Threepeat: Penrith Panthers commemorative magazine

THE INCREDIBLE STORY OF PENRITH’S HISTORY-MAKING PREMIERSHIP RUN NRL CHAMPIONS: 2021 • 2022 • 2023

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introduction

TROY DODDS

L

ife is full of change.

Relationships can come and go, friends drift in and out of our lives. We change jobs and houses, and often the cities in which we live.

But when you have a passion for something like rugby league, it becomes the constant. As love is found and lost, as new friends are made and old ones disappear, there’s still the footy on the weekend.

For me, Penrith Stadium has been a second home for the best part of 35 years.

It all started on the northern hill with my Mum and Dad, cheering on the Panthers in the late 1980s and early 1990s – the 1991 Premiership a faint but memorable moment from that period.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, I started going to the footy with mates – at one point, there would have been 15 or 20 of us. As school ended and Penrith went through

AN INCREDIBLE TIME IN PANTHERS’ HISTORY a rough patch on the field, the group dwindled. You could rock up an hour before kick-off and get a sweet spot in the eastern stand.

The 2003 Grand Final was experienced with my partner at the time, and the years after often alone – there was some lean times there for Penrith.

For a while there I watched every game from the Western Weekender corporate box, but it wasn’t for me. I need to be in the stands, amongst it all.

Since 2012 I’ve watched the Panthers from the back row of the Western Grandstand, with my wife and ever-growing list of mates and familiar faces. We’ve become almost a family up there.

The last three years feel like a reward for the previous three decades. It’s what we always dreamed of. Actually, that’s probably going a bit far. Most of the time, we just dreamed of one Premiership – not three.

The next era will most likely be with my daughter – who has not been alive in a year Penrith have not won the title. She will likely never know the joy of our seats and how special that group has become, given progress will make its way to the stadium soon via an extensive upgrade.

This has been a special period in the history of the Panthers, and of Penrith as a city. It has been an absolute pleasure to lead the Weekender’s coverage of rugby league during this period, and this magazine is intended to collate all three Premierships and allow us to reflect on such an incredible time.

Keep it, savour it, enjoy it. And when times are tough, bring it out and read it again.

Go the Panthers.

Western Weekender 2021.

TROY DODDS The Western Weekender November 2023

Western Weekender 2022.

Three-peat mission complete. Photo: NRL Images.

PUBLISHED BY: Western Sydney Publishing Group MANAGING EDITOR: Troy Dodds

Western Weekender 2023.

CONTRIBUTORS: Nathan Taylor, Melinda Jane, Megan Dunn PRODUCTION: Kacey Wilson, Zoe Merrick, Ian Beard, Madeline Dantier

the building years

CREATING A DYNASTY: FORMER STARS they’ve done in the last couple of years. The way that Nathan and Isaah have led the program with such distinction, they have a real understanding of how each other plays,” he said.

“If I’m talking as a former player, it’s awesome to watch.

If I’m talking as someone who is competing against them, it’s really frustrating.

“However, it is really cool to see it all unfolding to a point where they may be the greatest team ever. I mean, they probably already are.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

W

ith Penrith having achieved rugby league immortality, three Panthers greats have shed light on what it was like to be part of this memorable dynasty from the very beginning…

“I played in Nathan Cleary’s first game, which was also my last” – Jamie Soward.

Former Penrith five-eighth Jamie Soward rode the highs and lows during his three-year stint at the Panthers between 2014 and 2016.

From miracle field goals in Qualifying Finals to being dropped to reserve grade and later released mid-way through his playing contract, Soward was a polarising figure at Penrith at times.

And while the now 38-year-old NRLW coach has been retired from the game for seven years, he still looks back on his time at Panthers fondly and remembers being there for the embryonic stages of the dynasty.

“I still tell people that want to listen to me, that I played in Nathan Cleary’s first game, which was also my last in the NRL. I saw guys like Jarome and Dylan come through the system,” Soward said.

“The way that they play their footy is so cool to watch. The precision and how they know each other’s games. If you go out there, you instantly become a better player, which I think is the ultimate credit to Ivan and people like Jim Jones (recruitment officer).”

Ivan Cleary was Soward’s coach at the Panthers for two years before he was moved on by Phil Gould at the end of the 2015 season for famously being “too tired”.

After the Panthers reached the Preliminary Finals in 2014, things took a turn a year later with Soward – Penrith’s star half – dealing with injury and personal issues, while Cleary was unable to get his troops back to the Finals after such a sensational, yet surprising, season the year prior.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for Ivan,” Soward said.

“Whatever happened with me

Jamie Soward was a star during his short stay at the Panthers.

Photo: NRL Images.

and him in ’15, I wasn’t the best version of myself… I was going through some stuff.

“To see him and Wal (Peter Wallace and current Panthers assistant coach) winning together now is pretty special. They both tried to help me, even though I didn’t want to be

helped at the time.”

Now a member of the Dragons coaching staff, Soward said he admires the way his former club goes about their business even though it frustrates him as a competitor against them.

“I have a lot of respect and admiration for what

“I’m grateful to have experienced it for a short amount of time” – James Tamou.

Penrith’s 2020 Grand Final captain James Tamou always believed his former club were on the verge of greatness.

Tamou captained Penrith for two seasons and led them to their first Grand Final since 2003.

While Penrith were outclassed by the much more experienced Melbourne Storm back in 2020, Tamou always had a sense that they’d be back on the NRL’s grandest day again.

“I remember doing a speech to the playing group after the 2020 Grand Final and I said, ‘what you guys have got going on is

James Tamou captained the Panthers to the 2020 Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

KNEW SOMETHING BIG WAS BUILDING something special, you guys will be here for a very long time. I’ll be watching from afar,” Tamou told the Weekender.

“It’s one of those things where you just knew.”

After departing the Panthers following the 2020 decider, Tamou spent two years at the Wests Tigers before finishing his career back at his beloved North Queensland Cowboys this season.

Tamou said it was always fascinating to hear how other teams and players perceived the backto-back Premiers once he left.

“Other teams looked up to Penrith, they saw them as the pinnacle,” he said.

“Penrith have created such a strong identity around the NRL that other teams look at them and think, ‘we’ve got to be at our best against them’.

“Even players around the competition ask me what James Fisher-Harris is like or what Nathan Cleary is like. I used to get that about Johnathan Thurston.”

After 307 NRL games including one Premiership with the Cowboys, Tamou announced his retirement from the game recently. On Sunday, he’ll be at Accor Stadium as part of the retiring players’ parade.

While he was only coached by

him for two seasons, Tamou said he’ll be forever indebted to Panthers coach Ivan Cleary and believes he’s the catalyst for Penrith’s recent success.

“This all started from Ivan, it definitely started from Ivan. He’s got this ability where he knows who’s bought into a team and who hasn’t,” he said.

“I’ve learned so much from Ivan, like when you recruit, you recruit from character. He would rather recruit someone on character than on talent and would rather teach the skill later on.

“That’s where I learned that from, and every single one of those boys that he’s got under him are all team first – whatever the team needs first, that’s what they are willing to do.

“To experience that and learn from that, it’s been a pleasure and a pleasure to watch.”

“If you cut my chest open, you’ll see a Panther engraved on my heart” – Josh Mansour.

Even though he was a member of the Rabbitohs at the time, Josh Mansour couldn’t help but smile when the Panthers – a club he spent nine years at – beat South Sydney on Grand Final Day 2021.

“Part of me was gutted that I didn’t win at Souths, but I was

Josh Mansour and Jamie Soward celebrate a remarkable Finals victory in 2014. Photo: NRL Images.

Josh Mansour will be remembered as a Panther forever.

Photo: NRL Images.

torn because, at the same time, I was happy to see the boys win it. I was at Penrith for so long, it’s just natural to feel that way,” Mansour told the Weekender.

The winger spent nearly a decade at the foot of the Mountains, debuting in 2012 and remaining at the club until the end of the 2020 season.

The 33-year-old well and truly saw it all during his time at Penrith. He had multiple coaches, multiple captains, multiple bosses in the front office but, despite all the chop and change, his confidence in the club and its ability to be a powerhouse one day never wavered.

“I always believed in where the club was going and that’s why I kept re-signing with the club,” Mansour said.

“Everyone made fun of Gus’ five-year plan but he had a dream and a belief that the club was going somewhere special and I was always on board with that.

“To see where the boys are at now, obviously I’d love to be involved in it, but to be honest I’m happy because this is what I envisioned the club to be, and this is what I was striving for.”

Mansour said the COVID-affected 2020 season – his last at the club – was one he’ll never forget.

The Panthers went on an historic win streak that year before reaching the Grand Final and ultimately losing to the Melbourne Storm.

“I feel like that 2020 season really set the foundation for this amazing run they are going on at the moment,” Mansour said.

