LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Panthers will be without winger Brian To'o for up to a month after he aggravated a hamstring injury that initially ruled him out of their season opener.
To'o missed their first game against the Sharks and had to come off late in their loss to Souths due to the same issue.
Coach Ivan Cleary confirmed that To'o will be out for a few weeks: "Nathan (Cleary) will be back, but 'Bizza' (To'o) won't be." The team is hopeful that fullback Dylan Edwards and Cleary will be ready to play against North Queensland after both trained on Monday.
To'o's absence is a significant setback for the Panthers, as he plays a crucial role in providing yardage coming out of trouble.
While the return of Cleary and Edwards will strengthen their attack, it may not solve their defensive struggles that were exposed in a tough first half against the Rabbitohs.
The Rabbitohs raced to a 28-0 lead in that game, highlighting the need for improvement on the defensive end.
Ivan Cleary acknowledged the importance of addressing these issues: "Nathan will be back, but 'Bizza' (To'o) won't be.
Hopefully Dyl will be."
Despite the challenges, the Panthers are looking forward to welcoming back Cleary and Edwards, who will boost their lineup.
Cleary had been dealing with concussion protocols while Edwards had been recovering from a groin injury.
Their return will provide much-needed support for the team, especially in light of To'o's absence.
The Panthers will hope to bounce back from their early-season struggles and put on a strong performance against North Queensland with a reinforced lineup.