LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Gallant Panthers Fall to Ladder-Leading Steelers
The Penrith Panthers delivered a commendable effort but ultimately lost 16-6 to the unbeaten Illawarra Steelers at BEST Hub on Saturday.
Despite being hindered by injuries, the Panthers had the Steelers on the back foot for significant portions of the match.
Claudia Bush gave Penrith a brief lead in the second half, showcasing her skills with a crucial solo try and conversion.
However, the Steelers rallied at the end, securing their fourth consecutive win of the 2025 season.
Though the Panthers came away with a loss, they demonstrated resilience by limiting the high-flying Illawarra to their lowest score and smallest winning margin of the season.
This defeat marks the Panthers' second in a row, putting a pause on what started as a promising campaign in their inaugural NSW Women's Premiership season.
Previously, the Panthers won their opening match against the Central Coast Roosters and secured a draw with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, but have since faced setbacks against the Cronulla Sharks and now the Steelers.