“I was with the club for nine seasons and the group I was with in that 2020 year was really special. Everyone was on the same page, they really wanted to make something great, make something special, a legacy and we drew a lot of inspiration from big sporting clubs like the New England Patriots and we even took a leaf out of the Melbourne Storm’s book and how they created their own legacy.

“I feel like that’s what the Panthers are doing now.”

While part of Mansour wishes he was still at Penrith and enjoying everything they’ve achieved so far, he’s just grateful he was there at all and was cheering the Panthers hard on 2023 Grand Final day as the three-peat approached.

“Close friends say, I could’ve played a few more years and been part of this amazing run but it wasn’t my time,” Mansour said.

“In saying that, I’m a fan, I’m an ex-Panther and if you cut my chest open you’ll see a Panther engraved on my heart – that’s the honest truth.

“The biggest thing for Penrith is, you can’t break that team.

“They are so tight; they are like brothers and culture trumps talent, and I feel Penrith have that in spades.”

the coach

THREE-PEAT HAS MADE IVAN CLEARY TROY DODDS

J

ust a few short years ago, Ivan Cleary’s career as a coach was at risk of being remembered for all the wrong reasons.

While he’ll tell you his 369-game run without a Premiership never really weighed on his mind, there can be no doubt the relief that came with game 370 – Penrith’s 2021 Grand Final over Souths – was immense.

That night at Suncorp Stadium, Cleary became the first coach to win a Premiership having coached more than 250 games without one. And he ridded himself of any comparisons to Brian Smith – considered by many as the best coach to never win an NRL title.

More history has been written since.

Prior to Cleary guiding Penrith to the 2023 Grand Final win, no coach had won three straight Premierships in the NRL era.

Cleary was already in rare air having guided his side to four straight Grand Finals, but a threepeat was something else.

He is officially the NRL’s super-

Ivan Cleary arrives at Accor Stadium for the 2023 Preliminary Final. Photo: NRL Images.

Nathan and Ivan Cleary with the trophy after the 2023 Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

coach of the modern era. Move over Bellamy and Bennett.

“It’s hard to explain really, I don’t know if it’s really hit me yet,” Cleary said in the lead-up to the 2023 decider against Brisbane.

“It’s hard to make any Grand Final so I’m trying to think along those lines at the moment rather than the rest, because the rest... there’s so many people involved, people who aren’t even at our club anymore, but they’ve had such an input into players and staff and coaches.”

Stephen Crichton, who won three Premierships under Cleary at Penrith, says the secret to Cleary’s success is that he encourages the players to have fun.

“He’s always told us boys to always have fun and that’s the kind of humour he has as well to cheer the boys up. No matter the result, it’s always about having fun and process driven as well,” he said.

“He’s taught me to be present and always have fun with your

THE MODERN ERA’S NEW SUPERCOACH

Undisputed: Ivan Cleary.

best mates. This is the goal we’ve dreamed of back in school and now to be finally here, there’s no point in stressing. It’s definitely about having fun and lapping up these moments as well. We probably won’t get that opportunity [again], you never know, but I’m pretty keen.”

Lindsay Smith, who played in his first Grand Final in 2023, says Cleary was a key part of his breakout season.

“He’s just given me a lot of confidence to believe in myself and my ability and just to go out there and do my job,” he said.

“He’s unreal. A lot of things, a lot of little quotes that he says, whether that be pre-game or whenever that have resonated with myself this year.

“He gives you the confidence to go out there and play your footy and just enjoy it.”

Jarome Luai, has had to deal with plenty of outside noise during the three-peat period, said Cleary has played a major role in

Cleary is a three-time Premiership winner. Photo: NRL Images.

keeping him grounded and with a clear head.

“Ivan has been that calming presence for myself,” he said.

“He’s a bit like Nathan, he’s helped me tap into that more because I’m a bit on the fiery side out there and I always want to run

these mad plays but you’ve just got to settle down and play what’s in front of you, sort of thing.

“He’s always allowed me to be that guy I’ve want to be, and bring that personality to the team and just bring energy.

“I’m really grateful for Ivan.

He’s a family kind of guy as well.

“He loves getting the kids around the environment and this is the culture he’s built and it’s why we’ve been so successful.”

Cleary’s impact on Penrith since his famous return in 2019 cannot be overstated.

He has taken the club to four Grand Finals in his five seasons since being back at the foot of the Mountains, and won three Grand Finals, a feat many considered impossible.

But the Cleary family as a whole now rightly sits as a key part in Penrith’s history.

Wife Bec’s influence has been strong during the three-peat era– not just on Ivan and superstar son Nathan, but on the club itself.

She was overcome with emotion when speaking after the 2023 decider.

“It was amazing. Even to get to a Grand Final is next level and to do that, I’m so proud of all the boys.

They were amazing,” she told Channel Nine.

The Clearys now sit alongside the Cartwrights as Penrith royalty.

Additional reporting by Nathan Taylor

2021: path to

the decider ROUND 1

Penrith open their 2021 campaign with a convincing 24-0 win over the Cowboys at BlueBet Stadium. The Panthers score four tries to none in the victory.

ROUND 5

In a controversial and at times fiery affair at the foot of the Mountains, Penrith easily account for Ricky Stuart’s Canberra Raiders 30-10.

ROUND 9

Penrith offer Cronulla a footballing lesson with a 48-0 demolition at BlueBet Stadium.

Charlie Staines grabs a hat-trick in the huge win.

ROUND 2

In atrocious conditions at Bankwest Stadium, the Panthers keep their opposition scoreless for a second straight week, beating the Bulldogs 28-0.

ROUND 6

The Panthers are far from convincing against lowly Brisbane but still get the job done, leaving Suncorp Stadium with a 20-12 victory.

ROUND 10

The Panthers put on a show for Magic Round. Nathan Cleary scores three tries and kicks eight goals in a 48-12 thrashing of the Gold Coast.

ROUND 3

Kurt Capewell scores a late try and Viliame Kikau produces an incredible defensive moment on the bell, as Penrith prevail 12-10 over Melbourne.

ROUND 7

Stephen Crichton scores early but an arm wrestle ensues, with Penrith eventually proving too good for Newcastle, winning 24-6 at BlueBet Stadium.

ROUND 11

The Panthers smash a woeful South Sydney in Dubbo. Nathan Cleary scores after three minutes and the tries keep coming in a 56-12 demolition.

ROUND 4

The Panthers blow Manly away 46-6 at Brookvale, with Brian To’o and Viliame Kikau both grabbing doubles. The Panthers took a 22-6 lead into half-time.

ROUND 8

Manly show some fight but Penrith are never really not in control in Bathurst. The Panthers eventually run out 28-16 winners in front of 5,798 fans.

ROUND 12

The Panthers make it 12 wins in a row, with a 30-4 Indigenous Round victory over Canterbury at BlueBet Stadium. Charlie Staines grabs a double.

ROUND 13

Tigers fans are delirious after they beat a second-string Penrith side 26-6 at Leichhardt Oval, as the State of Origin period begins to take hold.

ROUND 14

A late Shaun Johnson field goal breaks an 18-all deadlock and seals a one-point win for Cronulla, as the Panthers record back-to-back defeats.

ROUND 18

The NRL relocates to QLD, and Penrith start the period away from home with a 30-16 defeat of the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

Brent Naden and Dylan Edwards both score doubles as Penrith easily account for St George-Illawarra, running out 34-16 winners.

After falling behind 12-0 early, Penrith click into gear and take a 22-12 lead into half-time against the Roosters. The Panthers eventually win 38-12.

ROUND 19

Brisbane pushes Penrith to the championship minutes, but in the end the Panthers get home 18-12 after leading 4-0 at the half-time break.

ROUND 22

Penrith concede two early tries, but eventually change the momentum and beat South Sydney 25-12. Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo are outstanding.

The Finals Series is turned on its head when Souths spring a major upset, beating Penrith 16-10 in Townsville. The Panthers have several chances to level the game late, but can’t get the job done.

ROUND 20

Chaos surrounds what should have been a blockbuster, as a Penrith side down on troops loses 37-10 to Melbourne in a rescheduled match-up.

ROUND 23

FINALS WEEK 1

ROUND 15

ROUND 24

Penrith’s forwards stand up to get the job done 30-16 over the Wests Tigers in an uninspiring match in Redcliffe in front of 5,351 fans.

FINALS WEEK 2

In one of the great Finals games of all-time, Penrith down arch rivals Parramatta 8-6. In a game ultimately rocked by controversy, Penrith’s defence proves the key in the low-scoring contest.

ROUND 16

Matt Burton kicks a late field goal to give Penrith a 13-12 win over Parramatta in front of an empty BlueBet Stadium, as the COVID lockdown begins.

ROUND 21

Penrith bounce back into form with a hard-fought 20-14 win over the Roosters at Suncorp Stadium. Matt Burton has one of his best games of the year.

ROUND 25

The Panthers take advantage of a Parramatta side missing several key stars, running out 40-6 winners on the Gold Coast. Brian To’o scores a hat-trick.

