LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In a highly anticipated clash, the Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers are set to face off in a preliminary final at Accor Stadium, three years after their thrilling grand final clash.
The Storm emerged victorious in the 2020 decider, but it was the game that sparked the beginning of the Penrith dynasty.
As defending champions and minor premiers, the Panthers enter the match as hot favorites, fueled by their dominant 32-6 win over the Warriors in the first week of the playoffs.
Rested and ready, they are just 80 minutes away from making history with a third consecutive premiership.
On the other hand, the Storm secured their place in the preliminary finals with a dramatic last-minute victory over the Roosters.
This is a familiar position for Melbourne, as they have reached this stage in eight out of the last nine seasons.
They have experienced both triumphs and setbacks in finals footy, having bounced back from a demoralizing 26-0 defeat to the Broncos just a week before.
The Storm and the Panthers have crossed paths on seven occasions since 2020, with the Panthers holding the upper hand, winning five of those matches.