LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary addressed the team's concerning trend of poor defensive displays, especially evident in their fifth-straight defeat against the Dolphins, where they conceded 30 points.
Cleary admitted that their defense was not up to standard, affecting the team's overall performance.
He highlighted the stark difference in their defensive record compared to last season, emphasizing the need to address this issue promptly.
Despite losing key players after each premiership year, Cleary believed there were enough experienced players in the squad to improve their defense.
"We've got to get to work and make sure we improve it, because if we don't then the same things will keep happening," Cleary expressed.
He acknowledged the pressure that conceding 30 points weekly placed on the team's overall performance, particularly in attack, as seen by their disjointed and clunky display against the Dolphins.
Cleary's decision to give Blaize Talagi his first start since joining from Parramatta was questioned after a lackluster performance, raising doubts about his ability to fill in for Luai at five-eighth.
"It's pretty obvious that the defense is not up to standard and that's actually having a big effect on the rest of the game," Cleary stated, addressing the glaring issue plaguing the Panthers.
The coach remained confident in the team's ability to improve their defense but stressed the urgency of the situation.
Despite the challenges posed by personnel changes and chemistry adjustments, Cleary believed that the team had the necessary experience to overcome their defensive struggles.
The feedback from league legends Andrew Johns and Billy Slater echoed the sentiment that Penrith's performance against the Dolphins was subpar, indicating a need for significant improvement in both defense and attack moving forward.