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A devastated Penrith fan. Photo: Melinda Jane.

SHATTERED DREAMS HEARTBREAKING END TO A MEMORABLE SEASON Full 2026 review inside, plus a Grand Final Day preview

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

NE W S

Cleary hurt in sour end to season NATHAN TAYLOR

ewcastle Knights hooker Phoenix Crossland has paid the price for his ugly hip-drop tackle on Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary, suspended from this Sunday’s NRL Grand Final. On Tuesday night, the NRL judiciary declared Crossland guilty of a dangerous contact charge on the Penrith champion, suspending him for four matches, including this weekend’s decider against the Roosters. “I want to thank everyone inside for a fair hearing, I apologise to Nathan and the Panthers and the game and fans,” Crossland said after the hearing. “It’s a terrible start to the most important week of the year due to myself and as soon as I walk out of this building my focus goes to the Newcastle Knights and winning this Grand Final and helping Harrison Graham prepare as best he can and get a win on Sunday.” Crossland’s fate was decided while Cleary was laying alone in a hospital bed at Royal North Shore Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery on a double leg fracture. The 28-year-old was under the knife within hours of being taken from Accor Stadium in the back of an ambulance. Cleary suffered the horrific injury late in the first half of Penrith’s devastating 22-14 loss to Newcastle. The compound fracture suffered due to

Penrith players gather around an injured Nathan Cleary. Photo: NRL Photos.

Crossland’s illegal tackle left Cleary in severe pain on the field as Penrith’s medical team rushed to his side. “It was a bit hard. I went and saw him at half-time and saw the whole crew were in there, my family, so that was a bit hard and I was a bit emotional,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said post-game. “When the boys were all around the medicab, I got a bit emotional there because I thought that was pretty cool. I didn’t know it was a compound [at that time]. “He watched the game in the ambulance apparently and made him feel worse.” Cleary faces a long recovery and also has issues with his other foot, which will also require surgery after a break was revealed last week. On Monday afternoon, Cleary took to Instagram to share a post-surgery image from his hospital bed. “I’ll be back,” Cleary declared in the post. “Thank you so much to everyone that has reached out, the support has been unbelievable. “Yesterday sucked but it’s all part of the journey and it’s made me even more grateful for the people I have around me.” Cleary’s post attracted high-profile support including opposing teammates and rival clubs as well as NSW Premier Chris Minns and his partner Mary Fowler. Attention now turns to Cleary’s recovery, which could see him sidelined for the start of the 2027 NRL season. Recovery times for compound fractures vary significantly.

CONGRATULATIONS

penrith.city

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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Penrith City Council and the whole community congratulate the Penrith Panthers on such an inspiring year. You’ve done our City proud!

PHOTO SPECIAL

A special Sunday ends in tears T

he result didn’t go Penrith’s way, but Sunday afternoon at Accor Stadium provided a terrific atmosphere, and a game of footy that had almost everything. The photographers from NRL Photos captured the big moments of a dramatic Sunday in Sydney...

Penrith supporters out in force.

Moses Leota arrives at Accor Stadium.

A happy Panthers fan braves the rain.

The pre-match coin toss.

Penrith and proud.

Nathan Cleary prepares to come on.

Isaah Yeo crashes through the Knights.

WELL DONE IF IT’S A PEST PROBLEM WE’LL FIX IT

PENRITH PANTHERS!

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You’ve made our city proud! Y

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Congratulationss to the Penrith Panthers on another great season. Keep up the effort next year boys!

Jack Cogger started the game at halfback.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

Sue Day South Ward Independent Councillor sue.day@penrith.city 0407 224 228

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Blaize Talagi celebrates a try.

PHOTO SPECIAL

for Penrith Reality hits as full-time arrives for Penrith.

A big crowd despite the wet weather. Brian To’o makes a break.

Liam Martin soaks it up.

You’re off!

Isaah Yeo fumbles, then re-gathers the ball.

Proud fans.

Devastation: Nathan Cleary is attended to by medical staff after suffering a horrific injury in a tackle.

Well done to the mighty Penrith Panthers! Another amazing season under the belt. You’ve done us proud!

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

SE A SON RE VIE W

A season of highs ends one game H

ow will season 2026 be remembered? It is a question Penrith will grapple with over the summer, balancing the enormous achievement of a Minor Premiership and a seventh straight Preliminary Final, with the reality of falling short of the ultimate prize. Penrith has achieved what every rugby league club strives to reach – consistency. They are now an almost permanent fixture in the Finals, and there is no indication that will change any time soon.

They are the new Melbourne Storm, if you like. The Storm achieved unparalleled consistency during a 15-year run of making the Finals, which only ended this year. They made seven straight Preliminary Finals from 2016 to 2022. But the Storm never won back-to-back Premierships during that remarkable run of consistent success, so Penrith’s four straight titles is something to behold. There is a deflation around Penrith following the premature end to the season – both the club and the city. When you are ‘up’ for so long, the disappointments can often cut deeper. The gap between average and success is often smaller than the gap between average and failure.

“The gap between average and success is often smaller than the gap between average and failure.”

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary.

But there is still much to celebrate in 2026. Winning the Minor Premiership is remarkable when you consider this was Penrith’s second year away from home, forced to play at CommBank Stadium. That hasn’t been given enough credit by the wider rugby league world and while it may only be a short trip down the M4, it changes everything about your match day routine and structure. Penrith’s start to the regular season was as good as anyone could have wanted. Ivan Cleary’s side thumped the Broncos, Sharks, Roosters and Eels in the first month, and even had some pundits suggesting they could go through the year undefeated. Those calls only intensified when Penrith stunned Melbourne 50-10 at CommBank Stadium on Good Friday, but a shock loss to the Bulldogs the following week brought things crashing down with a thud. Penrith would bounce back though, thanks to a Golden Point win over the Dolphins in Darwin that was overshadowed by a serious injury to hooker Mitch Kenny, who would miss the bulk of the remaining regular season.