FINALS WEEK 3

Penrith qualify for their second straight Grand Final after terrorising Melbourne with brutal defence.

Ivan Cleary’s side survives a classic late Storm charge to win 10-6 in one of the games of the year.

2021: build-up to the decider

LOCKDOWNS CONTINUE IN PENRITH AS

H

as there ever been a stranger build-up to a Grand Final than the 2021 decider between Penrith and South Sydney?

The Grand Final was held at Suncorp Stadium, with Brisbane free of COVID lockdowns impacting New South Wales.

But that doesn’t mean it was a smooth week.

In fact, COVID scares through the week saw the Suncorp crowd reduced in the days leading up to the game, and the QLD Government refusing to confirm the game would go ahead until 12 hours before kick-off.

Despite the dramas, the Queensland Premier was lapping

up the attention as the big game approached.

“I have long said Queensland deserves a Grand Final,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said in the lead-up to the game.

“An NRL Grand Final is a dream come true for footy fans across the state.”

As part of Grand Final Week, Penrith images lit up King George Square in Brisbane, while a major fan day was held in the city.

Thanks to NRL Images, these are some of the extraordinary images captured in the build-up to the game. And back here in Penrith, Western Weekender photographers captured the spirit across the city – despite the lockdown....

Game on! All the excitement in the lead-up to the big game.

Masked up: Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo in Queensland.

Brian To’o laps up the attention at a fan day held in Brisbane.

Supporters at a fan day in Brisbane during Grand Final Week.

Penrith fans get into Grand Final week spirit in Brisbane.

No lockdowns in Brisbane as the Grand Final party kicks off.

QLD HOSTS GRAND FINAL WEEK PARTY

Despite lockdowns, houses across Penrith are decorated.

Nathan Cleary signs autographs for fans in Brisbane.

The final word: Ivan Cleary and Wayne Bennett.

Viliame Kikau at a fan day in Brisbane before the Grand Final.

Fans in Brisbane enjoy the lead-up to the Grand Final.

From the comfort of home: Penrith fans get behind the team.

Back home, the Strathdee family get behind the Panthers.

Ivan Cleary and Wayne Bennett face off in Grand Final week.

2021: the game

CRITTER’S INTERCEPT ENTERS FOOTY TROY DODDS

A

Stephen Crichton intercept 14 minutes from full-time will forever be remembered as the moment that decided the 2021 Grand Final and secured Penrith’s third Premiership.

The Panthers won 14-12 but not before a late scare with South Sydney halfback Adam Reynolds missing a sideline conversion four minutes from full-time that would have levelled the scores.

It was a Grand Final for the ages – one decided on defence in a year where blowout scorelines and attack dominated the NRL season.

Penrith’s kicking game was superb – both Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai producing gamebreaking moments with their boots that helped determine the outcome.

Cleary was named the Clive Churchill Medallist for best player on ground. In an emotional moment, it was presented by his father and coach Ivan.

With his busted shoulder in tow, Cleary bounced back from missing a crucial tackle that resulted in Souths’ first try to win an ongoing

The Panthers celebrated after the siren sounded at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday night. Photo: NRL Images.

Dylan Edwards played through pain in the Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

battle with Cody Walker and produce some brilliant defensive moments when it mattered most.

It was a Grand Final that will be remembered more for being the finale of an incredible three weeks for the winning team. Penrith scored just five tries in their last three matches of the season but still managed to claim the title.

It was a heroic defensive period built on trust and confidence, with coach Ivan Cleary admitting post-match that the side hadn’t been able to train all that much given how battered and bruised they were.

“I just can’t wrap the boys enough,” Cleary said.

“The courage these boys have shown. We really couldn’t train the last three weeks as a team.

Luckily the games were so hard each week, that was enough training.

“I think it’s purely on courage that these boys have won this.”

After a bruising opening period, Penrith were first to score in the

FOLKLORE IN EPIC better of his opponent and that Walker’s confidence would be shattered heading into the final minutes.

But the game wasn’t over.

The Rabbitohs earned themselves late field position and Alex Johnston scored with just six minutes to go, giving a departing Adam Reynolds the chance to level the scores with a sideline conversion. It would have been a fairytale moment, but the ball stayed right and Penrith maintained a two point lead.

Reynolds attempted a two point field goal right on the bell but it fell short, leaving the Panthers to play out the final seconds with the footy.

There were incredible scenes of emotion at full-time as the Panthers celebrated a hard fought victory over a newfound arch rival.

It was the club’s third Premiership after they won the title in 1991 and 2003, and wiped away much of the pain of 2020, where the side lost to Melbourne in the decider.

Grand Final when Matt Burton found space in the 16th minute.

The Rabbitohs hit back to level the scores soon after when Cody Walker produced some of his trademark solo brilliance in the 20th minute.

The Panthers took an 8-6 lead into the break after Cleary kicked a penalty goal in the 32nd minute.

Souths came out strong in the second half and were unlucky not to find the try line, but did manage to level the scores through a penalty goal just four minutes into the period, setting up a belter of a second half.

The Rabbitohs appeared on top and looked like they were about to create something down their left side when the game took a dramatic twist in the 66th minute – Crichton intercepting a wayward Walker pass to race into Grand Final immortality.

While Crichton touched down, Cleary and Walker clashed in backplay – the Panthers number seven confident that he’d got the

A devastated Souths coach Wayne Bennett following the game.

Photo: NRL Images.

While the Panthers celebrated in front of 39,322 fans at Suncorp Stadium, back home in Penrith the streets erupted – hundreds of cars lining Mulgoa Road with horns blaring.

Penrith 14 (Tries: Matt Burton, Stephen Crichton. Goals: Nathan Cleary 3/3) def Souths 12 (Tries: Cody Walker, Alex Johnston.

Goals: Adam Reynolds 2/3).

Crowd: 39,322.

Stephen Crichton races away to score a try after taking an intercept in the second half.

Photo: NRL Images.

2021: the aftermath

DELAYED CELEBRATIONS BRING CITY

T

he celebrations around the 2021 NRL Grand Final were unique – with the Panthers winning the competition at Suncorp Stadium due to ongoing COVID-19 lockdowns in New South Wales.

It’s the only NRL Grand Final ever played in Brisbane.

While plenty of people took to the streets on Grand Final night despite the lockdowns – the players and fans would not celebrate together until nearly two months after the Grand Final on Saturday, November 20.

When they did, it was a huge party – a street parade through the streets of Penrith, and a celebration at BlueBet Stadium. Western Weekender photographers Megan Dunn and Melinda Jane captured the events of the day...

The 2021 Premiers in front of their adoring fans at BlueBet Stadium.

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres speaks to the crowd.

Jarome Luai embraces the crowd.

Fans lined the streets to watch the players travel on a bus.

Chairman Dave O’Neill.

A huge crowd gathered at BlueBet Stadium to welcome the team.

OUT OF ITS PANDEMIC SLUMBER

Huge crowds gather to welcome the team back home.

Ivan Cleary talks to the crowd.

The team travelled on a bus through Penrith.

Supports wait to get a glimpse of the players in Penrith.

Players lap up the crowd attention at BlueBet Stadium.

Brian To’o and Stephen Crichton with the NRL trophy.

The Panthers are granted the keys to the city.

2021: what they said

THE KEY VOICES AFTER THE BIG ONE

W

e’ve collected some of the best post-match comments from those involved with the 2021 NRL Grand Final between Penrith and South Sydney. Here’s what the key people said:

“We just kept fighting and fighting right to the end but obviously they were just too good tonight.”

Adam Reynolds

“It feels like a dream.

We’ve been working so long to get to this moment.

I’ve been dreaming of this moment my whole life and it’s finally here. For everyone back in Penrith, that’s for you guys.”

“Ever since full-time in last year’s Grand Final they would’ve been dreaming for this day. They haven’t left a stone unturned and for all the hard work and everything they’ve done – look at that, they’ve won by two points. If they had cut a corner at any stage of the season, if they had backed off at any level, they don’t win the comp.”

Phil Gould

“These players have such a great connection to the community.

Since they’ve had all these kids come through together, they’ve created such an energy out at Penrith and given everyone something to hope for and they delivered tonight – they were fantastic.”

“I can’t put it into words… you work so hard for this, it’s your childhood dream and for it to come true… I’m just on cloud nine right now.”

Liam Martin

Brad Fittler

“That was the worst 10 minutes of my life. I’m so proud of them. I really am. It’s overwhelming.

It’s beautiful, really. I don’t know what to say.”

Greg Alexander

Nathan Cleary

“It would mean a lot to him (Ivan Cleary). It takes you guys off his back. Sometimes you have a monkey on your back; he had a gorilla on his.

It’s just jumped off.”

Wayne Bennett

“First and foremost I want to give all the glory to God… what a year it’s been.

