LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
The Brisbane Broncos put up a valiant fight in their Grand Final match against Penrith but unfortunately fell short with a 26-24 loss.
Despite a halftime deficit of 8-6, the Broncos started the second half with a bang as Ezra Mam, their dynamic five-eighth, scored three tries in just 10 minutes, completely changing the game.
However, their efforts were not enough to hold off the fast-finishing Panthers.
Jesse Arthars and Herbie Farnworth stood out in the Broncos' backline with their strong carries and tackle breaks.
Meanwhile, Payne Haas, Pat Carrigan, and Thomas Flegler, the hardworking middle forwards, carried the team's pack throughout the entire match.
Although the Broncos absorbed some early pressure from the Panthers' pack, it was a 40-20 kick by Brisbane hooker Billy Walters in the sixth minute that gave the team some momentum.
However, crucial errors made by the Broncos while trying to advance from their own end of the field gifted the Panthers with field position for the next 10 minutes.
Despite defending well, the Broncos eventually cracked when a ball was knocked back by a Bronco hand from a goal line drop out, allowing Mitch Kenny of the Panthers to score.
It was a heartbreak for the Broncos and their fans, who were hoping for a drought-breaking Grand Final victory.
With a strong performance from the Panthers and the Broncos falling just short, it was a thrilling match that kept the 81,947 fans at Accor Stadium on the edge of their seats.