Nathan Cleary. Photo: NRL Photos.

Penrith settled into the season well, with big wins over the likes of Newcastle and impressive performances against a revived Manly and the Warriors in what was one of the games of the year. A 68-0 thrashing of the Tigers proved Penrith still had plenty of points in them, before a disappointing middle part of the season. While impacted by Origin, losses against three Queensland clubs – Gold Coast, North Queensland and Brisbane – had some questioning Penrith’s Premiership credentials. But as always, the Panthers won when it mattered. A 42-18 thumping of the Raiders in Mudgee was just what the doctor ordered, and a last round win over the Tigers secured the Minor Premiership. Losses to Premiership heavyweights the Warriors and the Roosters were tough to take, but offered important lessons. Another Finals series beckoned, and after an impressive win over the Roosters in the opening weekend, Penrith fell in the Preliminary Final against Newcastle – headlined by a devastating leg injury to Nathan Cleary that prematurely ended his year. When reflecting on the 2026 season, one may use the word unsettled. While Penrith did enough to dominate the competition in so many facets, things were never quite as clear as previous years. Ivan Cleary struggled with nailing down his perfect halves combination, dropping Blaize Talagi from five-eighth at one stage as both Jack Cole and Jack Cogger came into the picture. Penrith’s defensive deficiencies on the left clearly had the coaching staff rattled at times and they continued to tinker in an attempt to get things right. The Panthers also had to deal with Kenny being out for a huge chunk of the season, and while Freddy Lussick did an admirable job filling in through the early weeks, opposition sides figured him out pretty quickly by the end of his stint. A serious pec injury to Isaah Yeo also left Penrith unsettled towards the end of the year.

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the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

SE A SON RE VIE W

short of the decider There is a lot to package into the 2026 highlights. Tom Jenkins’ remarkable try-scoring feats, which at one stage had him on track to break NRL records. Nathan Cleary’s dominance throughout the season, further establishing himself as the game’s best player – topped off with a stunning State of Origin victory. In the background of it all was news about future change – Ivan Cleary announcing he would not continue with the club beyond his current contract, while Brian To’o signed a rich deal with the Papua New Guinea Chiefs and

will head there in 2028. There is much to be happy about in 2026. And when all is dissected, there is no doubt more things to be positive about than not. But the ultimate measure of success comes on Grand Final Day and Penrith will watch that unfold from the grandstand. You can only imagine it would make them hungrier. There are clouds hanging over the start of the 2027 season. While a return to Penrith at the new HelloWorld Stadium will offer plenty of hope and anticipation, the long-term nature of injuries to Cleary, Yeo and Talagi will be a major talking point in the lead-up to kick-off next year.

In the end, Penrith’s 2026 season will be remembered for plenty of highs – but ultimately, the most heartbreaking of conclusions.

The Panthers had a strong season. Photo: NRL Photos.

The Penrith Panthers were the 2026 Minor Premiers. Photo: NRL Photos.

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

THE STORY OF SEASON 2026 ROUND 1

ROUND 2

ROUND 3

ROUND 4

Penrith open their campaign with an impressive 26-0 thrashing of defending Premiers Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium. Thomas Jenkins scores a double in the impressive victory away from home.

The Sharks are no match for the Panthers in Bathurst, with Penrith leading 18-0 at half-time and going on to win 26-6. A sellout crowd of 12,000 watches on as the Panthers please the Bathurst locals.

Thomas Jenkins scores four tries and Nathan Cleary has a blinder as the Panthers tear the Roosters apart at Allianz Stadium. Penrith score seven tries to one in the 40-4 thumping.

The Battle of the West sees Penrith demolish Parramatta 48-20 at CommBank Stadium, with Isaah Yeo opening the scoring with a try after five minutes. The Eels are never really in the match.

ROUND 5

ROUND 6

ROUND 7

ROUND 8

Penrith shock Melbourne 50-10 in a win that sounds a huge warning to the rest of the competition and extends the team’s unbeaten streak to five. Thomas Jenkins grabs a double.

Penrith are brought down to earth with a thud on a Thursday night at Accor Stadium, with Canterbury pulling off a major upset and winning 32-16. It is Penrith’s first loss of the season.

A Nathan Cleary field goal in Golden Point secures Penrith a thrilling 23-22 win over the Dolphins. Redcliffe run riot with three tries in nine minutes at one stage in the second half.

Dylan Edwards scores three first half tries and the Knights offer very little in response as Penrith cruise to a 44-12 win at McDonald Jones Stadium. The Panthers take a 24-6 lead into half-time.

ROUND 9

ROUND 10

ROUND 11

ROUND 13

Penrith hang on to beat a resilient and revived Manly 18-16 in front of nearly 15,000 fans at CommBank Stadium. An Izack Tago try 20 minutes from full-time ends up being the match winner.

Blaize Talagi grabs an early double as Penrith take an 18-12 lead into half-time over Canberra. While the Raiders score first in the second half, Penrith ultimately come home strong to win 30-18.

Penrith do enough to beat last placed St George-Illawarra in a scrappy Magic Round match. Ivan Cleary’s side wins 28-6 after taking a 12-0 lead into half-time. Thomas Jenkins scores a double.

In one of the games of the year, Penrith hang on to beat the Warriors 20-18 at CommBank Stadium. It’s billed as an early Grand Final preview, with the two sides producing defensive masterclasses.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

ROUND 14

ROUND 16

ROUND 17

ROUND 18

Penrith show no mercy against the Wests Tigers at CommBank Stadium, leading 36-0 at half-time and going on to win 68-0 in front of 21,803 fans. Freddy Lussick grabs a double.

A bumbling Penrith falls to Gold Coast 19-18 in a surprise defeat at Cbus Super Stadium. A Zane Harrison field goal close to full-time secures the unlikely win for the home side.

The Panthers suffer back-to-back defeats for the first time this season, losing 26-12 to North Queensland. It’s one of Penrith’s most disappointing performances of the season.

