Tigers out-flash Panthers in battle of the big cats

v BYE

The Wests Tigers have come away with an 8-point victory on Saturday night at ANZ Stadium, downing Penrith 34-26 in an exciting contest in front of a disappointing 10,000 crowd.

Penalty goals were the early flavour of this contest, with both sides converting easy penalties into two points. Penrith struck first in the tryscoring column in the 17th minute when Josh Mansour was made to work for a spectacular try in the corner.

James Fisher-Harris doubled Penrith's efforts comfortably two minutes later, and the visitors suddenly led 14-2 leaving the Wests Tigers scratching their heads - but not for long.

James Tedesco laid his claim to the NSW Blues fullback jersey with a beautiful run down the left side, creating a try for Tim Simona. The following ten minutes was a messy passage of play before the home side put the foot down, playing some entertaining footy.

Ava Seumanufagai and Tim Simona both scored as a result of intercepts in the 32nd and 34th minutes, putting the Wests Tigers ahead 18-14 before a try on halftime to David Nofoaluma saw them lead by eight at the change of ends.

Tedesco wasted no time in continuing his case to be named in the New South Wales side - setting up Jordan Rankin after burning the Panthers defenders with his speed. At 28-14 the game looked as good as won for the Wests Tigers.

Penrith looked to have scored at the 46th minute through Tedesco's opposite in Matt Moylan, but the Bunker denied him as the ball had come loose.

The result was put beyond reasonable doubt by Robbie Farah in the 63rd minute, with the Panthers then scoring twice in the final ten minutes to add some respectability - Trent Merrin and Isaah Yeo gracing the scoresheet and Nathan Cleary's perfect boot (5 from 5) reducing the final margin to 34-26 in the Wests Tigers' favour.

Next Sunday sees the Panthers host the Sharks at Pepper Stadium, while the Wests Tigers will carry some positive form into a clash with the in-form Canterbury-Bankstown side at ANZ Stadium on Saturday night.