LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Brisbane Broncos have successfully ended the Penrith Panthers' impressive streak of four consecutive premiership titles and five straight NRL Grand Final appearances with a dominant second-half performance in the 2025 NRL Finals.
After more than 700 days since their defeat in the 2023 NRL Grand Final, the Broncos executed a stunning comeback in the second half, bouncing back from a scoreless first half.
Initially trailing by 14 points, the Broncos saw efforts from centre Kotoni Staggs and forward Xavier Willison narrow the gap. In the final five minutes, winger Deine Mariner scored a try that equaled the score, creating a thrilling climax.
With the game on the line, Adam Reynolds stepped up to take the crucial kick and successfully converted, a moment significant for him as it contrasted sharply with a similar situation in 2021, which had marked the beginning of the Panthers' dynasty.
Reynolds' composure helped the Broncos in a pivotal moment, alongside standout performances from fullback Reece Walsh and front-rower Payne Haas, who contributed significantly with 165 metres and 39 tackles.
As the Broncos prepare for the 2025 NRL Grand Final against the Melbourne Storm, they await news on Willison, who faced a charge for dangerous contact. However, they will be bolstered by the return of Patrick Carrigan, and while outside back Sewlyn Cobbo is available, he may not be chosen for the final team.
The Panthers aimed for an unprecedented fifth consecutive premiership and made their intentions clear early in the match. Winger Paul Alamoti contributed to the scoring frenzy with a spectacular dive into the right-hand corner for the first try in the 10th minute, and he added another before halftime, showing their offensive strength.