The Panthers bounce back from consecutive losses to demolish South Sydney 36-14 at CommBank Stadium and ensure they go into a next round bye full of confidence and with a win under their belts.

ROUND 20

ROUND 21

ROUND 22

ROUND 23

Brisbane cause a boilover at CommBank Stadium, upsetting Penrith 14-12 and leaving plenty to question the Panthers’ Premiership credentials. Brisbane keep their Finals chances alive.

Parramatta start well and lead Penrith 12-6 at half-time, but the Panthers storm home with three second half tries to win the Battle of the West for a second time this season, 24-18.

Liam Martin grabs a double, as does Thomas Jenkins while Jaxen Edgar scores his first NRL try as the Panthers punish the Raiders in Mudgee. 10,000 watch on as the Panthers win 42-18.

The Warriors declare their Premiership credentials with a punishing 28-12 win over Penrith in Auckland. The Panthers storm home late, but it isn’t enough to stop a home team thumping.

ROUND 24

ROUND 25

ROUND 26

ROUND 27

The Roosters target Nathan Cleary and ultimately hold on to beat the Panthers 12-6 at CommBank Stadium. It’s back-to-back losses against Premiership heavyweights for the Panthers.

Penrith bounce back to their winning ways with a 22-14 victory over Melbourne in wet conditions at AAMI Park. With sin bins and set restarts galore, the game reaches no great heights.

Penrith get revenge on Canterbury and end their Finals hopes with a 24-10 defeat at CommBank Stadium. Liam Martin grabs two tries in his best performance of the season

Penrith secure the Minor Premiership with a comfortable 38-10 win over Wests Tigers. Thomas Jenkins scores a double, as does Casey McLean. The Panthers lead 26-0 at the break.

FINAL S WEEK 1 Penrith earn a week off with a 19-12 victory over the Roosters in the opening weekend of the Finals at CommBank Stadium. Liam Martin, Dylan Edwards and Brian To’o score tries while Nathan Cleary kicks a 70th minute field goal. Cleary is sin-binned just before halftime in a dramatic moment. With the scores level at 12-all at the break, the Roosters fail to score a point in the second half.

FINAL S WEEK 3 Nathan Cleary suffers a devastating broken leg as Penrith fall 22-14 to the Knights in the Preliminary Final. Dylan Edwards and Blaize Talagi also pick-up injuries in a disastrous end to the season. Phoenix Crossland was sent off for Newcastle, but the Knights managed to hold on with 12 players for the entire second half to record one of the club’s most famous victories and secure a spot against the Sydney Roosters in the Grand Final.

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with The Masked Panther

Panthers toast tough finish Cleary injury rocks Panthers: The Panthers held a very subdued Mad Monday of sorts this week, still deflated and rattled by the events at Accor Stadium on Sunday. Nathan Cleary’s horror injury shook the team significantly, and the fallout has months and months to play out. Cleary had emergency surgery on Sunday night at Royal North Shore Hospital. I understand the very experienced Dr Andrew Wines conducted the surgery. The double leg fracture was bad – there is no sugar coating it. It’ll be some time before the full impact is known, but the chances of Cleary being ready for the opening of the 2027 season are slim. He posted a photo from hospital on Monday, declaring: “I’ll be back”, and thanking everyone for their support.

Self-made momentos: A number of Panthers fans are planning to make unofficial membership cards next year so they still have a physical memento of their 2027 membership. The club is dumping physical cards next year, with only digital access to be offered. Spotted: Panthers CEO Matt Cameron making his way from the broadcast area to the dressing sheds in a rush after learning of the seriousness of Nathan Cleary’s injury on Sunday.

Bench start explained: Nathan Cleary reportedly only got through 60 minutes of training on Thursday, which made the final decision he would start Sunday’s Preliminary Final from the bench. Cleary prepared away from the main squad on Sunday, not taking part in the warm-up on-field. All was going to plan – until the unthinkable happened.

Nathan Cleary in hospital.

Spotted: Eels legend Nathan Hindmarsh watching son Buster go around in the NSW Cup Grand Final on Saturday night. The youngster will forever have dinner table bragging rights over his famous Dad, already winning a Grand Final so early in his grade career.

Spotted: Panthers Directors Greg Alexander and Mark Mulock at CommBank Stadium on Saturday cheering the Panthers’ lower grades on to victory in the Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup Grand Finals.

Movements begin: Now that Penrith has entered off-season mode, you can expect a busy period on the player movement front. The club should soon formally announce some re-signings, including that of skipper Issah Yeo (who I revealed some weeks ago had agreed to terms on a new deal). And there’s two players who I keep hearing may be on the move if agreements can be reached: Izack Tago and Luron Patea. Both are contracted to be at the club next season, but I wouldn’t be putting my house on that. That’s all, folks: This is the final edition of my column for the year. I’ll be back next year in the freshly launched Panthers News, which will replace Extra Time in the Weekender. Remember, you can always email your news, gossip and sightings to maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

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Forgotten injury: The man who shouldn’t be forgotten in all the Cleary coverage is Blaize Talagi, his one-time halves partner. Talagi ruptured his achilles in the second half of the Preliminary Final and faces a long road to recovery. He won’t be back until the middle of next year. Where that becomes even more problematic for the youngster is that he’s off-contract at the end of next season. He would have been hoping a strong start to 2027 would have either convinced Penrith to re-sign him or showed other clubs his value.

Shirt celebrates history: A new shirt has lobbed in the Panthers shop that true fans of the game will love. It’s a collaboration between Steeden and Panthers, featuring classic Steeden football artwork and classic Panthers logos. It’s available online or in-store.