It’s been a massive year for not only myself, but my family and my community as well. I just want to thank my beautiful partner for saying ‘Yes’ and also to the boys for getting us the win.

I’m really grateful to be here, I’m so lucky.”

“Nathan Cleary summed it up in his post-match speech when he said ‘we’ve climbed Everest’ because that’s what it is, a Premiership is rugby league’s Everest and a lot of teams fall by the wayside and don’t get to the summit, but that’s where the Panthers are right at this moment.”

Peter Sterling

Brian To’o “It’s a bit surreal actually… these boys are incredible.

We probably had five guys that shouldn’t have played tonight, they’ve hardly trained and that’s been going on for about three weeks. What can I say? It’s just awesome.”

Ivan Cleary

“It means so much… this is what it sort of feels like we were born for in a way.

We trained so hard all this time, we moved away from home and for all our people back home, this is for you!”

Jarome Luai

“The Panthers celebrate! 13 of these blokes debuted with the Panthers. Six of them local juniors from places like St Marys, Mt Druitt, Minchinbury and Doonside. Well, they thought it was coming last year and I know it’s a fragile statistic to say you’ve got to lose one to win one and these people have had history revisit it.”

Ray Warren

“Everyone wrote us off saying it was too hard for us. We have an awesome squad here, never give up. That’s three in a row, three hard games no one gave us a chance and to still be fighting and come away with it, it’s bloody unreal. It means everything [to Penrith]. We’re sort of pushed aside in Sydney and we’re just hoping they’re proud of us because we’re bloody proud to represent you.”

Isaah Yeo

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2022: path to

the decider ROUND 1

Filling in for Nathan Cleary, Sean O’Sullivan helps guide Penrith to a season-opening 28-6 win over Manly at BlueBet Stadium in front of 16,901 fans.

ROUND 5

Taylan May and Dylan Edwards score early tries as Penrith march to a 32-12 win over Canterbury at CommBank Stadium. Nathan Cleary kicks six from six.

ROUND 9

An eight match winning streak is ended when Parramatta records a 22-20 win over Penrith at BlueBet Stadium, Penrith’s first loss at the venue since 2019.

ROUND 2

The Panthers hold off a strong finish from St George-Illawarra to record a 20-16 win at Kogarah.

Viliame Kikau bags a double in the win.

ROUND 6

Taylan May scores one of the tries of the season as Penrith record a 40-12 thrashing of Brisbane, winning their sixth straight game to start the year.

ROUND 10

The Panthers turn it on in awful conditions in Magic Round, thumping a depleted Melbourne 32-6 at Suncorp Stadium. Izack Tago grabs a double.

ROUND 3

Newcastle’s Mitchell Barnett is sent off in a high-scoring match at Carrington Park in Bathurst.

The Panthers score five second half tries and win 38-20.

ROUND 7

After a tight first half, Penrith pulls away from Canberra in the second half, scoring four tries in a 17 minute period to help set up a 36-6 thrashing.

ROUND 11

A Jarome Luai double helps Penrith to an 18-0 half-time lead over the Roosters at the SCG. The Roosters offer little in the second half and the Panthers win 32-12.

ROUND 4

Nathan Cleary plays for the first time in 2022, and despite an off night with the boot, leads the Panthers to a 26-12 win over South Sydney.

ROUND 8

Gold Coast take a surprise 4-0 lead into half-time, but the Panthers jump out of the blocks in the second half to eventually win 18-4.

ROUND 12

Isaah Yeo scores in just the second minute to help Penrith take control against the Cowboys. The Panthers lead 16-0 at the break and win 22-0.

ROUND 13

Kurt Falls makes his NRL debut as an Origin-depleted Penrith surprises many by producing a 30-18 win over Canterbury at BlueBet Stadium.

ROUND 18

An under-strength Penrith hold on to beat Wests Tigers 18-16 thanks to a late James Fisher-Harris try at CommBank Stadium.

ROUND 22

Penrith are held scoreless for the only time this season, with Melbourne taking advantage of an under-strength home team to win 16-0.

ROUND 14

Nathan Cleary produces one of his best games of the season, tearing apart Newcastle at McDonald Jones Stadium. The Panthers win 42-6.

ROUND 19

Stephen Crichton is hurt in a fiery encounter that sees Penrith eventually out-pace Cronulla to record a 20-10 victory at BlueBet Stadium.

ROUND 23

Liam Martin proves the hero as the Panthers secure the Minor Premiership with a 26-22 win over South Sydney at Accor Stadium.

FINALS WEEK 1

Nathan Cleary returns from a five match suspension to produce a masterclass performance against western Sydney rivals Parramatta. Leading 7-6 at the break, the Panthers go on to record a 27-8 victory, their stoic defence a highlight of the opening weekend of the Finals.

ROUND 15

The Panthers prove too good for the Warriors in Redcliffe, taking an 18-0 lead into half-time before a strong second half results in a 40-6 thrashing.

ROUND 20

Nathan Cleary is sensationally sent off in a dramatic night at CommBank Stadium. Parramatta goes on to record a 34-10 victory in front of a strong crowd.

ROUND 24

Jarome Luai returns from injury and the Panthers demolish the Warriors in their last home game of the regular season, posting a 46-12 victory.

ROUND 16

A controversial night at the foot of the Mountains sees the Panthers continue a strong winning run, defeating the Roosters 26-18.

ROUND 21

In a match overshadowed by Ricky Stuart’s post-match press conference, Penrith prove too good for Canberra in the nation’s capital, 26-6.

ROUND 25

A host of players make their debut as the Panthers rest most of the first grade squad in the final round against the Cowboys.

Penrith go down 38-8.

FINALS WEEK 3

After going down 12-0 to South Sydney early and their Premiership defence at risk of ending a week before the Grand Final, two crucial tries close to half-time put Penrith back in the game. They go on with the job in the second half, eventually winning 32-12 to qualify for the Grand Final.

2022: build-up to the decider

PANTHERS FANS OUT IN FORCE AS THE

E

xcitement was at fever pitch ahead of the 2022 NRL Grand Final, with western Sydney rivals Penrith and Parramatta doing battle.

With no COVID restrictions, fans were able to celebrate the lead-up to the Grand Final in style – something they missed out on in 2021.

Western Weekender photographers Melinda Jane and Megan Dunn captured the excitement of Grand Final Week in Penrith...

Fan day excitement.

Fans celebrate at an open training session.

Fans gathered at a car rally in the lead-up to the Grand Final.

The excitement in Penrith was on another level.

Isaah Yeo meets with supporters at an open training session.

Stars of the show: Fans are interviewed at the pre-match car rally.

BIGGEST BATTLE OF THE WEST NEARS

Fans across the city got into the Grand Final spirit.

Nathan Cleary was as popular as ever at an open training session.

Kids at an open training session.

‘Today’ broadcasted live from Panthers.

Fans at an open training session.

Karl, Sarah, Peter and Royce.

Fans get into the Grand Final spirit.

Locals decorated their houses to support the Panthers.

2022: the game

WE OWN THE WEST: PARRA THUMPED TROY DODDS

T

wo years before on this same stage, the Grand Final was gone at half-time.

Melbourne used their wealth of experience against an overawed Penrith and by the time Ivan Cleary’s side realised they were in a season decider, the trophy engraver was hard at work.

In the space of 24 months, the pain of that October night was used to transform this team into perhaps the greatest Penrith has ever produced – becoming backto-back Premiers, just the second club in the NRL era to achieve such a feat and the first from the foot of the Mountains.

The match played out eerily similar to 2020, but with the roles very much reversed. This time it was Penrith with the experience, and it showed in an opening half onslaught that saw them leading 18-0 at half-time.

The game was over well before that. By the time Brian To’o scored his first try, seven minutes after Stephen Crichton opened the scoring, it was obvious nobody was beating the Panthers.

Penrith had been the dominant

The Panthers lift the trophy after their 28-12 win over Parramatta. Photo: NRL Images.

Taylan May and Jarome Luai celebrate with Ivan Cleary. Photo: NRL Images.

team in the NRL for three years at this point but they saved perhaps their best performance of this period for the Grand Final. With an 86 per cent completion rate, they starved the Eels of the ball and powered over the top of them like it was men against boys.

It was a game with 10 penalties and six set restarts but it felt like Penrith earned every one of their 28 points. There were no easy leg-ups and no shortcuts.

Much like the Storm did in 2020, Penrith put their foot on the accelerator in the opening stages of the second half, putting any question of an Eels revival to bed.

Ironically, To’o scored his second at the exact same time of the game that Ryan Papenhuyzen sprinted away to put the Panthers out of the game 24 months earlier.

The 45th minute try came after a Waqa Blake mistake close to his own line. At the end of the ensuing set, Penrith produced a classy left-side move that ended with To’o crashing over out wide.

AS PENRITH SHINE

The Panthers celebrate Charlie Staines’ second half try.

