The implications for the ladder became apparent right away, overshadowing what was otherwise a thrilling last-minute field goal by the Warriors in their victory over South Sydney on Saturday night.
(If you're not enjoying the thrill of a last-minute one-pointer that has no bearing on standings, then you might be missing the true essence of the game).
Luke Hanson's kick in the 79th minute secured a 45-26 triumph for the Warriors against the Rabbitohs, moving them ahead of the Panthers by one point in points differential as the regular season heads into its final two weeks.
In the tight race for the top eight, both Canterbury and Manly still have a shot at qualifying, while Souths and North Queensland might find themselves in trouble.