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

ANALYS IS

Looking up to the Panthers I Lang on

League with Peter Lang

could think of no better role model for my daughters than Panthers coach Ivan Cleary and the current crop of Penrith players. The way Ivan and the players handled the loss to the Newcastle Knights in Sunday’s Preliminary Final was nothing short of inspiring. I’ll start with the players first. Let’s look at Nathan Cleary and Dylan Edwards. For Nathan to even play on what we now know was a broken foot, showed incredible fortitude and then for Dylan to play the whole second half of the game with a ruptured posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in his knee. That’s called courage. Then there was the gesture that even Ivan said made him feel emotional. It was after seeing their co-captain Nathan go down with one of the worst on-field injuries you can suffer, a severe compound fracture (an open fracture) to his left lower leg and ankle. The gesture came once Nathan was safely on the medicab. He watched every Penrith player walk over and one-by-one tap his son, their skipper, on the shoulder to let him know they were thinking of

him. That’s called respect. The fact that every Penrith player shook hands with every Knights player after the match despite being shattered after losing the game under difficult circumstances. That’s called being a good sport. Now there’s a reason why this current crop of players possess all these redeemable qualities. And that’s because they are led by a man named Ivan Cleary, a great leader because he leads by example. Ivan lost no fans but gained plenty after his post-match press conference on Sunday. He would have been hurting badly after seeing what happened to his son and then watching him being taken in an ambulance to hospital. Yet he still had the wherefore to coach his team right until the fulltime hooter sounded. As he said in the press conference, when asked how he did it, “The show must go on”. To be able to still have such focus to coach, to continue to be a team player and care for the other players and try and steer them to victory. That’s called being a great coach. Then instead of being angry or blaming the opposition, Ivan instead congratulated the opposi-

tion for the win not once, but twice. No bitterness or excuses, just humility. That’s just called being a wonderful human being. Courage, respect and being a good sport, they are all qualities I want my daughters to posses as they grow up. Being a more gracious person, well maybe there’s a thing or two I can take out of Ivan’s playbook in that regard. I have one wish for Ivan Cleary in 2027. I sincerely hope he gets the chance to coach both his

sons, Jett and Nathan, to a first grade premiership next year. It would be the perfect finish to a wonderful coaching career. And to a wonderful father and role model as well.

Dylan Edwards and Nathan Cleary. Photo: NRL Photos.

th on th Well done to the Panthers another amazing year. The team at RE/MAX wishes the Penrith Panthers all the best in recovering, and we can’t wait to see you back on the field next season!

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

LUK E PRIDDIS MEDAL

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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.

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73 13th Moses Leota

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63 14th Luke Garner

5th

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44 15th Jack Cogger

6th

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34 16th Freddy Lussick

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30 17th Mitch Kenny

8th

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27 18th Billy Phillips

9th

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25 19th Jaxen Edgar

10th Liam Henry

21 20th Izack Tago

11th Casey McLean

20 21st Scott Sorensen

NE W S

Cleary stands out in 2026

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Editor Troy Dodds, rugby league journalist Nathan Taylor and veteran rugby league writer Peter Lang throughout the season. The four select the best three Penrith players in every game, awarding points on a 3, 2 and 1 basis. It is the second year in a row Cleary has taken home the honour. Cleary polled a total of

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hampion Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary has been named the Weekender’s Player of the Year, taking home the Luke Priddis Medal. Named in honour of Penrith’s first ever Clive Churchill Medal winner Luke Priddis, the Luke Priddis Medal is voted on by Priddis, Weekender Managing

Luke Priddis Medal winner Nathan Cleary.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

120 points through the season, finishing 13 clear of the second placed Dylan Edwards. Thomas Jenkins’ try-scoring feats ensured he finished in third spot. In total, 21 players polled points throughout the season. Cleary finishing on top is no surprise. He dominated the regular season, leading the competition in kick metres, all kicks and attacking kicks, and scoring 218 points (the second best in the NRL). He also landed 96 goals this season, and two field goals. Along with Isaah Yeo, he co-captained Penrith to the Minor Premiership and through to a Preliminary Final. Nathan Cleary is without doubt a worthy recipient of the Luke Priddis Medal as Player of the Year.

E X TR A TIME AWARDS

The best of the best from 2026 won an impressive 18 games this season, with the JJ Giltinan Shield now proudly on display in the foyer of Panthers Leagues Club. 2025 winner: Panthers open season in Las Vegas

Extra Time Player of the Year: Nathan Cleary For the second consecutive year, Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary has been judged Penrith’s best for season 2026. Cleary topped this year’s Weekender Luke Priddis Medal poll with 120 points, beating out nearest rivals Dylan Edwards on 107 points and Tom Jenkins on 73 points. The 28-year-old halfback played in 23 games for the Panthers this season, recording six tries, 96 goals and two field goals for a personal tally of 218 points. It’s set to be a huge week for the injured star, with many predicting him to win his first Dally M Medal last night. 2025 winner: Nathan Cleary

Extra Time Rookie of the Year: Billy Phillips At the start of the year, no one could’ve predicted the impact this young backrower from Lake Cargelligo would have on this experienced Panthers side. Phillips, a hard-nosed quiet achiever played 23 games in first grade this season – more than any other Panthers rookie – scoring two tries and earning himself a two-year contract extension in the process. Phillips played all but one game this season off the interchange bench, with his lone start in the backrow coming against South Sydney in Round 13. Phillips also played in his first NRL Finals Series last month and is the red-hot favourite to take out the coveted Ben Alexander Rookie of the Year award next week. 2025 winner: Luron Patea

Extra Time Headline Event of the Year: Nathan Cleary suffers compound fracture in Finals loss

Nathan Cleary against the Knights. Photo: NRL Images.

