Extra Time June 18 2021

MASKED PANTHER Questions raised about form of key forward

PAGE 32

KURT CAPEWELL POSTER Add to your collection of pin-ups with this beauty of our QLD Origin representative

PAGES 36-37 JOEL CAINE

Don’t miss the latest column from former goalkicking whiz

PAGE 38

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS Not sure who to back this weekend? See who our local celebrities are getting behind

PAGES 40-41

BIG GUNS RETURN CLEARY AND CO. READY TO GET PANTHER TRAIN BACK ON TRACK MATCH PREVIEW: PAGE 31

P

Friday, June 18, 2021 « the western weekender • extra time

EW

UBURN M T A EG A

M

A

L L

R

IM

ES

EOFY

SALE

ON NOW

SUN 27/6

E IZ PR

T

TA INS

P R IZ E TA INS

NT

pwam.com.au

RI

IN

PR

ZE

*First 100 people only per day. See website for full T&Cs.

AN

NT

PRIZE ST

AN

T

www.pwam.com.au 30

WW45251

SAT 26/6

ST

AN T

Spend $200+ at Primewest Auburn Megamall for your chance to win instant prizes 11am–3pm on:

IN

IZE

UP TO $10K IN PRIZES*

PR

SPIN WIN

I N S TA N T

CATALOGUE OUT NOW IN TODAYS PAPER

the final word

v

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 18, 2021

match preview

Brought to you by

Origin star Liam Martin. Photo: NRL Photos.

TROY DODDS

P

enrith come into Friday night’s blockbuster against the Sydney Roosters at BlueBet Stadium on the back of back-to-back defeats for the first time since 2019, and having lost their position on top of the competition table.

This was always going to be a difficult period for the Panthers – the price of success – but the team is through the worst of the scheduling nightmare now and may just benefit from the reality check of slipping to second position.

The cavalry returns this Friday with all of Penrith’s Origin representatives named to take on the Roosters, including Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai who were so missed in the games against the Tigers and Cronulla. The return of Isaah Yeo will also be a significant one given the huge role he now plays in Penrith’s structure.

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 | 7.55PM | BLUEBET STADIUM | REFEREE: ASHLEY KLEIN Not helping the Panthers’ cause was that the last two weeks were on the road. The comfort of home, as well as the returning stars, will make this feel like the Penrith team we all know and love again.

It’s hard to know what to make of the Roosters. Trent Robinson’s side appeared to be cruising to victory when they opened up a 30-4 lead over the Gold Coast last Saturday, only to surrender that lead before a Sam Walker field goal got them home in the dying minutes. They’re the types of games that don’t really feel like wins even though you got the two competition points, and Robinson would be unhappy with the way his side so meekly gave up the commanding lead.

This is a Roosters side that can smash the Raiders 44-16, but a week earlier fall to Brisbane 34-16. Rarely has the inconsist-

ency leaked into a single match but that was certainly the case against the Titans. It’s understandable, however, given the huge disruption the Roosters have dealt with this year. Serious injuries and suspensions have forced Robinson into constant reshuffles, and without continuity, we’re simply not seeing the week-to-week dominance we expect from the Roosters.

The return of James Tedesco for this clash will be huge – fresh from the Blues’ victory over Queensland in Origin I, he’ll be the danger man against Penrith. His ability to pop up anywhere on the field, to create something from nothing and to be the ultimate finisher when there’s a line break or broken play result in him easily topping the list of most dangerous players.

Which is why the key to beating the Roosters is shutting them down early, not allow-

PANTHERS

CHANNEL 9 FOX LEAGUE ABC 702 2GB 873

ing for second phase play. This current Roosters side can be frustrated into errors when things don’t go their way, and if the Panthers can get on top early it’s hard to see the boys from Bondi fighting back.

In that same vein the Panthers need to ensure they find the discipline that helped them to the Minor Premiership in 2020 and during their incredible run of wins to start this campaign. Things have slackened in recent weeks, giving away too many penalties and set-restarts.