Photo: NRL Images.

rivalry between the two clubs.

Penrith were never going to let this opportunity slip through their fingers.

Nathan Cleary accepted the trophy postmatch, congratu-

It was the most controversial moment of the Grand Final – referee Ashley Klein awarded the try, but then sent it to the Bunker for referral after a hint of obstruction. Grant Atkins ruled that Viliame Kikau didn’t interfere with Mitchell Moses in the lead-up, giving the try the green lights.

With time and hope slipping away, Penrith’s 22-0 lead quickly became an unassailable 28-0 when Charlie Staines – in his first Grand Final – found a hole in Parramatta’s defence and cut through to score.

Dylan Edwards earned himself a try assist in the lead-up but just moments before he’d produced one of the cover tackles of the season to stop Bailey Simonsson Scott Sattler-like down the touchline.

If there was any disappointment for Penrith, it would come in the final five minutes when Clint Gutherson and Jake Arthur bagged late tries. It was an under-

standable lapse of concentration, and mattered little in the big scheme of things.

For Penrith, the full-time siren cemented back-to-back titles for the first time in the club’s history.

It also signalled the end of the Penrith careers of Api Koroisau and Viliame Kikau, who exit the club having made an enormous impact during a stunning era of success. Both were clearly emotional as the celebrations got underway.

Also emotional was coach Ivan Cleary, who struggled to hold back tears as he rushed on to the field to be with his players.

The biggest hug was saved for son Nathan; the pair embracing in scenes reminiscent of what we witnessed at Suncorp Stadium 12 months earlier.

In the end it wasn’t the Grand Final for the ages many fans were hoping for. The Battle of the West became a one-sided affair that proved just who is the most dominant in this chapter of the long

lating Parramatta on their season.

“We look forward to continuing those battles,” he said.

“To the fans... thank you so much. We’re so blessed to represent Penrith and can’t wait to party with you all.”

Scott Sorensen celebrates scoring a try in the Grand Final.

Photo: NRL Images.

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2022: the aftermath

FANS, PLAYERS CELEBRATE IN STYLE:

A

fter Penrith’s crushing victory over Parramatta in the 2022 Grand Final, fans celebrated with the players the next morning at BlueBet Stadium.

Western Weekender photographer Melinda Jane captured the events of the day...

Brian To’o and Jarome Luai with the trophy.

Fans celebrate after the Grand Final.

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary addresses the crowd.

Supporters celebrate at BlueBet Stadium the day after the Grand Final.

Winners: Spencer Leniu, Jaeman Salmon and Liam Martin.

PARRAMATTA ARE OUR SONS!

Happy fans.

Proud: Brian To’o.

A very vocal James Fisher-Harris.

Dylan Edwards and his teammates continue the celebrations.

State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres celebrates.

Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh.

Fans celebrate.

Fans cheer on the players at BlueBet Stadium.

Api Koroisau and Mitch Kenny.

2022: what they said

THE KEY PEOPLE HAVE THEIR SAY

W

e’ve collected some of the best post-match comments from those involved with the 2022 NRL Grand Final between Penrith and Parramatta. Here’s what the key people said:

“They’re a great team and they made us pay. I’m super proud to be able to lead this club here. It’s really disappointing but that’s footy, someone has to lose and unfortunately it was us tonight.”

Clint Gutherson

“I absolutely love this group and this club. We’ve worked so hard. To be where I am now, I’m so grateful to this club. It’s just the best, living the dream!”

Scott Sorensen

“Parra are our sons.”

“It took me six or seven years to win my first Grand Final. It took me a while to get here, so I’m privileged to be a part of it and enjoyed every second of it.”

Isaah Yeo

James Fisher-Harris “It’s been 11 years and I’ve loved every moment. I’ve been pretty privileged to work with such a great group of people.

They’re such a pleasure to coach, so it’s really cool to have this moment now. I’ve learned lessons every day.”

Cameron Ciraldo

“I’m lucky to even be part of this team. They’re my brothers and I love going to work with them each week.”

Dylan Edwards

“I was really grateful to have another opportunity to play in a Grand Final and really happy that we got the win.”

Brian To’o

“They destroyed and demoralised, winning pretty with speed and finesse one moment, while triumphing ugly with power and toughness the next. Essentially, the wolves starved Parramatta of possession. It was a game for the hunters, not the Hamlets. There was little indecision from the Panthers. In fact, there were times when their play was too instinctive.”

Roy Masters

“It promised to be a western Sydney epic but turned into an 80-minute lap of honour for the defending premiers, the match effectively put to bed the moment Panthers winger Brian To’o dived over for his side’s second try of the night... Penrith’s two premierships confirm their standing as one of the great teams of the NRL era. Any era, really.”

Andrew Webster (journalist) “The coach just said to come out and start fast.

We wanted to put a statement on the game.”

Moses Leota

“They’re a very good team. They played very well that first half. They played too fast for us. We’re disappointed. We were beaten by a better team, they were too good for us tonight. It was a tough road to get here and maybe the tough road took a toll on us.”

Brad Arthur

“I think that first half was the best we’ve ever played.

It’s a privilege to put on a Penrith jersey.”

Nathan Cleary

“To achieve something like that, back-to-back, is crazy.

I love these boys and I’m blessed to be part of this group.”

Jarome Luai

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a team work as well together as this team.

There’s just no ego. Nobody got ahead of themselves.

Their football improved.”

Brad Fittler

“They’re so consistent. They leave their egos at the door, they come in and get on well and do everything for the team.”

Ivan Cleary

2023: path to

the decider ROUND 1

Penrith’s season begins with a shock 13-12 loss to Brisbane on a wet night at BlueBet Stadium.

Stephen Crichton and Soni Luke score for the Panthers.

ROUND 6

Dylan Edwards scores four tries, including a first half hat-trick, as Penrith thrash Manly 44-12 in front of more than 20,000 fans at BlueBet Stadium.

ROUND 10

Penrith bounce back from a shock loss to the Tigers to beat the Warriors 18-6 at Magic Round. A late Spencer Leniu try seals the victory.

ROUND 2

Penrith withstand a late South Sydney comeback to record their first win of the year, a 16-10 victory at BlueBet Stadium in front of almost 17,000 fans.

ROUND 7

Two Nathan Cleary field goals ensure Penrith get home 16-15 against Newcastle in a scrappy game at McDonald Jones Stadium.

ROUND 11

More than 20,000 fans pack into BlueBet Stadium to watch Penrith dismantle the Roosters, winning 48-4 in an eight-tries-toone romp.

ROUND 4

Nathan Cleary kicks an inspiring two-point field goal to force golden point against the Eels, but Parramatta sneak home 17-16 in a Thursday night thriller.

ROUND 8

South Sydney storm home to beat Penrith 20-18 at Accor Stadium, with the Rabbitohs suddenly emerging from the game as Premiership favourites.

ROUND 12

Penrith avenge the Round 1 defeat to Brisbane with a 15-4 victory at Suncorp Stadium, with Nathan Cleary producing a stellar individual performance.

ROUND 5

The Panthers go wild in the nation’s capital, thrashing the Raiders 53-12. Sunia Turuva and Izack Tago both grab doubles in the huge win.

ROUND 9

Penrith’s season is suddenly at a tipping point after the Wests Tigers produce the upset of the season in Bathurst, winning 12-8 in atrocious conditions.

ROUND 14

The BlueBet Stadium crowd is stunned when Nathan Cleary suffers a serious hamstring injury. The Panthers push on to beat the Dragons 26-18.

ROUND 15

No Nathan Cleary, no worries.

The Panthers make light work of the Roosters at Allianz Stadium, recording an impressive 30-6 victory.

ROUND 20

A plucky Dolphins give the Panthers a run for their money, but Ivan Cleary’s side is too good in the end, winning 24-14 in Redcliffe.

ROUND 24

Manly throw everything at the Panthers, and even look on the verge of causing an upset, but in the end the visitors get up 24-14 at Brookvale Oval.

ROUND 16

Without their Origin stars, the Panthers hold their own against the Cowboys in Townsville, but eventually go down 27-23 in Golden Point.

ROUND 21

Try scoring celebrations flow quickly as the Panthers easily account for Canterbury 44-18 in front of a sellout Sunday crowd in Penrith.

ROUND 25

Penrith thump Gold Coast 40-14 at Cbus Super Stadium in their final away game of the regular season, setting up a huge finish to the Minor Premiership race.

FINALS WEEK 1

Nathan Cleary produces one of the finest individual performances in a Finals match for some time, as Penrith run out 32-6 victors over the New Zealand Warriors on a sunny Saturday afternoon at BlueBet Stadium. Cleary scores a try and kicks six goals in the impressive victory.

ROUND 17

Penrith prove too good for Newcastle, recording an important 20-12 victory as the busy representative period rolls on.

