LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Penrith Panthers suffered a setback in their Knock-On Effect NSW Cup finals hopes with a 26-14 loss to the Warriors at St Marys Leagues Stadium.
The game took place on a grey and drizzly Saturday afternoon, creating challenging conditions for both teams.
The match was not without its fair share of drama, as Warriors fullback Ben Farr had to be stretchered off in a neck brace, causing a lengthy hold-up in the second half.
Despite this setback, the Warriors managed to regroup and score three unanswered tries, putting the Panthers in danger of dropping out of the top 5.
The Panthers got off to a rough start, conceding a try in the opening minute when an attempted charge-down worked in favor of the Warriors, resulting in Kalani Going touching down in the corner to give the Warriors a 4-0 lead.
However, the Panthers fought back and started to regain control of the game.
Preston Riki made his return to the team and marked it with a simple try in the 20th minute, exploiting a gap in the defensive line.
Jack Cole successfully converted the try, giving the Panthers a 6-4 lead.
Jesse McLean also made a significant impact, extending the Panthers' lead to 10-4 in the 28th minute with a sensational solo effort, running 40 meters and leaving defenders in his wake.
The Warriors, determined to make a comeback, spent the final five minutes of the first half relentlessly attacking the Panthers' line.
They finally broke through as the halftime siren sounded, with Setu Tu diving over in the right-hand corner.
However, Ronald Volkman's conversion attempt was unsuccessful, allowing the Panthers to enter halftime with a narrow 10-8 lead.