Get the discipline right and Penrith should have too much talent for the Roosters to contain, especially with so much to prove in the wake of consecutive losses.

Viliame Kikau will miss this clash due to a hamstring injury, while Tyrone May falls out of the top 17.

Tip: Panthers by 12.

ROOSTERS

1 Dylan Edwards

10 James Fisher-Harris

1 James Tedesco (c)

2 Charlie Staines

11 Liam Martin

2 Daniel Tupou

10 Siosiua Taukeiaho 11 Angus Crichton

3 Stephen Crichton

12 Kurt Capewell

3 Josh Morris

12 Sitili Tupouniua

4 Matt Burton

13 Isaah Yeo (c)

4 Joseph Manu

13 Isaac Liu

5 Brian To’o

14 Mitch Kenny

5 Matt Ikuvalu

14 Sam Verrills

6 Jarome Luai

15 Scott Sorensen

6 Lachlan Lam

15 Egan Butcher

7 Nathan Cleary (c)

16 Matthew Eisenhuth

7 Sam Walker

16 Daniel Suluka-Fifita

8 Moses Leota

17 Izack Tago

8 Jared Waerea-Hargreaves

17 Fletcher Baker

9 Apisai Koroisau

18 Spencer Leniu 19 J’Maine Hopgood

9 Adam Keighran

18 Tuku Hau Tapuha 19 Ben Thomas

31

Friday, June 18, 2021 « the western weekender • extra time

panther rumblings

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

CRITTER’S ORIGIN DREAM !

Panthers centre Stephen Crichton still harbours a dream of playing for the Blues. But Crichton has admitted if he’s ever going to get a taste of Origin in the near future, he’s going to have to take his game to another level. While the St Clair junior enjoyed a breakout season in 2020 – named Dally M Centre of the Year – he has struggled to reach the heights of last season largely due to spending several games at fullback in place of Dylan Edwards. “With those Origin boys not here, I’ve got to step up my game as well. I can’t be an average player on the field because that won’t get me anywhere,” Crichton said.

Stephen Crichton.

Photo: NRL Photos.

!

Penrith fans can scream the joint down all they like, Origin at the end of the season won’t happen. Nor will stopping the comp for anywhere from three to six weeks mid-year so the game’s showpiece can stand alone. Clubs will have to continue to manage the imperfect system of Origin impacting club football. The reality is the best teams usually go on to win the competition and managing the Origin period is simply part of the challenge. Channel Nine don’t want games played on Sundays, so you can forget Origin being played on three consecutive weekends. And an endof-season series opens up a host of new issues that can’t really be overcome. Suck it up and deal with the price of success.

!

Pictures of Tyrone May seem to be on dart boards right across the Penrith region and the 24-year-old was even dropped by coach Ivan Cleary for this weekend’s clash with the Roosters. Still, I’m told it’s highly likely May will sign a new deal with Penrith for the 2022 season.

Top Try Scorer market after closing within three of leader Josh Addo-Carr. Burton’s price has been cut from $34 into $15 after seven tries in four games, while Gutherson has tightened from $51 into $17 after being out to $101 at one stage.

! Spotted: Nathan Cleary having an emotional hug with his mother Bec after full-time at Origin I last Wednesday night.

!

The Panthers have drifted in TAB’s Premiership betting for the first time this season after the Storm took over top spot on the NRL ladder. Melbourne’s odds have shortened from $3.50 into $3.25 after their win over the Warriors and while Penrith remain title favourites, they have moved out slightly from $2.75 to $2.80 following a second straight loss during the State of Origin period. With 12 tries each, Panthers star Matt Burton and Eels Skipper Clint Gutherson have been the big movers in the

! Nathan Cleary has been named the best player in the game by his peers. A Players Poll published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Monday saw 33 per cent of NRL players say Cleary was the

game’s best, with Tom Trbojevic coming in second with 24 per cent, followed by James Tedesco on 18 per cent. Meantime, Ivan Cleary was named the second best coach by the players, with 26 per cent of the vote – four points behind Storm mentor Craig Bellamy.

