Penrith Panthers are motivated to reclaim their dominance in the NRL following a disappointing exit from last year's finals, where they were thwarted by the Broncos. This season, the squad aims for their fifth premiership in six years, driven by the sting of last year's defeat.
Reece Walsh had a standout performance in the finals series, earning the Clive Churchill Medal for his efforts in the grand final against Melbourne. His impactful play led to Brisbane's victory and denied Penrith a sixth consecutive appearance in the grand final since 2020.
Watching the grand final unfold from home fueled a sense of bitterness among Penrith players. Forward Liam Martin reflected on the emotional toll, noting, "(It was) just dead silence. I think everyone sort of had the same feeling of just being pretty bitter."
Fullback Dylan Edwards expressed his discomfort watching the game instead of playing. He shared, "I didn't like watching it. I'd rather be there," highlighting the unique challenges of being sidelined after years of competition.
Traditionally, Penrith's motivation has centered around defending their title. However, the painful memory of last year's preliminary final loss to Brisbane has shifted their focus this year. Martin emphasized, "That loss certainly burned desire within us," as the team seeks to generate renewed energy and commitment.
Casey McLean acknowledged the frustration of seeing another team lift the trophy, stating, "It was a tough pill to swallow last year." This shared yearning for victory underscores the team's competitive spirit heading into upcoming matches.
With a qualifying final against the Roosters at CommBank Stadium looming, Penrith looks poised to secure another opportunity for a premiership run. The mix of experience and ambition within the squad, including eight players without a championship ring, ensures a strong drive for success.