LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Jarome Luai has once again proven himself as the key playmaker for the Panthers, guiding them to a hard-fought 26-18 win against the Knights on Sunday.
With his sights set on joining the Blues camp on Monday, Luai ensured his team secured another two precious points before the bye week, scoring a try and setting up two others at McDonald Jones Stadium.
The Knights supporters were roaring with excitement early on when rookie fullback Fletcher Sharpe made a dazzling run from the back, leaving Blues duo Jarome Luai and Dylan Edwards in his wake to score the opening try.
But the Panthers quickly responded, with fill-in five-eighth Brad Schneider's perfectly placed kick leading to a try by Scott Sorensen in the 13th minute.
Rookie centre Paul Alamoti added the extras to level the score at 6-6.
Just five minutes later, Luai and Schneider combined brilliantly to send Brian To'o over for a try in the left corner, giving the Panthers a 10-6 lead.
The first half turned into a fierce battle, with both teams exchanging sets before Luai showcased his dominance by scoring a try with a clever show-and-go move near the try line, extending the lead to 14-6 going into halftime.
Overall, it was a thrilling game where both teams fought tooth and nail, but it was Luai who ultimately stole the show with his exceptional performance, ensuring the Panthers took home a well-deserved victory.