! I’m told the form of Viliame Kikau is concerning a number of Penrith officials and members of the coaching staff. Kikau needs to take his game to another level now that opposition sides have started to work out how to contain the man mountain, but he’s failing to fire at present. Kikau is out injured this weekend but officials are said to be demanding improvement once he returns after the bye. Watch this space. ! The State Budget is due to be handed down by NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet on Tuesday. While Budgets are about as boring as watching Wests Tigers highlights videos, this one will be keenly observed

by Penrith fans – with a Panthers Stadium upgrade / re-build very much on the cards.

There’s a chance details of the announcement may leak early, so keep an eye out over the weekend.

! This is always a sad time of year around the Panthers, as we remember the passing of Ben Alexander. Alexander was just 20 when he was killed in a car accident at Colyton on June 21, 1992 – 29 years ago.

His death rocked the Penrith community and tore the Panthers apart. Our thoughts go out to the Alexander family during what’s a difficult time of year.

! Heard some gossip? Spotted a Panther out and about? I don’t keep secrets but I do protect my sources. Email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

OFFICIAL PARTNER

32

WW43481

YEO: TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED NATHAN TAYLOR

P

enrith have played some fairly big games this season, but perhaps none are more important than tonight’s clash against the Sydney Roosters at BlueBet Stadium.

Staring down the barrel of three straight defeats, Penrith will be desperate to return to form after two lacklustre weeks saw them lose their position at the top of the NRL’s perch.

With their Origin brigade finally back in the line-up, including lock Isaah Yeo, the playing group is confident of turning things around.

“We are fortunate we’ve banked some wins there at the start of the year, but we’re in a competition where winning is important and you don’t want to be continuously losing,” Yeo said on Wednesday.

“After back to back losses we’re coming up against a really strong outfit in the Roosters and you don’t want to make that three [losses] in a row.

“It all starts with our preparation at the beginning of the week and it’s something we’ve done well. We are fortunate enough that we’ve banked a few wins, but you don’t want to lose in this competition.”

Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo speaking to Nathan Taylor. Photo: Melinda Jane.

The club’s latest defeat – just their second all year – came last Friday night against Cronulla at Kogarah Oval. Down 18-0 at half-time, Penrith produced a spirited

comeback to level proceedings before outgoing Sharks halfback Shaun Johnson got his side home with a miraculous field goal in the dying stages.

Yeo, who was rested after playing a tough Origin match in Townsville 48 hours earlier, said it was tough watching from the sidelines.

“I’m a pretty quiet watcher actually… I don’t talk throughout the game, I keep that pretty well inside me,” he admitted.

“It was disappointing to lose. I thought it was definitely a game of two halves. I thought we fixed everything we needed to from the first half, but it was too little too late.”

Penrith’s match against the Roosters tonight is expected to be a sell-out, with thousands of fans hoping a near-full strength line-up will get the ‘good guys’ home.

Yeo said the side can’t rest on its laurels, even though it will be significantly boosted by the return of some big-name players.

“You can’t take any team for granted… you’d like to think with those players coming back in it will help a little bit, but you can’t take that for granted,” he said.

“You still have to work hard and do all those little things right to set up games. The Roosters are a quality side across the park… they’ll be looking to come out here and make us lose three in a row.

“We’ve prepared really well this week and we understand we’re up for a big match, it should be a cracker.”

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 18, 2021

feature

Keen Air Solutions Lic. No. AU43786

WINTER SALE!

WHILE STOCKS LAST!

Toshiba 3.5kW Inverter split system supplied and installed

$

1595

Toshiba 5kW Inverter split system supplied and installed

$1895 Toshiba 7.1kW Inverter split system supplied and installed WW44829

$2395 FREE QUOTE

TOSHIBA 7 YEARS MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY

8002 1822 sales@keenair.com.au While stocks last. This pricing is including GST. Prices are based on a back-to-back installation.

