & CO REAL ESTATE | 0434 400 225

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

TIGERS

JAMIE GOLDFINCH

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

JAY JAY BUILDING SUPPLIES | 4731 1533

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

EELS

JULIET DESILVA

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

SYNERGY ACCOUNTING | 4732 6555

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

TIGERS

SHANIL LAL

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

RUNNYMEDE LAWYERS | 0432 043 112

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

TIGERS

JOHN VEITCH

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

PARRAMATTA MOTOR GROUP | 0447 517 711

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

EELS

CHRIS AYLING

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

ARUM ADVISORY | 8302 3677

BULLDOGS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

TIGERS

IAN GARTON

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

MCDONALD’S GARTON GROUP | 4721 2992

RABBITOHS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

TIGERS

BILL McDEED

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

GOURMET MEAT CO | 4735 1400

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

ERIN VICARY

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

DEFUSE PILATES & YOGA STUDIO | 4732 5226

RABBITOHS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

EELS

DARREN LATTY

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

PRD REAL ESTATE | 0414 620 532

RABBITOHS

DRAGONS

WARRIORS

EELS

ADAM TOBY

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

EARTHWORKS TRAINING | 0415 214 348

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

SHARKS

EELS

ALEX MCKENZIE

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES | 4727 6588

RABBITOHS

DRAGONS

SHARKS

TIGERS

BRENT JONES

SEA EAGLES

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

LAMROCKS SOLICITORS | 4731 5688

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

TIGERS

DONNA HILDON

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

KNIGHTS

SUPREMACY FUNERALS | 4721 2020

RABBITOHS

DRAGONS

WARRIORS

EELS

KEN HALE

DOLPHINS

PANTHERS

BRONCOS

RAIDERS

BULLDOGS

COWBOYS

WARRIORS

EELS

KEN HALE PLUMBING | 4773 9275

Thursday, April 2, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

036 036 036 036 036 036 034 034 034 034 034 034 032 032 032 032 032 030 030 030 030 028 47

48

the western weekender » Thursday, April 2, 2026