Extra Time Win of the Year: v Tigers, Round 14 Afternoons like the one on Sunday, June 7 will be hard to forget for any Panthers fan. Up against the Wests Tigers at CommBank Stadium, the top of the table Panthers put on an absolute clinic against their western Sydney rivals, pummelling the Tigers into oblivion 68-0. In front of more than 21,000 fans, the red-hot Panthers ran in a whopping 12 tries to zero with nine different players crossing the tryline. Co-captain Nathan Cleary scored a try and booted nine goals in the monster win for a total of 22 individual points. The 68-0 victory was also Penrith’s biggest ever win in their history, surpassing their previous record win of

72-12 over Manly in 2004. 2025 winner: v Broncos, Magic Round

Extra Time Moment of the Year: Panthers claim Minor Premiership Penrith snatched the coveted JJ Giltinan Shield in a thrilling final round shootout, crushing the Wests Tigers 38-10 at CommBank Stadium. Entering the final day trailing the Warriors on points, Ivan Cleary’s men needed a victory to leapfrog the Auckland-based club, who had temporarily claimed top spot after a gritty 31-30 win over Manly. The ruthless Panthers left nothing to chance, dismantling the Tigers to secure their fourth Minor Premiership in seven seasons on points differential. The Panthers

All eyes were on Nathan Cleary’s troublesome fractured right foot heading into Sunday’s Preliminary Final against the Newcastle Knights, however it was his other leg that stole the show. Starting the game from the interchange bench, the superstar halfback finally hit the playing field midway through the first half with scores level at 6-all. Roughly 10 minutes after entering the match, Cleary took the ball up to the defensive line. Knights hooker Phoenix Crossland dragged Cleary down awkwardly, executing a hip-drop technique. Cleary immediately screamed out in pain, suffering a severe compound fracture and ankle dislocation. Crossland was subsequently sent off for the remainder of the match, while Cleary left the field on a medicab receiving medical treatment and was rushed to hospital in an ambulance for emergency surgery. Penrith went on to lose the Preliminary Final 22-14, despite playing against a 12-man Newcastle side for 45 minutes. Cleary has declared he’ll be back, posting from his hospital bed soon after the surgery. Crossland fronted the NRL judiciary on Tuesday night and will miss the Grand Final. 2025 winner: From the wooden spoon to the Finals

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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What a season, Panthers! Proud to be Minor premiers and true community champions. Thank you for the memories, the excitement, and the pride you have brought to Penrith. The LMAC tteam and all of Penrith are sending positive vibes to Nathan, his family, and the team.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

S TATE CHAMPIONSHIP

THE FINAL WORD

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 | 1.20PM | ACCOR STADIUM | REF: KIEREN IRONS

NATHAN TAYLOR

he Penrith Panthers Rugby League Academy was full of mixed emotions this week. On one side of the building was a devastated NRL team, still picking up the pieces from their shocking Preliminary Final loss to Newcastle, while on the other side of the building was a jubilant NSW Cup outfit, who were not only celebrating one trophy acquisition but preparing to win another. This Sunday afternoon at Accor Stadium, the Penrith Panthers will play a role in Grand Final Day after all when their premiership-winning NSW Cup side take on Queensland Cup champions the Redcliffe Dolphins in the 2026 NRL State Championship. Penrith qualified for this Sunday’s blockbuster against the Dolphins after a dominant 36-6 victory over the Newtown Jets in the NSW Cup Grand Final last Saturday night at CommBank Stadium. The Panthers ran in seven tries to one in the thrashing to secure their first NSW

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Cup title since the 2022 season. North of the border, Redcliffe were too strong for the Sunshine Coast Falcons 28-18 in the QLD Cup Grand Final. The Dolphins trailed 18-10 at half-time before turning it around in the second half to win their first premiership since 2018. Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, former NRL forward turned rookie Panthers NSW Cup coach Matt Eisenhuth said pure joy turned to despair in the space of 24 hours. “For me, personally, and the playing group, it was such a high winning the comp on Saturday. That’s been the goal all year and we celebrated that as you would expect,” he said. “Then we all wanted to get behind the NRL boys on Sunday, but that day was just flattening. The mood got totally sucked out of the club – not only because of the grim loss but the devastating injuries to Nat (Cleary) and Blaize (Talagi).” Despite now being a coach in the famed Panthers system, Eisenhuth felt Penrith’s loss on Sunday to the Knights as deeply as he would as if he was still one of the players. “At the club, whether you’re a coach

or a player, you’re so invested in wanting everyone to go well. We got to the point of where we wanted to be. We put ourselves into a position to get to the Grand Final and we just fell short,” Eisenhuth said. “At the end of the day, we had the opportunity to win even after the injuries, but we couldn’t get it done. That’s footy. Life goes on.” And life most certainly will go on for Eisenhuth and 22 of his troops this Sunday as they prepare to face a red-hot Dolphins outfit brimming with NRL talent including Trai Fuller, Jake Averillo, Brad Schneider and Felise Kaufusi. “The Dolphins have a stacked team,” Eisenhuth said. “Felise Kaufusi has been named. There will be a lot of emotion heading into the game, and they’ll be up for it. We’ll have to match that and go with them.” Eisenhuth is no stranger to State Championship games having played in Penrith’s victorious 2022 team. He said he’ll draw on that experience this week when he motivates his players. “This week is really cool; we have

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another opportunity to win another trophy!” Eisenhuth said. “We don’t know much about our opposition, but we can do a little bit of film on them. It’s a completely different game. It’s going to come down to the simple stuff early. Whoever gets the simple stuff right and gets off to a good start will put themselves in a good position to win.” It’s been a huge year for Eisenhuth, who secured the role of Penrith’s NSW Cup coach right before the season started. Still under contract as a player for this year, Eisenhuth had to make the difficult decision to retire prematurely and take on a new career path. “Coaching was not something I wanted to do. I had another year to play but I was starting to dip my toe into welfare and education courses,” Eisenhuth said. “Everyone wants to stay in footy, but you’ve got to find something that you’re passionate about. I felt like I could dive into that (welfare and education). “But when Ivan offered me the coaching role, I sat back and thought I have to retire early to do it.”