Site inspection required to ensure power supply adequate. Outdoor units can be installed on a bracket included in costings if required. Three years installation warranty.

WW43972

33

Friday, June 18, 2021 « the western weekender • extra time

Why Melbourne are the biggest threat to Penrith’s premiership dream

Brought to you by

matt russell A

ttack is only half of the game, but when it’s Melbourne’s attack it’s a pretty darn good half.

I had the privilege of calling Melbourne against the Warriors last Sunday, from a commentary box right beside coach Craig Bellamy’s coaching seat. We were separated by a piece of glass.

Glancing from play to coach, seeing attack and reaction, provided a pretty good gauge that this wasn’t Melbourne’s best effort. Still they won the game 42-16. It took them past Penrith to top of the table The modern game is all about possession, momentum, execution and relentlessness. Melbourne play like those words fall out of the cereal box at every breakfast.

As Melbourne found their rhythm against the Warriors, Nathan from the Fox Sports Lab was repeatedly in my ear.

“Matty, that’s the most points any team has scored through 14 rounds in the NRL era,” he advised.

“The Storm are now only the third team since 1908 to have a differential of plus 300 through this many games,” he added, before it was pegged back by a final Ken Maumalo try for the Warriors.

Josh Addo-Carr scores a try for Melbourne last weekend. Photo: NRL Photos.

“Melbourne has scored 40 points for the eighth time his season. The record is nine – Eels in ’01 , Broncos in ’98.”

At this rate, the Storm are going to blow those Parramatta and Brisbane teams out of the water.

Obviously, the way the game has changed helps, but Melbourne have to execute that. They’ve done so while handing NRL debuts to Dean Ieremia, Trent Loiero and Tyson Smoothy. They’ve used relative newcomers in Cooper Johns, Aaron Booth, Chris Lewis, Aaron Pene, Isaac Lumelume and Darryn Schonig. They’ve handled the significant absence of Dale Finucane, Harry Grant and Ryan Papenhuyzen. They’re without a bloke called Cameron Smith.

A big off-field team demands perfection – Frank Ponissi, Stephen Kearney, Marc Brentnall, Aaron Bellamy, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Ryan Hoffman… and the bloke on the other side of that glass window, riding every attacking movement like a conductor builds to the crescendo.

Michael Maguire and his Tigers are the next team charged with stopping this attack on Saturday night on the Sunshine Coast. Good luck Madge.

Please join us for our grand opening at Westfield Parramatta.

Experience one of the largest jewellery collections in Australia while meeting our VIP guests from 5.30pm – Shannon Noll, Erin Molan, Jazzy K, Parramatta Eels and Western Sydney Wanderers players.

Located next to David Jones on Level 3 at Westfield Parramatta.

34

WW45256

simoncurwood.com.au

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 18, 2021

feature

CLEARY STANDS BY DROPPED MATE P

anthers fans haven’t seen the last of Tyrone May in first grade – that’s according to his long-time friend and teammate Nathan Cleary.

The 24-year-old utility, who started in place of Cleary in Penrith’s two recent losses, was dropped to the extended bench for Friday night’s must-win clash against the Sydney Roosters at BlueBet Stadium.

It will mark the first time all season that May, a Minchinbury Jets junior, won’t feature in the NRL. Speaking with Extra Time on Wednesday, Cleary said his housemate is determined to regain his spot in the side after a less than desirable few weeks as starting half.

“T-May is doing alright, he’s one of those guys that will see this as an opportunity to get better,” he said.

“It’s always disappointing when you get dropped but I’ve got full faith that he’ll do really well in NSW Cup and try and work his way back in.”

The Samoan international will be replaced on the interchange bench by fellow local junior Izack Tago, who scored his first NRL try during last week’s nail-biting loss to the Sharks.

Cleary said the 19-year-old backrower deserved to be picked this week after his eye-catching performance against Cronulla.

