LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a disappointing turn of events, the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles faced a heavy defeat against the Penrith Panthers in round 20 of The Knock On Effect NSW Cup.
The Sea Eagles started strong, storming out to an 18-0 lead in the first 20 minutes with three quick tries that had the Panthers on the back foot.
Second-rower Brad Parker was the first to put points on the board in the eighth minute, bulldozing his way through defenders to score his fourth try of the season and give his team a 6-0 lead.
The Sea Eagles continued their dominance with a well-executed play down the right edge that saw halfback Tylor Bunting cross the line to extend the lead to 12-0.
Winger Watson Heleta showed his skills by setting up Bunting's try with a clever grubber kick, showcasing the kind of flair that can turn a game on its head.
Full-back Clayton Faulalo added to the Sea Eagles' tally with a blistering run down the field, courtesy of a Brad Abbey interception, to score his 13th try of the season and put his team up 18-0.
However, the momentum shifted in the second half as the Panthers mounted a remarkable comeback, scoring an impressive 48 unanswered points with nine tries to secure a convincing victory.
It was a tough day at the office for the Sea Eagles, but they will regroup and come back stronger in their next outing.
Despite the loss, there were glimpses of brilliance from the Sea Eagles that showed their potential to compete with the best in the competition.
As they say in the world of Rugby League, it's not about how you fall but how you get back up and fight for the win.
The Sea Eagles will no doubt take this defeat as a learning experience and use it to fuel their drive for success in the future.