NRL, ROUND 22, JULY 29th, 2023 PENRITH PANTHERS v CRONULLA SHARKS
BLUEBET STADIUM,PENRITH
Brace yourselves for an exhilarating NRL showdown as Round 22 brings an epic clash between the mighty Penrith Panthers and the determined Cronulla Sharks at BlueBet Stadium on July 29th, 2023.
Both teams enter this encounter with high stakes on the line. The Panthers, led by the formidable return of star player Nathan Cleary, are gunning for a third consecutive premiership, showing no signs of slowing down with their stunning form of nine wins from their last ten games. In contrast, the under-pressure Sharks are striving to keep their finals hopes alive after recent defeats, struggling defensively and against top-eight teams in the league.
Last round saw Penrith celebrate Nathan Cleary’s triumphant return with a comfortable 44-18 victory over the Bulldogs, reinforcing their status as a well-structured machine. Meanwhile, across town, the Sharks’ season was put on the ropes by the Sea Eagles, conceding a whopping 74 points in their past two games. Cronulla faces a daunting challenge as they travel to the foot of the mountains to take on the two-time reigning premiers.
The Panthers have been a dominant force in recent clashes with the Sharks, and their head-to-head record proves their superiority.
Penrith has emerged victorious in five out of the last six meetings between the two teams, with a knack for securing substantial margins of victory. Conversely, the Sharks have found it difficult to taste success at BlueBet Stadium since 2018, adding extra pressure to their bid for a comeback.
The Panthers’ offensive prowess has been undeniable, winning nine of their last ten games and showcasing their ability to score over 50 points in two of their recent matches. On the other hand, Cronulla’s defensive struggles have been evident, conceding an average of 58 points in their last six games, which highlights their vulnerability against the relentless Panthers’ attack.
In conclusion, rugby league fans and followers are in for a thrilling spectacle as the Penrith Panthers and Cronulla Sharks collide in Round 22 at BlueBet Stadium. The Panthers’ pursuit of a third premiership faces a stern test against the Sharks, who are fighting to stay in the finals race. As the Panthers’ machine-like structure meets the Sharks’ determination, the outcome promises to be a rugby league battle you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars and get ready to witness a clash of titans that will leave fans on the edge of their seats!
Panthers team: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Tyrone Peachey 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. Zac Hosking 18. Jack Cogger 19. Luke Garner 20. Jaeman Salmon 21. Thomas Jenkins 22. Liam Henry
Sharks team: 1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Connor Tracey 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Oregon Kaufusi 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Toby Rudolf 11. Briton Nikora 12. Wade Graham 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Jack Williams 15. Siosifa Talakai 16. Thomas Hazelton 17. Royce Hunt 18. Matt Moylan 19. Kayal Iro 20. Braden Hamlin-Uele 21. Daniel Atkinson 22. Tuku Hau Tapuha
Referee: Gerard Sutton Touch Judge: Dave Munro Senior Review Official: Ashley Klein
PREDICTION
Panthers, Panthers, Panthers, by 13 plus points, To’o anytime try scorer.
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