MELBOURNE STORM V PENRITH PANTHERS
NRL, PRELIMINARY FINAL, SEPT 22, 2023, ACCOR STADIUM, SYDNEY
Rugby league game tonight ：Channel 9
In a matchup that promises to deliver an electrifying spectacle, the Melbourne Storm and the Penrith Panthers are set to clash at Accor Stadium, Sydney, in the NRL Preliminary Final 2023. This showdown is one of the most anticipated games of the season, as both teams vie for a chance to secure their spot in the Grand Final.
Few NRL games carry the same level of pressure as a Preliminary Final. Everything is on the line for these two premiership contenders, and fans can expect a night of heart-pounding action. The Panthers come into this clash as heavy favorites, but it would be unwise to underestimate a side coached by the legendary Craig Bellamy, especially in the finals.
The Panthers have been to the last three grand finals and are eager to make it four consecutive appearances, with the Melbourne Storm standing in their way of a third consecutive premiership. On the other hand, the Storm boasts an impressive finals record, reaching the preliminary finals in 10 of their last 13 seasons. They are determined to get one over the reigning premiers.
Both teams have received a boost with key players returning at just the right time. For the Panthers, Jerome Luai and Izack Tago are set to make their comeback, while Jahrome Hughes is expected to overcome his injury and return for the Storm. There were concerns over Nathan Cleary’s finger injury, but the halfback should be ready to play.
While there are exciting matchups across the field, it’s the halves combinations that could determine the outcome of this game. Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes for the Storm, and Nathan Cleary and Jerome Luai for the Panthers, possess the ability to change the game’s course in an instant. Munster and Hughes are known for their game-breaking abilities, while Cleary’s kicking game and Luai’s agility make them formidable opponents.
Three years after their thrilling 26-20 grand final clash, the Storm and Panthers prepare to face off in a preliminary final at Accor Stadium. While Melbourne emerged victorious in the 2020 decider, it was that very game that sparked the Penrith dynasty. Now, as defending champions and minor premiers, the Panthers enter this match as hot favorites.
The Panthers earned their spot in the preliminary final after a convincing 32-6 win over the Warriors in the first week of the playoffs. They come into this game well-rested and just 80 minutes away from making history by claiming a third straight premiership.
The Panthers have further bolstered their lineup with the return of two key backs, Jarome Luai and Izack Tago. Although Luai has been named at No. 6, there might be a late switch with Jack Cogger starting. The decision regarding Luai’s role could be influenced by the game’s progress, especially if the Panthers find themselves in a comfortable position. If the Panthers are in front they will save Luai for the final.
As for the Melbourne Storm, while they welcome the return of Jahrome Hughes at halfback, they will miss winger Xavier Coates due to an ankle injury. The Storm secured their place in the preliminary finals with a last-gasp victory over the Roosters, rebounding from a demoralizing defeat to the Broncos.
The Storm and the Panthers have a history of intense encounters, having faced each other seven times since 2020, with the Panthers winning five of those matches. This adds another layer of intrigue to their upcoming clash.
In the battle of the forwards, the Panthers will rely on the likes of Moses Leota, James Fisher-Harris, and Isaah Yeo, while the Storm will count on Tui Kamikamica, Christian Welch, big Nelson, and Josh King to set the tone.
With both teams in top form and their star players back in action, the NRL Preliminary Final between the Melbourne Storm and the Penrith Panthers is poised to be a memorable contest. Fans can expect a thrilling display of rugby league as these two giants collide on the road to the Grand Final.
Panthers: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Izack Tago 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. Jack Cogger 15. Lindsay Smith 16. Spencer Leniu 17. Luke Garner 18. Tyrone Peachey 19. Matt Eisenhuth 20. Zac Hosking 21. Luke Sommerton 22. Thomas Jenkins
Storm: 1. Nick Meaney 2. William Warbrick 3. Marion Seve 4. Justin Olam 5. Reimis Smith 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant 10. Christian Welch 11. Trent Loiero 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Josh King 14. Tyran Wishart 15. Tom Eisenhuth 16. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 17. Tariq Sims 18. Grant Anderson 19. Bronson Garlick 20. Sualauvi Faalogo 21. Tepai Moeroa 22. Chris Lewis
Referee: Adam Gee
Touch Judge: Chris Sutton
Touch Judge: Dave Munro
Senior Review Official: Grant Atkins
Prediction: As the anticipation builds for this high-stakes encounter, it’s time to make a prediction. While the Melbourne Storm can never be counted out, the Panthers seem to have the edge over the squad. In a bold prediction, we foresee the Panthers winning by 13 or more points. It’s a brave call, but we believe they will pull away in the second half, showcasing their dominance on the field.
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