Penrith Panthers are defying reality of rugby league in ways no other team in recent times has done, be it Craig Bellamy’s Storm or Trent Robinson’s Roosters; Tim Sheens’ Broncos; Wayne Bennet Raiders etc – has ever done. Although they love winning just as much as anyone, Penrith Panthers also delight in making opponents lose.
The club offers multiple dining and entertainment options with 11 restaurants, 6 bars, 12 meeting, event, and function rooms and the Evan Theatre offering live music performances or Doms Cocktail Lounge and Bar offering ladies nights. Additionally there is the Sports Bar as well as Timezone featuring arcade games suited to everyone.
Panthers Kids Club for 2019 was also launched to introduce young children to rugby league, offering fun activities and games with special guest appearances by some Panthers players. Furthermore, it aims to foster positive relationships within the community.
Penrith has developed an impressive squad in recent years that can seriously challenge for a premiership. They boast an experienced mix of players along with youth that makes for fast and exciting play that makes it hard for opponents to defend against them. Their attacking play has had an enormous impact this season as well, winning numerous games.
Their record this season is impressive with 21 wins and 5 losses – placing them within the top ten of the NRL table. Their roster features experienced players such as Royce Simmons, Nathan Cleary and James Tamou as well as an exceptional support staff led by Paul Green and Nigel Plum.
As they finished seventh on the NRL Premiership ladder and qualified for finals series. After defeating Manly in week one of playoffs series, however, they eventually succumbed to Brisbane and were knocked out of competition.
Losing in 2020 grand final to Melbourne served as a wake-up call for the Panthers and they are expected to rebound strongly this season. Even without star players like James Tamou (captain and front row stalwart), they still possess enough quality players in their side to compete for the title. Defensive improvements must also be implemented along with learning from mistakes in order to mount an attack; Tamou’s absence will certainly be felt; however his forward pack gained valuable big game experience last season will make up for it and will prove difficult opponents if they get it together this season. The Panthers could prove formidable once they get it together this season – just watch!