“T-May not being there is probably more of a case of Izack Tago working his way into the side after a great performance on Friday,” he said.

“He’s a really exciting young talent and it’s good to see him get another start.”

Meanwhile, Cleary will play his first game since Penrith’s disappointing two-game losing streak started when he lines up against the fifth-placed Sydney Roosters this evening.

The 23-year-old NSW halfback, who suffered a nasty cut under his right eye during Origin I, was one of five Panthers players who didn’t back up from the battle in Townsville 48 hours earlier.

Cleary confirmed he’s a certain starter in tonight’s blockbuster game, even though he’ll still be sporting several stitches on his face.

“It’s absolutely fine, I have full vision and I usually forget about it until I look in the mirror,” he laughed.

“I couldn’t back up last week, I just think it was a bit of a worry because if I copped another knock, it would split again and who knows what would’ve happened.

“I think I’ll probably play the game with

the stitches in but it’s pretty healed over now, so I’m not too worried about it.”

Nathan Cleary will play in this weekend’s Beanies for Brain Cancer Round.

Win a custom made engagement ring, valued at up to $20,000* Don’t miss your chance to WIN the engagement ring of your dreams.

Competition closes 12 July 2021.

wi nm yr ing . c o m

*Terms and conditions apply. See winmyring.com for more details. TP/00780

WW45257

NATHAN TAYLOR

35

panthers poster

36

Friday, June 18, 2021 « the western weekender • extra time

atlanticcarremovals.com.au | E: info@atlanticcarremovals.com.au

Unit 4/160-166 Forrester Rd, St Marys | 0405 990 100

We buy all scrap, damaged and unwanted cars, vans, utes, 4x4 & small trucks.

OUR SERVICES: • Cash for unwanted vehicles • Free car removal Sydney wide • Same day service • Top dollar paid • Car recycling

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE!

Kurt Capewell

WW45217

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 18, 2021

37

Friday, June 18, 2021 « the western weekender • extra time

Brought to you by

How Brian To’o is silencing the doubters with his running game

joel caine

A

t the start of the season there wouldn’t have been many pundits selecting Penrith’s Brian To’o to start on the wing for New South Wales in Origin I. While he’s been dynamic at club level, there were considerable doubts about his size and ability to match it with what people thought was a traditional Origin winger – big, tall, overhead and powerful.

It’s even believed that Brad Fittler questioned his choice to select To’o in the big game because of his match up on Xavier Coates.

Earlier in the season the winger made three errors against the Broncos as they targeted him with high balls against Coates, but in typical To’o fashion, he more than made up for it on the ground, with 272 metres, 10 tackle busts and a line-break.

While his single game stat lines are impressive, looking at his numbers across the whole year absolutely stunned me, having him in the side literally guarantees you field position.

The Mt Druitt boy has run for more than three whole kilometres with ball in hand this season including Origin I – well clear of the next best.

While his overall distance covered is impressive enough, the fact that over a third of this ground made has come post-contact proves his true value at the highest level – the kid is a machine.

Turns out that machine still works equally well when making the step up to Origin, his 233 metres made, two try performance couldn’t have quietened the doubters more, but that’s something To’o’s becoming familiar with.

He was famously cut from Panthers’ Harold Matthews side at 15 due to his size, what an oversight that would have been if To’o was lost to the game from that decision.

To’o’s Forrest Gump like ability to just keep on running could even help deliver a Penrith premiership and the Blues an Origin victory in the upcoming months.

The running man has well and truly arrived, I’m predicting that it’s just the start for the 22-year-old Panther.

Brian To’o silenced the critics in Origin I. Photo: NRL Photos.

