Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary expressed his "proud" feelings towards his team's efforts despite a narrow 14-12 defeat against a determined Brisbane Broncos side on Thursday.
The reigning champions aimed to ignite their season and were strongly propelled by their outstanding fullback, Reece Walsh.
Although the Panthers faced their third loss in four matches, Cleary appreciated the quality of the matchup, noting the finals-like intensity the Broncos infused into Western Sydney.
"I was actually proud that we didn't panic and just hung in there and tried to wait for the turn," Cleary stated in his post-match press conference.
"Even the last play down there in the corner with two minutes to go, we should have got it, but it's just one of those nights.
"I felt really good about the chances. Scored a couple of good ones in the first half when we were down there but (it) just wasn't to be."
Walsh made a significant impact, steering the Broncos to victory with three try assists, three line-break assists, and a line break of his own.
As his captain, Adam Reynolds, battled cramps throughout the match, Walsh rose to the occasion, successfully converting a difficult kick from the sideline after assisting Josiah Karapani on the left edge with ten minutes remaining.
Cleary was left amazed by the unwavering intensity that Walsh and his teammates displayed throughout the match.