ROUND 22

Penrith’s strong form heading towards the business end of the season continues, with a 28-0 thumping of Cronulla at BlueBet Stadium.

ROUND 26

Jarome Luai suffers a shoulder injury on a night to forget for the Panthers. Arch rivals Parramatta produce a stunning 32-18 upset at BlueBet Stadium.

ROUND 18

A relentless Melbourne go 12-0 up, before the Panthers mount an impressive comeback and run out comfortable 34-16 winners at AAMI Park.

ROUND 23

Melbourne look good early, but the Panthers eventually find their groove and produce a 26-6 victory in front of a huge BlueBet Stadium crowd.

ROUND 27

Penrith claim the 2023 Minor Premiership with a 44-12 thrashing of North Queensland in front of 21,525 fans at BlueBet Stadium.

FINALS WEEK 3

Brian To’o scores a hat-trick as Penrith dismantle Melbourne with a dominant performance at Accor Stadium. The Panthers score six tries to one in the 38-4 thumping, qualifying for the 2023 NRL Grand Final and setting up a fairytale farewell for Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu.

2023: build-up to the decider

HISTORY BECKONS AS PENRITH COMES

A

s Penrith closed in on a three-peat, the city came alive with celebration in the lead-up to the game against Brisbane.

Businesses and households decorated in Penrith colours, a massive car parade was held and excitement couldn’t be contained

during a massive week in Penrith.

Thousands attended an open training session at BlueBet Stadium, while TV and radio crews were in town.

Western Weekender photographers Melinda Jane and Megan Dunn captured the incredible week...

Support was fierce during Grand Final week.

Fans gathered at a car parade on Grand Final day.

Fans lap up the excitement of the Grand Final build-up.

Panthers fans on Grand Final day.

Penrith supporters at an open training session.

Nathan Cleary was very popular at the fan day.

ALIVE IN A SEA OF PANTHER SUPPORT

Houses were decorated in Penrith.

The traditional car parade was a big part of Grand Final day.

Panther Pride was everywhere.

Businesses got behind the Panthers.

House decorations went to another level during Grand Final week.

Fans at an open training session.

2023: the game

PENRITH WERE GONE. THEN, NATHAN

I

t was a Grand Final for the ages, capped off with a moment rivalling Kyle Feldt’s last minute try for the Cowboys in 2015, or Darren Albert’s miracle four-pointer in 1997.

The roar around Accor Stadium when Nathan Cleary crossed in the 76th minute to win the game for Penrith was deafening.

Back in Penrith itself, an entire city collectively rose as one when Cleary crossed. It was the stuff dreams are made of.

With the try and subsequent conversion, Cleary had not only brought the Panthers back from the dead to win the season

decider but had put the icing on one of the most memorable 20 minute periods of his career.

There was only 18 minutes left on the clock when Cleary decided to take the game by both hands and deliver a performance that will be talked about for decades to come.

A smart play to set up a try for Moses Leota, a 40/20, a clever decision to force a penalty from a Brisbane drop-out and his own personal four-pointer were the highlights of his heroics.

Earlier, the Grand Final appeared gone.

With the game precariously placed at 8-6 to Penrith early

in the second half, Ezra Mam stepped up in an unstoppable 10 minute period to put Brisbane into a Premiership-winning position. Mam scored three straight tries – carving up the Penrith defence with blistering speed to give the Broncos a 24-8 lead.

It should have been enough.

“It’s just hard to get your head around what actually happened.

It’s very disappointing,” Brisbane coach Kevin Walters said.

Somehow the Broncos went from a commanding lead with Ezra Mam’s name on the Clive Churchill Medal to a brutal

Moses Leota had a stunning game in the Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

collapse that will sting for a long time to come. Probably forever.

Nobody could have seen Penrith’s comeback on the horizon.

Not when inspirational co-captain Isaah Yeo was forced from the field for a Head Injury Assessment and Jarome Luai’s shoulder finally gave way in the midst of Mam’s hat-trick. Scott Sorensen, too, was forced from the field after a head knock.

The momentum just shouldn’t have turned, and yet it did.

“I must say I was a little worried half-way through that second half,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said post-match.

CLEARY BECAME A LEGEND “One thing I’d never doubt is these boys’ ability to keep fighting. There was still a long time to go and that was the important part. If they had have jumped to 24-8 with 15 to go I don’t think we would have come back.”

It had been a pulsating opening half to the Grand Final but nobody could have imagined what would unfold in the second 40 minutes.

Brisbane had talked up their big game experience all week despite it coming from other arenas like Origin, but nerves were evident in the opening period. They put themselves under pressure with a raft of errors, but Penrith struggled to capitalise.

The opening try came in the 17th minute when a short dropout somehow bounced into the hands of Mitch Kenny who scored his first try of the season.

With Cleary getting attention in back play for an injury that would later rule him out of the post-season internationals, Stephen Crichton grabbed the conversion to give Penrith a 6-0 advantage.

It became 8-0 in the 29th minute when Cleary resumed the kicking duties and potted a penalty goal, but Brisbane started to get into the game more in the period closing in on half-time.

When Thomas Flegler barged his way over in the 38th minute, it felt like a reward for Brisbane’s entire season more than anything else – they had toiled and toiled, and finally got what they needed.

Ivan Cleary admitted post-game, the 8-0 lead should have been bigger.

“The first half, I reckon the way the season has been going... we probably would have been up by more than 8-0,” he said.

“But they just weren’t going away. When they got the ball back they were striking, they really backed themselves from all over the field and were a constant threat which took a lot of gas out of our team.

“We knew we had a battle at half-time. I don’t really know what to say after that.”

In the end it was the 29th minute penalty goal that proved the difference. Both teams scored four tries, and landed four conversions.

Dig deeper though and it is likely Penrith’s 97 per cent completion rate – freakish in any game, let alone a Grand Final – that ensured they were still within a chance of winning and sending the more than 81,000 fans at Accor Stadium into a state of disbelief.

Brisbane made 11 errors to Penrith’s one, likely having a impact on their fatigue late in the game.

For Penrith, the victory ensured their place in rugby league folklore – a third straight Premiership,

Nathan Cleary celebrates his try. Photo: NRL Images.

the first team in the NRL era to achieve such a feat.

Meanwhile, for the Broncos it’s a long off-season of pondering what could have been.

And for both clubs, a new rivalry – one that in the past has barely caused a ripple – has been born.

While Penrith and Brisbane have met in big contests before, including Finals matches, this Grand Final will provide the cata-

lyst for hugely hyped contests for years and years to come.

But nothing can take away the result on Grand Final day.

Penrith 26 (Tries: Mitch Kenny, Moses Leota, Stephen Crichton, Nathan Cleary. Goals: Nathan Cleary 4/4, Stephen Crichton 1/1) def Brisbane 24 (Tries: Ezra Mam 3, Thomas Flegler. Goals: Adam Reynolds 4/4). Crowd: 81,947.

2023: the aftermath

A PARTY FOR THE AGES AS PANTHERS

T

he aftermath of the 2023 NRL Grand Final included emotional scenes at Accor Stadium, as well as a fan day on the Monday. NRL Images captured the celebrations...

Party mode: Mitch Kenny.

The greatest: Nathan Cleary.

Cleary and Alexander.

Players embrace the fans at BlueBet Stadium on Monday, October 2.

Incredible scenes in the dressing room post-game.

Brothers in arms: Players celebrate the big win.

James Fisher-Harris.

Jack Cogger.

Jarome Luai.

CELEBRATE HISTORY

Fans celebrate.

Stephen Crichton.

Plenty of Panther Pride.

Sunia Turuva and Mick Fanning.

Brian To’o, Spencer Leniu, Jarome Luai and Stephen Crichton.

Undisputed: Penrith coach Ivan Cleary.

The Cleary family are interviewed on Channel 9 after the game.

Fans at BlueBet Stadium for the fan day.

Up The Pahs: Moses Leota.

2023: what they said

WORDS OF WISDOM AFTER DECIDER

W

e’ve collected some of the best post-match comments from those involved with the NRL Grand Final between Penrith and Brisbane. Here’s what the key people said:

“That was an incredible game, what a contest, one of the best Grand Finals. I’ve never seen such a comeback. Well done Penrith Panthers.

Never give up, that’s what it takes.”

Jimmy Barnes

“It was dire straits out there. It was ‘The Ezra Mam Show’ for a period in that second half… but we’re just never out of the fight. Just such a tough group here, we’re just never out of it.”

Isaah Yeo

“It’s just hard to get your head around what actually happened.”

Kevin Walters

“We had our moments, we were good in patches… but we just didn’t find a way in the end to get it done.”

Adam Reynolds

“We just had to keep believing… keep believing in each other. We know our process. I thought if we could just jag one [try] and then we’d be back in the fight.

It turned out that’s what happened.”

“It means a lot. It’s my last year here and to win a game like that for my last game, words can’t describe the feelings I’m feeling right now.”

