Penrith Panthers 2009 season preview
February 11th 2009 06:17
The Lowdown
The only way was up for the Penrith Panthers in season 2008 after they finished 2007 as the NRL’s wooden spooners. With the talent and roster they have at their disposal, it is a big wonder why the men from the mountain continue to fall by the way side.
Although the inspiration installed by Petero Civoncieva provided the Panthers with some consistency, it was no where near enough to consolidate a position in the finals last season.
2009 prospects
Coach Matthew Elliott was expected to guide Penrith to regular finishes near the top of the NRL ladder in his first two seasons in charge.
Instead, the former Canberra Raiders coach has been in the firing line for most of Penrith’s shocking performances throughout his tenure at CUA stadium.
Out of all the Panthers disappointments last season, none hurt Elliott more than the record breaking thrashing his side experienced against the Raiders in round 22.
The Panthers lost to Canberra 74-12 and it signaled the demise of a 2008 season that had a big finals opportunity written all over it.
At times last year, Penrith showcased the talents that often make them one of the most dangerous sides in the Premiership.
Their performances against the Warriors, Titans and Sharks early in the season demonstrated a will to win at all costs attitude, and it worked tremendously well for them.
Indeed Penrith’s away record was one of the best in the NRL last season. They only lost six games on the road which placed them fourth overall in games won away from home.
All that effort however mean’t nothing against the Raiders, as Penrith were chewed up and spat out against a hot Canberra unit.
That record breaking loss allowed Penrith to only win one out of their last four games in the season to effectively signal an end to a below par Centenary year.
Despite unearthing some very promising talent, headed by juniors Coote, Graham, Iosefa and Paulo, it will take time for the Panthers to replace the figures they have lost heading into 2009.
Tony Puletua, Rhys Wesser, Luke Rooney and Luke Priddis will not be easily replaced, so it may take time for Penrith to develop a competitive unit.
Prediction
With the discovery of some quality junior players, Penrith have their sights on dominating the future. It is a future however that is beyond a 2009 season that looks set to be a tough one for Elliott’s men.
They certainly have the talent and flair to cause teams some immense problems, but it is imperative that Penrith start 2009 well if they are to make the finals, let alone avoid the Wooden Spoon.
With all rosters in the NRL having improved substantially, Penrith have lost some valuable players and could find themselves rooted to the bottom of the ladder if they start 2009 the way they finished last year.
Finish - 16th
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