Panthers 2023 preview: Rugby league history beckons for ‘dynasty’ hopefuls
Three in a row. Now there is a rugby league achievement that very few have equaled. Not even in modern times – actually not since the Parramatta Eels in the 1980s. Penrith could very well make rugby league history this year.
In retrospect there have actually been very few rugby league trebles.
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There is, of course, the St. George Dragons and their back-to-back elevens between 1956 and 1966. It’s an accomplishment that no team will repeat. The sporty basis is sure of it. The aforementioned Eels in the 80s too. Previously, the Rabbitohs (still just South Sydney with no nicknames for two of them) won three times between 1953 and 1955. Easts did it in the 1910s and 1930s, and Souths won five straight games in the 1920s. Then there’s the last one: Balmain claimed three from 1915 to 1917.
One thing is very clear – it has become increasingly difficult for any top-flight football team to achieve. Gone are the days of rule in the 20s, 30s and 50s. Except, here are the Panthers looking like they have the best shot at winning three straight NRL premieres and truly making their mark as the 21st century dynasty team.
conclusion of the last year: 1st, 20 wins and four losses
Last ten NRL campaigns: 1st (premier), 2nd (premier), 1st (runner-up), 10th, 6th (half), 7th (half), 6th (half), 11th, 4th (prelim), 10th
Estimated line-up for round 1
- Dylan Edwards
- Taylor May
- Izack Tago
- Stephen Crichton
- Brian To’o
- Jarome Luai
- Nathan Cleary
- Moses Leota
- Mitch Kenny
- James Fisher-Harris
- Luke Garner
- Liam Martin
- Isaah Yeo
- Sonie Luke
- Spencer Leniu
- Scott Sorensen
- Jaeman salmon
Coach: Ivan Klary
Biggest Losses: Apisai Koroisau, Viliame Kikau Biggest win: Luke Garner
This is what 2023 looks like for Penrith
For a team The sporty basis Threatening to make National Rugby League history, the start of 2023 hasn’t exactly been the best stretch for the Panthers, particularly in terms of recruitment and retention.
While Ivan Cleary managed to bring in Luke Garner for the second row, he’s just replacing the outgoing Viliame Kikau and that’s not even the worst exit; Championship hooker Apisai Koroisau has also walked out the door, joining the Wests Tigers rebuild for a hefty salary package after winning two in a row.
Then there’s the 12-13 loss to St Helen’s at the Club World Cup.
That being said, the Panthers are still the best shot at the title. Nathan Cleary is the best halfback in the game with only Nicho Hynes in the same realm, and the rest of the Western machine is dripping with International and Origin talent.
The only big question mark is how Koroisau’s departure will affect Cleary. We’ve already seen some shaky signs at the World Cup in the off-season and that shock St Helens loss wasn’t the biggest confidence boost as he plays with a different serve than rake. But despite those worries, we reiterate – Cleary is the best halfback in the game. His father built the Panthers’ plan around his already dazzling son, giving him license to truly control games in a way we don’t often get in rugby league.
The Roosters, Rabbitohs, Sharks and Cowboys all look set to challenge Penrith as the season progresses. But in any one-on-one elimination match, you would support the dynasty-bound Panthers every time. And that’s what we’re doing for 2023.
Expected end of 2023: 1
The first five: Panthers (H), Rabbitohs (H), BYE, Eels (A), Raiders (A)
TopSport Odds: Premiers $4, Top 4 make: $1.43, Final 8 make: $1.10, Top 8 miss: $7
minimum score: Nothing but a third straight title for this hopeful NRL dynasty.
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