2GB 873 | ABC 702

After much thought and consideration, Eisenhuth decided the best way to help young talent is to hang up his footy boots and pick up the coach’s whistle and clipboard. In his first season as reserve grade coach, he’s been a huge success. Not only did his side win the NSW Cup Grand Final last Saturday with ease, but they were also Minor Premiers. Eisenhuth said he’s “blessed” with the amount of guidance he’s received during his debut season. “Benny Harden is the attack coach but he was the Cup coach for the past three years and before that it was Peter Wallace for three years. They’re both working in the NRL now,” he said. “I’m sitting across from them every day. Whatever questions, ideas or queries I have, I just bounce off them, and Ivan as well! “They’ve all been super helpful throughout this journey. My team wouldn’t be doing well without those boys as well.” The Penrith Panthers take on the Redcliffe Dolphins for the NRL State Championship this Sunday at 1.20pm at Accor Stadium.

UPDATES ON NRL.COM

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

NRLW MATCH PRE VIE W EMILY CHATE

THE

FINAL WORD Broadcast

he storyline couldn’t be better: a rematch of last year’s Grand Final, with the added emotion of farewell games for some of the NRLW’s most respected players. Now in its ninth year, the NRLW has grown from a fourteam competition into a thriving 12-team season featuring some of the game’s best athletes. Even casual fans will know the big names: Ali Brigginshaw, Millie Elliott, Isabelle Kelly, and Tamika Upton. These are the players who have the ability to create special moments when the pressure is at its highest. This Sunday, the Sydney Roosters will face the Brisbane Broncos to determine the winner of the 2026 NRLW season. It will be more than just a game this weekend. It’s a grudge match between two sides that met in last year’s decider, where the Broncos prevailed 22-18

to claim their fourth NRLW premiership. But the Roosters are no strangers to Grand Final success either, having claimed two titles of their own. Adding even more emotion is the retirement of some of the game’s greats. Broncos veteran Ali Brigginshaw will play her final NRLW game after a remarkable career. The 36-yearold has spent her entire NRLW career in Brisbane, becoming one of the competition’s most respected players. Brigginshaw has also represented Queensland and Australia, captaining both sides. Her teammates will no doubt draw inspiration from giving their leader the perfect farewell. The Roosters will farewell two senior players in Corban Baxter and Millie Elliott. Baxter was a foundation member of the Roosters’ NRLW team and will retire as a one-club player. She captained the side to its first premiership in 2021. Elliott is another fan favourite and one of the most decorated players in the competition. A

four-time premiership winner, she has lifted the trophy twice with the Broncos, once with the Knights and once with the Roosters. She will be hoping to add another ring to her collection after reaching her 50th NRLW appearance in last week’s Preliminary Final against the Raiders. The Roosters enter the Grand Final undefeated and will be confident, although tightening up some defensive issues could prove crucial. Centre Isabelle Kelly is the player to watch from their side. The Broncos have talent across the park, including Tamika Upton, Julia Robinson, Jesse Southwell and Romy Teitzel. Upton is the standout, having already claimed her second consecutive RLPA Player of the Year Award this week. Expect a high-quality contest with plenty of attacking opportunities. Ultimately, defence will decide the result. Kick-off is at 4pm. Tip: Roosters by 6.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 | 4.00PM | ACCOR STADIUM | REFEREE: BELINDA SHARPE

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the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

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TROY DODDS

t’s the Grand Final that, on paper, should never have been. The two Preliminary Finalists who had the weekend off went out last weekend, leaving the fourth placed Sydney Roosters and the seventh placed Newcastle Knights to battle it out in the season decider. There is a clear head and heart battle at play ahead of this one on Sunday. The head obviously says the Roosters. They are battle hardened, experienced and have had their eyes on the prize all season. At times when things looked to be getting off the rails, Trent Robinson found a way to steady the ship. They hit their straps at the right time of the year, and stayed relatively under the radar as far as premiership talk went, likely enjoying the attention put on sides like Penrith.

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Newcastle meanwhile is the rugby league fairytale everyone, except Roosters fans, appears to be on board with. An incredible comeback story – from wooden spooners to potential Premiers in just 12 months. Justin Holbrook has rediscovered Newcastle’s DNA. It had been lost in the Adam O’Brien years, and the connection between the team and one of rugby league’s most loyal cities was waning. The scenes post-game at Accor Stadium on Sunday showed just how they have come together again, galvanised by a side constantly written off but now with a place booked in the big dance. Newcastle will obviously be without Phoenix Crossland, but injury and suspension woes have worried Newcastle little this year. The key to the Knights causing a monumental upset here lies with Kalyn Ponga and Sandon Smith. They need to have the games of their

CHANNEL NINE

lives. If they are at their absolute best, they may just be a chance of stopping the Roosters. But I fear the Roosters will just be too clever for the Knights. I like this Roosters team and I’ve feared them since before a ball was kicked this year. The likes of Naufahu Whyte and Lindsay Collins set the tone so well, and then you’ve got the creative Sam Walker and the sensible Daly Cherry-Evans, whose reactions to opportunities are still top level this late in his career. And then there’s top-class finishers like Robert Toia, Mark Nawaqanitawase and Daniel Tupou to get the points. The Knights have earned a reputation of scoring points from anywhere on the field but the Roosters do that too. Yes, you can have an obvious Nawaqanitawase try out wide – but the likes of Collins or Victor Radley are just as likely to crash over and James Tedesco is always sniffing around. James Tedesco. How good is he?

The Knights will want this game to stay close for as long as possible. If the Roosters get out to a lead, I can’t see Newcastle clawing their way back. But if they can stay in the game, belief will grow – and they’ll take confidence from their defensive prowess against the Rabbitohs, Warriors and Panthers to believe that they can get the game late. Write off Newcastle at your peril. The experts have done so for three weeks of the Finals and Justin Holbrook’s side has proven them wrong every single time. And it’s worth noting that both of Newcastle’s previous Premierships have come in unlikely circumstances – underdogs against Manly in 1997 and Parramatta in 2001. Every rugby league fairytale needs a villain. I get the feeling the Roosters will play that role well on Sunday night. Tip: Roosters by 13.

