BREAKING NEWS: Review of the Penrith Panthers for the season
As the 2024 NRL season progresses, the Penrith Panthers remain one of the most formidable teams in the competition, continuing their dominance under coach Ivan Cleary. After securing back-to-back premierships in 2021 and 2022, the Panthers entered 2024 with a target on their back, but their depth, tactical discipline, and high standards have kept them in the upper echelons of the league.
Squad and Key Players
Penrith’s squad is still built around a core group of elite players who have helped establish the club as one of the most successful sides in recent years. Nathan Cleary, arguably the best halfback in the competition, continues to steer the team with his game management, kicking prowess, and leadership. Alongside him, Jarome Luai remains a dynamic playmaker, with his flair and creativity making him a key asset in breaking down opposition defences.
The forward pack, led by the likes of Isaah Yeo, James Fisher-Harris, and Moses Leota, remains one of the most powerful in the league. Yeo’s work ethic and versatility make him one of the most underrated forwards in the game, while Fisher-Harris and Leota provide the hard edge and toughness needed for the Panthers to maintain dominance in the middle of the field.
The addition of several young talents, including promising outside backs like Taylan May and Sunia Turuva, has helped maintain Penrith’s well-rounded game. The Panthers are also benefiting from having a strong bench, allowing them to rotate fresh legs throughout the contest, especially in high-intensity games.
Tactics and Style of Play
Penrith’s game style under Cleary remains one of the most structured and disciplined in the NRL. They are a well-oiled machine, built on a rock-solid defence, quick ruck play, and a high level of teamwork. The Panthers’ defensive structure has been a hallmark of their success over the past few years, with players working in unison to limit opposition opportunities. In attack, they utilize a strong forward platform to set up their backline, with Cleary’s kicking game often pinpointing attacking opportunities.
Their ruck dominance is crucial in setting the tempo of the game, and they have a solid mix of experience and youth to create an adaptable team. While the Panthers are known for their clinical execution, they also have the ability to adapt, switching to a more expansive style of play when needed.
Challenges
Despite their strengths, Penrith faces challenges in 2024, particularly in the transition to life after some of their veteran players, like Api Koroisau (who left in 2023) and Viliame Kikau (who departed after 2022). Though the team’s depth has helped mitigate these losses, there will always be a question of whether the next wave of players can rise to the occasion when under pressure.
Additionally, with the increased focus on player welfare and injuries, ensuring that key players like Cleary and Luai stay fit will be crucial to their premiership ambitions.
Conclusion
The Penrith Panthers remain a top contender in the 2024
season. Their blend of youth, experience, and tactical discipline makes them one of the most complete teams in the competition. While challenges exist, particularly around player transitions and injuries, Penrith’s overall depth, strong leadership, and unyielding commitment to their systems should keep them in the race for a third consecutive title.
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