Panthers show heart at last
April 20th 2008 00:29
Penrith showed plenty of heart against the Sharks
Ah Penrith,Penrith, Penrith.
They are a team that continue to tease all who tip them or those who do not.
Many last week thought that the Panthers were a big chance of knocking off the Roosters at CUA last week.
After all they managed to beat the Tigers at Campbelltown in what was a dominant performance the week before.
But like in usual circumstances the men of the mountain once again disappointed against their bitter rivals in what turned out to be a lucklustre performance.
It was a shame because the Penrith faithful showed out in force to support them in a match that really could have jolted their confidence big time.
So after such an anti-climax, what are NRL fans supposed to do when the Panthers play the Cronulla Sharks at Toyota Park.
The Sharks had played all their games away from home until now and were really thriving on their defence and on the way they strangle opposing teams out of the contest.
Who were you supposed to tip? The Panthers?
The game last night seemed easy enough to tip in terms of the form book, but like so many things in rugby league, you can't just rely on what's on paper.
That is why the NRL has had a different champion for the past 7 years. No one knows what's coming.
And we got a full dose of it last night at the Shire.
When Greg Bird scored in the 59th minute for the Sharks to stretch the lead to 10 after Covell's conversion, it seemed that Penrith would once again fall short despite there being 20 minutes remaining.
The Panthers would have folded again.
But hey this is Rugby league. Miracles do happen.
And with a little perserverance Penrith managed to achieve what many thought was beyond them. A hard fought grinding victory.
You only have to look at some of Penrith's individual stats to tell that all seventeen players on the paddack tried there behinds off.
Nathan Smith continues to impress in defence amassing 46 tackles while Captain Petero Civoniceva made 30.
The QLD legend also made 13 hitups for 128 metres in what was another outstanding performance from a player that would not look out of sorts in a team of the century.
For the Sharks, the only good news was the inspiring performance by former Roosters player Danny Nutley.
He has always been a player that wears his heart like Phar Lap and he once again showcased the power and determination that has continued to be a pivotal component of his game.
His stats are quite incredible. He made 35 tackles and made 17 hitups for 158 metres. The most out of any player on either side.
That will come as welcome relief for Ricky Stuart who's forward stocks have been depleted by injury and suspension.
Overall this was an important win for Penrith.
They now have three wins and are right in the mix for a top eight birth.
If they are to make the finals however they will need to roll up their sleeves and slog it out for the rest of this season.
At least we know now that nothing is impossible. Penrith now know as well.
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