Spencer Leniu

Dylan Edwards

“This is the best thing ever… Nathan Cleary is the greatest athlete on Earth. Seriously… he’s the greatest athlete on Earth!”

Mick Fanning

“Stop the fight. End the debate.

After all the talk about where Nathan Cleary stood in the pecking order of elite halves, 20 minutes at Accor Stadium sealed his greatness.”

Brent Read

“I actually said to him (Nathan Cleary) yesterday if I married someone else, he would’ve been a pretty shit player. I’ve got to thank his Mum for everything that he’s got because it’s certainly not from me. I’m so proud of him.”

Ivan Cleary on ‘Today’ “It honestly doesn’t feel real right now. I can’t wait for it to set in. To the Broncos boys… that was the hardest game I’ve ever played. To our boys… it’s nothing but love. We’ve worked so hard for this and we’re still just getting started.”

Nathan Cleary

“He’s a future Immortal. In a short career he’s done effectively what everyone else has done in their whole careers.”

Brett Kimmorley on Nathan Cleary

“All of our hard work throughout the year, always training us for the big moments and we knew that we were three tries down and we knew that we just had to dig deep. We knew that it was there. We just had to give ourselves the chance.”

Stephen Crichton

“Nathan Cleary says he wants to be the greatest, and he has produced one of the greatest performances we’ve ever seen.

Don’t anyone ever doubt Nathan Cleary again.”

Dan Ginnane on Triple M

“I can’t remember a greater second half performance in a Grand Final from a halfback like I’ve seen tonight. I was just mind blown.”

Jonathan Thurston

“I love this group of boys, we are never out!” Jarome Luai

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the clive churchill medal

CLEARY, EDWARDS ENTER HISTORY

T

he three-peat was highlighted by outstanding individual performances, honoured with the prestigious Clive Churchill Medal.

2021: NATHAN CLEARY The most talked about shoulder in rugby league helped guide Penrith to its historic third title.

It may not go down in rugby league folklore like John Sattler’s broken jaw or Sam Burgess’ heroics but Nathan Cleary’s bravery was instrumental in Penrith winning the trophy.

There were fears he was gone for the season after suffering the injury in Origin II. Penrith’s Premiership hopes would have gone with it.

But surgeons developed a plan to allow Cleary to rehab the injury and manage it through the season – knowing it could all fall apart at any minute, with immediate surgery required.

He not only got through the

2022: DYLAN EDWARDS When he made the Scott Sattler-like cover tackle on speedy Eels centre Bailey Simonsson mid-way through the second half, the 80,000+ people watching on at Accor Stadium turned to each other

definitely worked hard for this, and we’ll enjoy it,” he said.

“To all our fans who have showed up all year, we love you guys. We just want to make our community proud out there and hopefully we did that. Last but not least, the families of all the squad members… you guys support us through thick and thin.

You ride the rollercoaster with

2022: Dylan Edwards secures the medal. Photo: NRL Images.

us, especially my partner Nadine.

I’m so lucky to have you in my corner and I’ll be forever grateful.”

2023: NATHAN CLEARY A stunning final 20 minutes not only secured Penrith its fifth Premiership, but allowed Nathan Cleary to enter a rare class of dual Clive Churchill Medal winners.

The 25-year-old grabbed the Grand Final by both hands in its dramatic climax, scoring the winning try and setting up another in a frantic finish to the game.

He finished with a try, four goals, two line breaks, a try assist, a 40/20 and four tackle breaks. It was simply stunning.

“It honestly doesn’t feel real right now,” Cleary said after being presented the award by NRL legend Cliff Lyons.

“It was the hardest game I’ve ever played. We’ve worked so hard for this, and we’re still just getting started so let’s go!”

2021: Nathan Cleary wins it for Penrith. Photo: NRL Images.

season, but delivered a standout performance in the Grand Final that saw him win the Clive Churchill Medal.

“It feels like a dream,” Cleary said.

“We’ve been working so long to get to this moment. I’ve been dreaming of this moment my whole life and it’s finally here. For everyone back in Penrith, that’s for you guys.”

and said, ‘yep, Dyl’s just won the Clive’ Upon accepting the award from Clive Churchill’s son Rod post-game, Edwards was his usual, humble and down to earth self – thanking sponsors before heaping a whole lot of praise on his teammates, supporters and family.

“Boys, firstly I’d like to thank you guys… I love all you boys, we

2023: Nathan Cleary gets his second. Photo: NRL Images.

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the journo’s view

FRONT ROW SEAT TO A PIECE OF FOOTY HISTORY NATHAN TAYLOR

B

eing a rugby league journalist during Penrith’s three-peat era has been nothing but a dream.

Getting to tell the stories of your favourite players and covering the moments that matter is why you get into a career like this.

I’ve been reporting on the Panthers for over a decade.

It might be cliché to say this, but I’ve well and truly seen it all.

I believe you’ve got to go through the tough times before you reap the rewards later and that couldn’t be more evident than when talking about this great club.

It would come as no surprise to learn that I’m a supporter of the Panthers. I’ve been a season ticket holder for more than 10 years and much prefer to sit down on those classic red seats at BlueBet Stadium over the soft and cushy ones inside t h e media b o x behind me.

I could be wrong, but I believe being a fan of the team you cover can have its advantages, especially when it comes to getting to know the players and the various

Speaking to Stephen Crichton in the lead-up to the 2023 decider.

A chat with Mitch Kenny about his rise to the top at Penrith.

people that make the club tick.

Because you’re a fan, you know a lot about the team already and the players can often pick up on that during interviews and that certainly helps when trying to build relationships.

Covering Penrith’s three-peat as a member of the media has been fun, exciting and most of all a privilege.

When the team you cover is winning and winning a lot (like those Panthers), the stories you get are far better because the players and coaches are relaxed, happy and are more likely to ‘open up’ to you as they’re in a good, positive headspace.

I remember the 2 0 2 1 season – the first year of the coveted three-peat – being particuBrian To’o, and that haircut, speaking in the lead-up to the 2022 Grand Final. larly unique.

While the first half of the season was relatively normal, the second half certainly wasn’t.

Midway through the year, the Panthers and the rest of the NRL were relocated to Queensland due to the pandemic wreaking havoc down south.

I remember having to do weekly Zoom interviews with the players right up until the Grand Final.

It was rather unusual covering Penrith’s first Premiership victory in 18 years from my dining room in Thornton, but those were the times.

Fortunately, 12 months later, life was semi back to normal, and Penrith would reach the NRL Grand Final for a third straight year.

On this occasion, the media had excellent access to the players right throughout the season, however I do remember having to do a rapid antigen test before speaking with them face-to-face during the week of the Grand Final against Parramatta, just to be safe.

In 2023, Penrith were back in the Finals yet again, chasing an elusive three-peat.

Throughout the entire threepeat campaign, I’ve never seen the players more relaxed and up for a chat than during Grand Final Week.

No matter how many interviews they did or how many pictures they posed for, they gave each and every member of the media their full, undivided attention.

You could say that comes down to experience, and for me the experience of getting to cover this history-making team’s journey over the last three years has been the highlight of my career. It’s almost impossible to surpass.

