LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Penrith Panthers have clinched their fourth consecutive NRL premiership with a commanding performance that may not reflect on the scoreboard, prevailing by eight points over the Melbourne Storm at Homebush on Sunday evening.
The boys from the foot of the mountains showed their dominance throughout the game, controlling possession and territory, but struggled to pull away on the scoreboard as the weary Melbourne team kept showing up in defense.
The outcome of the match was marred by a controversial call in the second half, along with an allegation of biting that will surely grab the headlines following the decider.
Despite the Panthers being in firm control of the game, Melbourne managed to score a try through Jack Howarth in the midst of the second half.
However, the try was disallowed by Grant Atkins in the bunker, despite clear images showing the ball touching the ground.
From that point on, Penrith maintained their lead, with Cameron Munster from the Storm being put on report in the final ten minutes for an alleged biting incident.