LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
The Penrith Panthers website is buzzing with excitement as they gear up for a showdown against the Bulldogs in what is expected to be a thrilling contest.
A couple of Bulldogs stars are gearing up to make their return to the Panther's den for the first time, while the Panthers are looking forward to having Nathan Cleary back on the field for Friday night's clash.
Cleary, who missed last week's victory over the South Sydney Rabbitohs as a precaution, is set to make a comeback after recovering from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for three games earlier in the season.
Despite his absence, the Panthers showed their strength by convincingly defeating Souths and are now aiming to extend their winning streak to three weeks.
The defending premiers will face off against a familiar lineup of ex-Panthers players at BlueBet Stadium on Friday, with Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton and forward Viliame Kikau poised to give it their all in their first game against their former club.
Matt Burton and Jaeman Salmon will also be making their return to face their old team in what promises to be a fiercely competitive battle on the field.