2GB 873 | ABC 702 | SEN

UPDATES ON NRL.COM

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

GR AND FINAL Naufahu Whyte.

Why the Roosters can beat the Knights KEELY MARSH

he Roosters have one thing Newcastle cannot manufacture overnight: experience. Victor Radley, Daly Cherry-Evans and captain James Tedesco have all been through the biggest games rugby league can offer. When the pressure rises and the Grand Final becomes a battle of composure, those big game players could be the difference. And the Roosters side has plenty to play for. Mark Nawaqanitawase and Angus Crichton are preparing to leave the NRL for rugby union, while Cherry-Evans is set to finish his NRL career with a move to Hull FC. There is a genuine opportunity for the Roosters to send their departing teammates out with the ultimate prize.

But it is not just the old heads carrying this side. Robert Toia has enjoyed a breakout 2026, scoring 15 tries and producing 18 line breaks across 23 games. His combination of power and explosiveness has given the Roosters another dangerous attacking weapon. In the middle, Naufahu Whyte has been almost impossible to stop. His 2026 numbers have been enormous, leading forwards for post contact metres, and over 4,000 run metres, his work rate has made him a constant headache for his opposition packs. Then there is Sam Walker. Unpredictable, instinctive and capable of producing something from nothing, Walker is exactly the type of player who can change a Grand Final in seconds. With Nathan Cleary out of Australia’s World Cup

campaign, is Walker now in the conversation for the Kangaroos? And the Roosters have another important recruit in Reece Robson, whose arrival has added toughness and reliability through the middle. The Knights cannot be dismissed. They have earned their place on the biggest stage and have plenty of belief behind them. Their coach Justin Holbrook also knows the Roosters intimately, having previously worked as an assistant under Trent Robinson. He knows their systems. He knows their strengths. But so do the Roosters. Newcastle are living on a dream. The Roosters have experience, motivation and players desperate to make their final chapter count. That could just be enough to bring the trophy back to Bondi.

THE FUTURE IS SECURE Congratulations to the Penrith Panthers

PREMIERS JERSEY FLEGG NSW CUP

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GR AND FINAL

Why the Knights can beat the Roosters EMILY CHATE

t’s the Grand Final few could have predicted. The fourth-placed Sydney Roosters will face the seventh-placed Newcastle Knights on Sunday, with the game’s biggest prize on the line. The Roosters last lifted the trophy in 2019, and the Knights haven’t tasted premiership glory since 2001. Just last year, Newcastle finished with the wooden spoon. Now, they have the chance to trade it for a Premiership ring come the final whistle. Newcastle has come alive this week. Punters are getting tattoos, the town is alive with red and blue, and club greats have rallied behind a side that has spent years threatening to fulfil its potential. The Roosters come in as favourites and have greater big-game experience across their squad. But Newcastle has belief, momentum and a storyline that has captured the city and the nation. If not now, then when? For years, the Knights have been a team with potential that never quite translated into results. But in the background, they kept

grinding, building and believing, until finally the pieces fell into place. Captain Kalyn Ponga is at the centre of that story. Long touted as a star, Ponga has often been hampered by playing in sides that couldn’t quite take the final step, but he never abandoned the belief that Newcastle could get there. Now, he has the chance to be rewarded for it on the biggest stage. The Knights have X-factor across the park in Bradman Best, Fletcher Sharpe and Ponga, balanced by the experience of Dane Gagai and Tyson Frizell. In a game likely to turn on the smallest moments, their composure could prove crucial. A key player to watch will be Best who in both defence and attack can change a game. Newcastle will be without hooker Phoenix Crossland, who was suspended for four games following a hip-drop tackle on Nathan Cleary. Harrison Graham will step in, with Crossland likely spending the week working closely with his replacement. This won’t rattle the team, if anything it will fuel them even more. For a club that finished last only a year ago, the Knights are now 80 minutes from making history.

Dylan Lucas has been part of Newcastle’s resurgence. Photo: NRL Photos.

THANK YOU PANTHERS! WW59309

)URP 7KH 5R\FH WR WKH IRRW\ ŚHOG ZHĸYH EHHQ SURXGO\ EDFNLQJ WKH 3DQWKHUV DOO VHDVRQ :KDW D \HDU LWĸV EHHQ Congratulations to the team on a fantastic season! 1 Royce Way, Penrith | theroyce.com.au

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

GRAND FINAL

Penrith’s business community y is getting getting g behind behin hin nd the Grand Final!

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

GR AND FINAL DAY

Your Grand Final Day playlist H

olding a Grand Final house party? Driving to the game? Wherever the music is pumping, we’ve got you pumping with the Weekender’s Grand Final Day play list.

Boston – Stella Lefty I’m The Problem – Morgan Wallen I Got a Problem – Drake Milligan Only Wanna Be With You – Hootie & The Blowfish Eagle Rock – Daddy Cool That’s Freedom – John Farnham Good Feeling – Flo Rida Amazed – Lonestar When It Rains It Pours – Luke Combs Chicken Fried – Zac Brown Band Pour Me A Drink – Post Malone

Jimmy Barnes.

(Simply) The Best – Jimmy Barnes Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison Friday I’m In Love – The Cure The Horses – Daryl Braithwaite Choosin’ Texas – Ella Langley Fast Car – Luke Combs

Pre-game with Post Malone.

Luke Combs.

Whiskey In Reverse – Morgan Wallen The Gambler – Kenny Rogers Hurricane – Luke Combs Two Strong Hearts – John Farnham Jack & Diane – John Mellencamp You’re The Voice – John Farnham Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma – Luke Combs Tubthumping – Chumbawamba

Broken Halos – Chris Stapleton World On Fire – Nate Smith Meant To Be – Flordia Georgia Line

Another Drink – Kelsea Ballerini Rich Girl – Daryl Hall and john Oates Hurts So Good – John Mellencamp Drinkin’ Problem – Midland Alright – Darius Rucker I Don’t Want to Miss A Thing - Aerosmith

Chris Stapleton.

