Broncos defeat the 2003 Premiers

Brisbane has turned in their strongest performance of the season, smashing reigning premiers the Penrith Panthers 32-14 in front of a massive crowd at Suncorp Stadium.

Once again the Berrigan brothers starred for the Broncos, with hooker Barry grabbing two tries and younger brother Shaun backing-up from Test duty with a four-pointer of his own.

Fellow Test players Michael De Vere, Brent Tate, Darren Lockyer and Shane Webcke also impressed with their tireless efforts. Webcke was sensational, battling in trademark fashion for 65 minutes, chalking-up 28 tackles and 13 hit-ups in an inspirational display

Brisbane?s internationals were not doing it alone, however, with youngster Karmichael Hunt impressing in a two-try performance and new starting prop Corey Parker matching the imposing Panthers pack every step of the way.

The visitors didn?t help their own cause, completing just 28 of 43 sets, however, nothing should detract from Brisbane?s performance, which confirmed they will once again be around when the season hits finals mode.

The Broncos started magnificently when Barry Berrigan dived through some feeble Penrith defence to open Brisbane?s account after just six minutes.

De Vere crossed four minutes later, pouncing on a beautifully-weighted Brett Seymour grubber to give Brisbane a 10-0 advantage.

John Lang?s men lifted, with Test forwards Joel Clinton and Tony Puletua leading the way. Puletua was rewarded for his efforts with a powerful four-pointer at the 30 minute mark, reducing the gap to 10-4 at the break.

After half-time both sides blew chances to score in a frantic opening. When the game settled it was Brisbane who grabbed the momentum, with Barry Berrigan finishing off a stunning movement down the right side of the field by Kangaroo teammates Tate and De Vere.

Despite being dominated for much of the game, Penrith were hanging on and when Trent Waterhouse barged over in the 56th minute they were back within a converted try.

But from that point the home side put the pedal down, with youngster Karmichael Hunt crossing twice and Shaun Berrigan sneaking over out wide to blow the margin out.

Amos Roberts picked up a consolation try late in the match, but the day belonged to Brisbane and the 37 745 fans that packed into Suncorp Stadium roared with approval as the final siren sounded.