NRL, ROUND 23, AUGUST 4th, 2023 PENRITH PANTHERS v MELBOURNE STORM
BLUEBET STADIUM, PENRITH, NSW
In a highly anticipated NRL showdown, the Penrith Panthers and the Melbourne Storm are set to collide in an electrifying Round 23 match-up at the iconic BlueBet Stadium on August 4th, 2023. This blockbuster encounter could potentially be a glimpse of the finals, as both heavyweight clubs vie for dominance in what promises to be an unforgettable contest.
The Penrith Panthers are on an absolute rampage, leading the ladder with incredible momentum. With nine wins from their last 10 games, they’re marching confidently towards a rare and elusive three-peat of premierships. The return of their star playmaker, Nathan Cleary, has further bolstered their firepower, as he recently dazzled fans with a halfbacks clinic in the commanding 28-0 shut-out of the Sharks. It’s no wonder that teams find it tough to halt the Panthers’ current form, especially with Cleary fit and firing.
On the other side, the Melbourne Storm, a powerhouse team led by the legendary Craig Bellamy, boast an awe-inspiring roster, including the likes of Cam Munster, Jahrome Hughes, and Harry Grant. While they suffered occasional inconsistency this season, they showcased their true potential with a thumping 46-16 victory over the Eels last week, sending a clear message to their opponents. With Bellamy at the helm and key players returning to full strength, the Storm are a formidable force that no team would willingly face come September.
This match holds special significance as a chapter in the intense rivalry between the Panthers and the Storm, adding an extra layer of intensity to the proceedings. Interestingly, the Panthers have had the upper hand in recent encounters, winning four of their past six games against the Storm since their heart-breaking loss in the 2020 grand final.
When these two giants clashed a month ago at Marvel Stadium, the Panthers, despite missing Nathan Cleary, staged a remarkable comeback, running down a Storm side that had surged to a 14-0 lead early on. This Friday night’s contest provides the perfect opportunity for Bellamy’s men to fine-tune their game in preparation for finals football. Meanwhile, Ivan Cleary’s Panthers have their sights set on securing the minor premiership, facing stiff competition from the Broncos for the top spot.
Both teams possess star players in scintillating form. Storm’s hooker Harry Grant has been unstoppable, scoring six tries in his last six games, adding even more attacking threat to the Melbourne side. Panthers winger Brian To’o, a true try-scoring sensation, has been on fire, netting 12 tries in his last nine games at BlueBet Stadium.
As the referee, Adam Gee, along with touch judges Chris Sutton and Drew Oultram, oversee the clash, the excitement is palpable, making this Round 23 match one of the most highly anticipated in the NRL calendar.
In conclusion, brace yourself for an action-packed showdown as the Panthers and the Storm battle for supremacy in NRL Round 23. Witness a potential finals preview, a fierce rivalry reignited, and star players in peak form. With both teams hungry for victory, expect nothing less than a thrilling contest that will keep fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle blows.
Panthers team: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Zac Hosking 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Brian To’o 6. Jarome Luai 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. James Fisher-Harris 11. Scott Sorensen 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Soni Luke 15. Lindsay Smith 16. Matt Eisenhuth 17. Jaeman Salmon 18. Jack Cogger 19. Luke Garner 20. Izack Tago 21. Thomas Jenkins 22. Liam Henry
Storm team: 1. Nick Meaney 2. William Warbrick 3. Marion Seve 4. Young Tonumaipea 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant 10. Christian Welch 11. Trent Loiero 12. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 13. Josh King 14. Tom Eisenhuth 15. Alec MacDonald 16. Tepai Moeroa 17. Eliesa Katoa 18. Tyran Wishart 19. Bronson Garlick 20. Jonah Pezet 21. George Jennings 22. Grant Anderson
LATE MAIL? Some big outs for the Storm, meanwhile, with halfback Jahrome Hughes (ill) and winger Xavier Coates (hip) ruled out of their Friday night clash against the Panthers.
Referee: Adam Gee
Touch Judge: Chris Sutton
Touch Judge: Drew Oultram
Senior Review Official: Ashley Klein
PREDICTION
However, right now, it’s impossible to back against the Panthers, especially at home, where they’ve won seven straight and barely lost over the last three seasons.
Not much value in backing the Panthers as a result, but we are liking the under’s play here. Seven of the last eight meetings between the teams at BlueBet Stadium have seen Under 39.5 total points, while the Panthers kept the Sharks scoreless here last week. Look for anytime try scorers also.
I have to take the Panthers in this game. I can not see anyone beating them this season, not even Brisbane, unless injuries or suspensions come into play. The Storm are too inconsistent for me. This is unusual for a Bellamy coached team.
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