LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a dramatic showdown at Parker Street Reserve, the Penrith Panthers managed to hold off a late charge from the South Sydney Rabbitohs, securing a hard-fought 30-26 victory in Round 18.
The match showcased a stark contrast between two halves, with the Panthers dominating the first and leading 30-16 before being unable to register any points in the second.
This win is crucial for the Panthers as it keeps them in contention for a top-four finish, allowing them to draw level with the Newtown Jets.
The game opened explosively, with the Rabbitohs racing to a 10-0 lead in the first five minutes thanks to early tries from Declan Casey and Ashton Ward.
However, the Panthers quickly responded, with Harrison Hassett scoring from a cross-field kick by Zac Lamont, narrowing the gap to 10-6 after 11 minutes.
The momentum shifted further when hooker Luke Sommerton capitalized on a series of six-agains to score next to the posts, putting the Panthers ahead 12-10 by the 15th minute.
In a twist of fate, a Penrith error allowed South Sydney to reclaim the lead, as Shaquai Mitchell crashed over from close range, making it 16-12 after 20 minutes.
Yet, the Panthers regained their composure, with a strategic 40/20 from Jack Cole leading to a try from Asu Kepaoa, leveling the match at 16-16 in the 23rd minute, even though Cole's conversion attempt failed.
The remainder of the game was a battle, but the Panthers' first-half performance ensured they held on for the win despite the Rabbitohs' strong finish.