$OIUHVFR &DUSRUW 'HFN 3DWLR 3HUJROD 6XQURRP 7UXVW WKH H[SHUWV WR WUDQVIRUP \RXU KRPH 6\GQH\·V OHDGHU LQ KRPH LPSURYHPHQWV VLQFH

/ 2))(5

(2)< 63(&,$

35,&( ,167$//$7,2

1

&RQWDFW XV IRU D )UHH 0HDVXUH 4XRWH 38

ZZZ KLFUDIW FRP DX

%XLOGHUV /LFHQFH 1XPEHU

WW45264

6KRZURRP &QU *UHDW :HVWHUQ +Z\ 5XVVHOO 6W (PX 3ODLQV

4732 6007

CLUB

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

1

Storm

14

12

0

2

0

472

178

+294 24

2

Panthers

14

12

0

2

0

418

133

+285 24

3

Eels

14

11

0

3

0

400

224

+176 22

4

Rabbitohs

13

10

0

3

1

341

282

+59

5

Roosters

13

9

0

4

1

379

231

+148 20

6

Sea Eagles

13

7

0

6

1

315

282

+33

16

7

Cowboys

13

6

0

7

1

264

383

-119

14

8

Dragons

14

6

0

8

0

299

312

-13

12

9

Sharks

13

5

0

8

1

252

298

-46

12

10 Raiders

13

5

0

8

1

257

321

-64

12

11

13

5

0

8

1

281

347

-66

12

12 Titans

14

5

0

9

0

318

380

-62

10

13 W. Tigers

14

5

0

9

0

292

374

-82

10

Warriors

14 Knights 15 Broncos 16 Bulldogs

14 14 13

5 3 2

0 0 0

9 11 11

0 0 1

231 232 162

366 436 366

+/-

-135 -204 -204

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX

PTS

22

10

ROUND 15 V

Thursday, June 17 7.50pm Suncorp Stadium

V

Friday, June 18 6.00pm QLD Country Bank Stadium

V

Friday, June 18 7.55pm BlueBet Stadium

V

Saturday, June 19 3.00pm McDonald Jones Stadium

V

Saturday, June 19 5.30pm WIN Stadium

V

Saturday, June 19 7.35pm Sunshine Coast Stadium

V

Sunday, June 20 2.00pm Bankwest Stadium

V

Sunday, June 20 4.05pm Cbus Super Stadium

IS THIS YOU? ?

Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game? If it is, you’ve won a Hoyts Family Movie Pass to use at any Hoyts Cinema in Australia! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 2020-015

6 6

Face In Th e Crowd

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 18, 2021

nrl ladder & fixtures

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor, Peter Lang, Matt Russell, Joel Caine SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi / 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

!" # $ % & % ' $ ( $

# ) ' ' * +,- #

! "

WW45100

39

40

HANS BOR

GAI HAWTHORN

LEIGH HARTOG

ASHA DOOLEY

KEITH WILSON

NATHAN TAYLOR

the western

158

158

158

158

156

156

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

IRRESISTIBLE POOLS & SPAS 4776 1118

GRACE FUNERALS 4735 6900

JK WILLIAMS 4725 3400

PENRITH CBD CORPORATION 4722 5556

VISION PAINTING & DECORATING 0404 459 600

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS TITANS

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

KEIRAN MCGARITY

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

CHARBEL GEAGEA

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

DANIEL MCKINNON

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS WARRIORS

LUKE BELOTTI

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

KIM RILEY

weekender

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

MATT KEEN

158

TRESAMI COMPUTER ENGINEERING 1300 318 444

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

IAN GARTON

158

ROSS FOWLER & CO 4722 3066

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

KEN HALE

160

SYNERGY ACCOUNTING 4732 6555

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

ALEX MCKENZIE

170

CC TYRES 4731 4822

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

DANIEL GALEA

MICHAEL ASHTON SHANAKA DE SILVA LEE BANISTER

ROSS FOWLER

Friday, June 18, 2021 « the western weekender • extra time

celebrity tipsters

154

152

152

150

148

148

148

146

146

144

RAINE & HORNE COMMERCIAL PENRITH 0417 228 504

KELLY + PARTNERS 4721 7433

COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING 1300 COMLAW

MACQUARIE COMMERCIAL 0402 896 906

CATHOLIC CEMETARIES 9826 2273

KEEN AIR SOLUTIONS 02 8002 1822

MCDONALD’S GARTON GROUP 4721 2992

KEN HALE PLUMBING 0414 446 596

FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES 4704 8585

ADENBROOK HOMES GREATER SYDNEY AND WOLLONGONG 1300 086 272

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM BULLDOGS TITANS

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS TIGERS BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