Tennessee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton Hot In Herre – Nelly Bar None – Jordan Davis Wagon Wheel – Darius Rucker Toes – Zac Brown Band Over and Over – Nelly Neon Moon – Brooks & Dunn Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd A Little Lime – Jordan Davis Pressure Down – John Farnham Working Class Man – Jimmy Barnes The Best – Tina Turner Hells Bells – AC/DC Go The Mighty Panthers – Jane Scali You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC Follow Me – Uncle Kracker Life Is A Highway – Tom Cochrane A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey Whiskey Glasses – Morgan Wallen Drops of Jupiter – Train Last Night – Morgan Wallen

Get some Kid Rock into your day.

All Summer Long – Kid Rock Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond We Didn’t Start The Fire – Billy Joel One Of Them Girls – Lee Brice Torn – Natalie Imbruglia Austin – Dasha

Kelsea Ballerini.

Aerosmith.

Lies Lies Lies – Morgan Wallen Cold Heart – Elton John and Dua lipa Bound For Glory – Angry Anderson Whoomp! (There It Is) – Tag Team I Had Some Help – Morgan Wallen Time of Our Lives – Pitbull and Ne-Yo Copperhead Road – Steve Earle Barefood Blue Jean Night – Jake Owen Yours – Tucker Wemore It’s All Coming Back To Me Now – Celine Dion Nothing Compares 2 U – Sinead O’Connor Eternal Flame – The Bangles

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the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

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THE Y S AID IT. . . “I thought he beat him then he dropped down on the leg. I thought it was a fair call. There was a fair amount of pressure on the leg which is why it was broken.” Steve Roach on the Phoenix Crossland send-off

“He wasn’t going to let 30,000-plus Newcastle fans down.” “He’s one of my best mates and you don’t like to see that. It’s a lonely place out on the field when you’ve got something like that going on.” Isaah Yeo on Nathan Cleary

Peter V’landys on Chris Minns cancelling trackwork

“I think Peter V’landys just choked on his pickle. That was insanely good .” Clint Stanaway after Kylie’s AFL show

“I want to just pay full credit to the Knights and their supporters, it was just a great day for their club and sets up a pretty good Grand Final.”

“There’s extreme risk of serious injury. You’re off.”

“Rugby league is like a religion for Newcastle.”

Gerard Sutton to Phoenix Crossland

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary

2GB’s Mark Levy

“What an awful moment in this match, in this season. The stadium is silenced by this. He’s had injuries in his career, but nothing like this, Nathan Cleary. I don’t care who you support but that is a very sad moment for the game.” Commentator Andrew Voss

NE W S

Gee gets whistle for decider NATHAN TAYLOR

xperienced referee Adam Gee has been appointed to officiate his first NRL Grand Final since the 2023 epic between the Panthers and Broncos. This Sunday night at Accor Stadium, Gee will have the honour of refereeing his second decider when the Sydney Roosters and Newcastle Knights battle it out for the 2026 NRL Premiership. Gee said he’s very grateful to be given the massive task that he’s worked so hard over the years to achieve. “It has been a bit of a process, the ups and downs, and even this season there’s been the trials and tribulations of being a referee,” Gee said on Tuesday. “It has been a long road, every referee knows

there is that adversity that comes within and externally the criticism, it has been a bit of a long path but just very grateful to be back here again. “The week was a bit of a whirlwind leading into the first one, it all flies so fast and I probably wasn’t expecting the appointment. “You appreciate the next one even more because you don’t know when it is going to come around again after you’ve had that great experience. “It’s just a privilege and an honour to get the call up again.” Assisting Gee will be touch judges Tyson Brough and Phil Henderson, with Chris Butler in the Bunker. Meanwhile, the NRLW Grand Final between the Roosters and Broncos will be refereed by Belinda Sharpe, who takes charge of her fifth decider.

Adam Gee and Belinda Sharpe.

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

PHOTO SPECIAL

Cheers to another huge season T

he Penrith Pantherettes cheered their way through another huge season. The photographers of NRL Photos and Melinda Jane captured some of the highlights...

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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AFTER

Sydney Prestige Metal Roofing is Sydney’s number 1 metal roofing specialist. Family-run and with over 20 years of experience delivering premium Colorbond roofs, gutters, carports & awnings across Sydney, you can be sure you’re receiving the best possible service, no matter the job. We specialise in re-roofing homes. Old tiles recycled, quality Colorbond steel roofing installed. It’s lighter, tougher and virtually maintenance-free. Warmer through cold winters and cooler through ugh the western Sydney summers. Whether your roof is leaking now, showing its age, or you simply want to add value to your home, upgrade to something far more reliable and attractive, we’ve got you covered. All our crews are fully licensed, insured, and we use genuine Colorbond products.

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0415 968 897

ABN: 21 169 714 327 | Licence No: 351622C

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, October 1, 2026

LET’S GET ‘EM NEXT YEAR!

info@sydneyprestigemetalroofing.com.au

PANTHER MEMORIES

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Brad Izzard was one of the toughest players to ever pull on a Penrith jersey, but the end of his career was somewhat sad – and tinged with controversy. He made his debut back in 1982, toiling away and eventually being rewarded with Premiership success in 1991. He even scored a try in the season decider against Canberra. A four-time New South Wales representative, a neck injury caused Izzard significant grief in the 1992 season. In the end, doctors discovered it was a degenerative condition, and he was forced to have surgery. Doctors raised concerns to Penrith management that Izzard should not play on – that he risked paralysis if even the simplest of tackles went wrong. Panthers boss Don Feltis made the tough call to bring the curtain down on Izzard’s career. Izzard was angry, and the pair famously didn’t speak for several years. Izzard unknowingly played his last game for Penrith on Saturday, July 11, 1992 in Darwin of all places. He scored a try in Penrith’s 24-20 win over South Sydney.

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026