LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Andrew Johns, a legendary rugby league player and commentator, has declared Nathan Cleary's performance in the NRL grand final as the greatest by a halfback in a decider ever.
Despite a rocky start to the second half with two defensive errors, Cleary showcased his prowess as one of the greatest players of all time.
With just 15 minutes remaining in the game and the Broncos leading 24-8, Cleary orchestrated a remarkable comeback for the Panthers.
He set up tries for Moses Leota and Stephen Crichton, reducing the deficit to just four points.
In the 78th minute, Cleary scored a sensational solo try that shattered the Broncos' hopes and secured a 26-24 victory for the Panthers.
This historic comeback marked the biggest in NRL grand final history, surpassing the Melbourne Storm's 1999 decider against the Dragons.
Cleary's exceptional performance earned him his second Clive Churchill Medal and his third premiership.
Impressed by Cleary's display, both Johns and Johnathan Thurston, another rugby league great, showered him with praise.
Johns went as far as declaring it the greatest performance by a halfback in a grand final ever.
Cleary's achievement is even more remarkable considering that he now has more premierships than Johns and Thurston, two iconic halfbacks in the sport.
Cleary's masterclass in the grand final has solidified his status as one of the game's greats, leaving fans and experts in awe of his talent and skill.