On Sunday, Penrith solidified their position as minor premiers in the NRL, but more significantly, they celebrated the successful returns of two pivotal players ahead of the finals.
Lock Isaah Yeo had initially faced the prospect of a season-ending pec injury sustained during a match against the Warriors a month earlier.
However, the Panthers made a strategic choice to avoid surgery, allowing him to rehabilitate for four weeks. His effort paid off as he played nearly an hour in their decisive 38-10 victory over the Wests Tigers.
Joining Yeo in his comeback was hooker Mitch Kenny, who also completed over 50 minutes of play in his return. This restoration of key players is crucial as the team prepares for their upcoming qualifying final against the Sydney Roosters.
Halfback Nathan Cleary praised Yeo's calming influence, stating, "It's the calm head, Yeoey, his leadership's second to none." He emphasized that both Yeo and Kenny would contribute vital experience and steadiness to the squad.
Kenny, who had been sidelined since April with a fractured fibula and syndesmosis resulting from a hip-drop tackle, noticeably energized the team with his presence.
Cleary remarked on Kenny's exceptional skill, highlighting his ability to seamlessly integrate back into the team. "Just having him back in training over the last two or three weeks... Not many people can do that," he noted.
Coach Ivan Cleary acknowledged the significance of clinching the minor premiership while competing at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta. The Panthers' home ground is currently under renovation, and he recognized the atmosphere the stadium can create during finals.
"When this place (CommBank) is full, it's a great stadium," he said, hoping for a packed crowd in the upcoming match to replicate that thrilling finals feeling.