142

142

140

140

138

138

HERTZ 4731 6344

PROPERTY CENTRAL 0434 400 225

LEISURE POOLS 1300 SPLASH

CARTERS TAX ADVISORY 4708 3088

PROPERTY CENTRAL 0410 338 040

ST MARYS PROFESSIONALS 02 9673 4422

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS TIGERS BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

NATHAN HOOKER

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

TASH GREENTREE

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

DOUGLAS ELY

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

DEE BARLOW

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS WARRIORS

JEFF LEMON

142

SUPREMACY FUNERALS 4721 2020

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

DERRY ANTHEA O’DONOVAN STRATHDEE

142

EMERSON’S ENVIROCARE 1800 600 760

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

NAT SINCLAIR

144

WALLACIA COUNTRY CLUB 4773 8417

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

BEN FORDHAM

144

THE WESTERN WEEKENDER 4722 2998

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

VICTOR GLANVILLE

TERRY HANSEN

LEE WATERHOUSE

BEN CARTER

COREY PHILLIPS

CAMERON FAICO

SIMONNE THOMPSON

DONNA HILDON

RICHARD EMERSON

SHANNON WOOD

TROY DODDS

the western

138

138

136

136

134

130

130

DRUMMOND GOLF PENRITH 4721 1296

CLUB PACEWAY 4721 2375

YORK JEWELLERS 4721 0780

COUNTRY BREWER NEPEAN 4731 5444

KHP CIVIL 0488 342 555

LOWER MOUNTAINS AIR CONDITIONING 4735 6411

EZRVEND 0414 254 074

FORMER PANTHERS CHEERLEADER

126

124

120

RADIO 2GB 131 873

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT 4732 2195

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS TIGERS BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS ROOSTERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

BRONCOS COWBOYS PANTHERS KNIGHTS

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS WARRIORS

RAIDERS TIGERS BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS ROOSTERS KNIGHTS

DRAGONS STORM EELS SEA EAGLES

RABBITOHS COWBOYS ROOSTERS KNIGHTS

RAIDERS STORM EELS TITANS

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 18, 2021

weekender

41

Friday, June 18, 2021 « the western weekender • extra time

So much more @ Saints WW45246

ACCOMODATION, MEETINGS, CONFERENCES & EVENTS

42

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 18, 2021

Bargain buys that could be on Penrith’s radar for 2022

lang on league down due to a serious pec injury, but this tough as nails Kiwi international would be a valuable pick-up.

Now, who would you like to see at Penrith next season?

What caught my eye last week...

How well all the players who backed up from State of Origin played. Everyone from DCE to our very own Liam Martin showed their class even though they played a super tough game only a few days before.

What game I’m looking forward to...

St George-Illawarra vs Canberra on Saturday.

Even though it’s only Round 15, Ricky Stuart’s Raiders may as well start preparing for season 2022 if they lose this one.

My tips for the week...

Rabbitohs, Sharks, Panthers, Knights, Raiders, Storm, Eels, Sea Eagles.

The final word...

After two unexpected losses in a row, Penrith may not regain top spot again this season. At the moment, and with a favourable draw, the Storm look like they have the number one spot locked up. Another loss by Penrith over the next two games against either the Roosters or Parramatta could see the Eels and Rabbitohs take second spot away from them. One thing in Penrith’s favour is they still have a bye and a guaranteed two points up their sleeve.

extra minutes !