premiership honour roll

1999

2002

1997

2022 1989

year

winner

score

runner up

score

1908

Souths

14

1909

Souths

Easts

12

1910

Newtown

4

Souths

1911

Easts

11

Glebe

attendance

minor premiers

wooden spoon

4000

Souths

Cumberland

Forfeit

Souths

Wests

4

14,000

Newtown

Wests

8

20,000

Glebe

Balmain Wests

Balmain

1912

Easts

Glebe

No Final

Easts

1913

Easts

Newtown

No Final

Easts

Wests

1914

Souths

Newtown

No Final

Souths

Annandale

No Final

Balmain

Norths

7,000

Balmain

Wests

Balmain

Norths Annandale

1915

Balmain

1916

Balmain

Souths

1917

Balmain

Souths

No Final

1918

Souths

Wests

No Final

Souths

1919

Balmain

Easts

No Final

Balmain

Norths

1920

Balmain

Souths

No Final

Balmain

Annandale University

5

Souths

3

1921

Norths

No Final

Norths

1922

Norths

35

Glebe Glebe

3

15,000

Norths

St George

1923

Easts

15

Souths

12

12,180

Easts

University

1924

Balmain

3

Souths

0

1925

Souths

1926

Souths

11

University

1927

Souths

20

St George

1928

Souths

26

1929

Souths

30

1930

Wests

27

St George

1931

Souths

12

Easts

1932

Souths

19

1933

Newtown

1934

Wests

15,000

Balmain

Newtown

No Final

Souths

Newtown

5

21,000

Souths

St George

11

12,000

Souths

University

Easts

5

24,966

St George

Newtown

Newtown

10

16,360

Souths

University

2

12,178

Wests

University

7

27,104

Easts

University

Wests

12

16,925

Souths

Norths

18

St George

5

18,080

Newtown

Wests

15

Easts

12

25,174

Easts

University

Wests

1935

Easts

19

Souths

3

22,106

Easts

University

1936

Easts

32

Balmain

12

14,395

Easts

University University

1937

Easts

No Final

Easts

1938

Canterbury

19

Souths / St George Easts

6

20,287

Canterbury

St George

1939

Balmain

33

Souths

4

26,972

Balmain

Newtown

1940

Easts

24

Canterbury

14

24,167

Easts

Wests

1941

St George

31

Easts

14

39,957

Easts

Norths

1942

Canterbury

11

St George

9

26,171

Canterbury

Wests

1943

Newtown

34

Norths

7

60,992

Newtown

Canterbury

1944

Balmain

12

Newtown

8

24,186

Newtown

Canterbury

1945

Easts

22

Balmain

18

44,585

Easts

Souths

1946

Balmain

13

St George

12

32,296

St George

Souths

1947

Balmain

13

Canterbury

9

29,292

Canterbury

Parramatta Norths

1948

Wests

8

Balmain

5

29,122

Wests

1949

St George

19

Souths

12

56,534

Souths

Easts

1950

Souths

21

Wests

15

32,373

Souths

Norths

1951

Souths

42

Manly

14

28,505

Souths

Norths

1952

Wests

22

Souths

12

41,060

Wests

Parramatta

1953

Souths

31

St George

12

44,581

Souths

Wests

1954

Souths

23

Newtown

15

45,759

Newtown

Parramatta

1955

Souths

12

Newtown

11

42,466

Newtown

Wests

1956

St George

18

Balmain

12

61,987

St George

Parramatta

1957

St George

31

Manly

9

54,399

St George

Parramatta

1958

St George

20

Wests

9

62,283

St George

Parramatta

1959

St George

20

Manly

0

49,457

St George

Parramatta

1960

St George

31

Easts

6

53,156

St George

Parramatta

1961

St George

22

Wests

0

61,196

Wests

Parramatta

1962

St George

9

Wests

6

44,184

St George

Souths

1963

St George

8

Wests

3

69,860

St George

Easts

1964

St George

11

Balmain

6

61,369

St George

Canterbury

1965

St George

12

Souths

8

78,056

St George

Easts

1966

St George

23

Balmain

4

61,129

St George

Easts

* Super League Grand Final #Melbourne Storm were stripped of 2007, 2009 premierships, 2006, 2007 and 2008

year

winner

score

runner up

score

attendance

minor premiers

wooden spoon

1967

Souths

12

Canterbury

10

56,368

St George

Cronulla

1968

Souths

13

Manly

9

54,255

Souths

Newtown

1969

Balmain

11

Souths

2

58,825

Souths

Cronulla

1970

Souths

23

Manly

12

53,241

Souths

Parramatta

1971

Souths

16

St George

10

62,828

Manly

Wests

1972

Manly

19

Easts

14

54,357

Manly

Parramatta

1973

Manly

10

Cronulla

7

52,044

Manly

Penrith

1974

Easts

19

Canterbury

4

57,214

Easts

Balmain

1975

Easts

38

St George

0

63,047

Easts

Souths

1976

Manly

13

Parramatta

10

57,343

Manly

Newtown

Parramatta

Newtown

Wests

Newtown

1977

St George

9

Parramatta

9

65,959

1977+

St George

22

Parramatta

0

48,828

1978

Manly

11

Cronulla

11

51,510

1978+

Manly

16

Cronulla

0

33,552

1979

St George

17

Canterbury

13

50,991

St George

Norths

1980

Canterbury

18

Easts

4

52,881

Easts

Penrith

1981

Parramatta

20

Newtown

11

57,333

Easts

Balmain

1982

Parramatta

21

Manly

8

52,186

Parramatta

Canberra

1983

Parramatta

18

Manly

6

40,285

Manly

Wests

1984

Canterbury

6

Parramatta

4

47,076

Canterbury

Wests

1985

Canterbury

7

St George

6

44,569

St George

Illawarra

1986

Parramatta

4

Canterbury

2

45,843

Parramatta

Illawarra

1987

Manly

18

Canberra

8

50,201

Manly

Wests

1988

Canterbury

24

Balmain

12

40,000

Cronulla

Wests

1989

Canberra

19

Balmain

14

40,500

Souths

Illawarra

1990

Canberra

18

Penrith

14

41,535

Canberra

Souths

1991

Penrith

19

Canberra

12

41,815

Penrith

Gold Coast

1992

Brisbane

28

St George

8

41,560

Brisbane

Gold Coast

1993

Brisbane

14

St George

6

42,329

Canterbury

Gold Coast

1994

Canberra

36

Canterbury

12

42,234

Canterbury

Balmain

1995

Bulldogs

17

Manly

4

41,127

Manly

North Queensland

1996

Manly

20

St George

8

40,985

Manly

South Queensland

1997

Newcastle

22

Manly

16

42,482

Manly

South Queensland

1997*

Brisbane

26

Cronulla

8

58,912

Brisbane

North Queensland

1998

Brisbane

38

Canterbury

12

40,857

Brisbane

Wests

1999

Melbourne

20

St George Illawarra

18

107,999

Cronulla

Wests

2000

Brisbane

14

Sydney Roosters

6

94,277

Brisbane

North Queensland

2001

Newcastle

30

Parramatta

24

90,414

Parramatta

Penrith

2002

Sydney Roosters

30

Warriors

8

80,130

Warriors

Canterbury

2003

Penrith

18

Sydney Roosters

6

81,166

Penrith

Souths

2004

Canterbury

16

Sydney Roosters

13

82,127

Sydney Roosters

Souths

2005

Wests Tigers

30

North Queensland

16

82,453

Parramatta

Newcastle

2006

Brisbane

15

Melbourne

8

79,609

Melbourne#

Souths

2007

Melbourne

34

Manly

8

81,392

Melbourne#

Penrith

2008

Manly

40

Melbourne

0

80,388

Melbourne#

Canterbury

2009

Melbourne

23

Parramatta

16

82,538

St George Illawarra

Roosters

2010

St George Illawarra

32

Sydney Roosters

8

82,334

St George Illawarra

Melbourne

#

#

2011

Manly

24

Warriors

10

81,988

Melbourne

Gold Coast

2012

Melbourne

14

Canterbury

4

82,976

Canterbury

Parramatta

2013

Sydney Roosters

26

Manly

18

81,491

Sydney Roosters

Parramatta

2014

Souths

30

Canterbury

6

83,833

Sydney Roosters

Sharks

2015

North Queensland

17

Brisbane

16

82,758

Sydney Roosters

Newcastle Newcastle

2016

Cronulla

14

Melbourne

12

83,625

Melbourne

2017

Melbourne

34

North Queensland

6

79,722

Melbourne

Newcastle

2018

Sydney Roosters

21

Melbourne

6

82,688

Sydney Roosters

Parramatta Gold Coast

2019

Sydney Roosters

14

Canberra

8

82,922

Melbourne

2020

Melbourne

26

Penrith

20

37,303

Penrith

Brisbane

2021

Penrith

14

Souths

12

39,322

Melbourne

Canterbury

2022

Penrith

28

Parramatta

12

82,415

Penrith

Wests Tigers

2023

Penrith

26

Brisbane

24

81,947

Penrith

Wests Tigers

minor premierships, due salary cap breaches. + Grand Final replays.

2016

1992

1988

1998

1986

2021

autographs

PANTHERETTES

Atmosphere Fitness’s sponsorship of the Penrith Pantherettes is not just a sponsorship, it’s a legacy that spans back to the 1980s, rooted in the family history of local businesses. “We take immense pride in being part of and supporting the Penrith Panthers NRL team. As Western Sydney natives, Penrith is our home, and its tight-knit community spirit resonates deeply with me”. Despite occasional stereotypes, I firmly believe Penrith is a fantastic place to live.

I am proud to not only call it home but also run my businesses here.

Our sponsorship reflects our enduring commitment to this vibrant, underestimated gem of a town”. “We have thoroughly enjoyed our year with the Penrith Pantherettes. These remarkable ladies display unwavering dedication, seamlessly juggling their full-time work commitments and personal lives while consistently delivering flawless performances.”

– Kristelle owner Atmosphere Fitness

Atmosphere Fitness, Penrith’s premier fitness destination, offers an unparalleled gym experience. With two convenient locations in Penrith, our commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect. Dive into our 50 metre pool or enjoy one of our 200+ diverse classes, including Invigorating Yoga, Pilates and Pilates Reformer sessions. Our on-site café fuels your energy while our crèche ensures your peace of mind during workouts. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, our experienced personal trainers and team are ready to guide you. Plus, with an on-site Atmosphere Fitness nutritionist, achieving your fitness goals becomes a reality. At Atmosphere Fitness we’re dedicated to your well-being and success.

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