Sydney Roosters captain Boyd Cordner has announced his immediate retirement from rugby league. Cordner represented the Kangaroos on 20 occasions, including two World Cup victories, New South Wales 16 times, including three series wins and his club the Roosters in 183 games. He was part of three Premiership-winning Roosters sides, twice as club captain. “This hasn’t been an easy decision for me to come to, but it’s the right one,” Cordner said. “I’ve had some time to reflect on my career and I hang up the boots a very proud man. I’m so lucky to have had the opportunities I’ve had over the years, and to do it all at a club like the Sydney Roosters means the world to me.” ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys paid special tribute to Cordner: “Boyd is a true leader. He captained his club, state and country to great success. He reached the absolute pinnacle of rugby league and leaves the game having done it all – Premierships, Origins and World Cups.”

! Canberra coach Ricky Stuart has been made a Member of the Order of Australia, receiving the honour as part of the Queen’s Birthday holiday on Monday.

Ricky has been bestowed the honour in recognition of his significant service to rugby league and the community.

the competition. The Australian Rugby League Commission approved the expansion which will see the new clubs join the Brisbane Broncos, St George-Illawarra Dragons and Sydney Roosters for NRLW 2021. NRLW will commence alongside Round 23 of the Telstra Premiership, with each team playing each other once and the top four teams playing in semifinals. The Grand Final will continue to be played on the same day as the NRL Grand Final. The number of games will increase from seven to 18 this season and the number of playing weeks will increase from four to seven.

Could Anthony Milford be an option at Penrith in 2022? Photo: NRL Photos.

KICKSTARTER ADV ERTISING PACKA

GE

ENQUIRE NOW AND RECEIVE A

FREE

12 MONTH MARKETING STRATEGY

!

NSW are hot favourites to reclaim the State of Origin shield with TAB cutting their price from $1.53 into $1.07 after claiming Game One of the series 50-6 in Townsville. The Blues have been installed $1.40 favourites for the second match on Sunday, June 27, while QLD are $2.90 in the early Headto-Head market and are now $8.50 to win the series. An $11,113 bet at $1.53 on NSW to win the series was taken before kick-off last Wednesday.

! The NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership (NRLW) will expand to six teams in 2021 with the objective of expanding to eight teams in 2022. In 2021 the NRLW will see the Gold Coast Titans, Newcastle Boyd Cordner calls it quits. Photo: NRL Photos.

Knights and Parramatta Eels join

Valued at $2500

To access this offer please quote the following code when you contact us: CODE: WWEEKENDER_2020

People are paying more attention to digital advertising than ever!

Combine outdoor advertising with online.

Tried and tested Retailer Advertising Strategies suitable for all business, all trades and industries.

CALL TODAY for a FREE Consultation and Quote

1300 155 669 | info@retailmediahub.com.au

WW43961

T

here’s no doubt that Penrith have some truly exciting juniors who will soon be ready for first grade.

However what the last two games showed, was that you sometimes need some experienced players who can step in and make a difference in key positions.

They don’t have to be ‘marquee’ level players or cost a fortune to make a difference either.

Knowing that any budget Panthers have will not be huge, I thought I’d pick a ‘wildcard’ and four other experienced ‘buys’ which could join the team next season.

1. Anthony Milford – ‘Are you mad?’ I hear you all say. He’s terrible, not worth the money or the risk but if you could pick him up for $300,000 or so, he could be the wildcard this team is looking for. Milford can play a variety of positions in the backline and in the right environment could really flourish. Penrith could very well provide the structure and stability Milford needs to find his feet again.

2. Phoenix Crossland – Crossland is a clever halfback who has shown plenty of promise with the Knights this season, filling in for the injured Mitchell Pearce.

3. Connor Watson – Which team couldn’t use a player like Watson? He is always looking to make things happen whenever he has the ball in his hands.

4. Curtis Sironen – A tough no-nonsense second-rower who has ball playing skills to boot.

5. Leeson Ah Mau – His value may have gone

with Peter Lang

43

WW44011