Match Centre

Round 1: Panthers v Roosters preview

Panthers look to begin new era with statement victory against Roosters

After a disappointing 2019 season, the Panthers have the perfect opportunity to make a statement early this year against the defending premiers.

Penrith have typically struggled against quality opposition like the Roosters, who strangle and frustrate their opposition into defeat with iron-clad defence.

You only have to look at the Panthers' 32-2 loss to Melbourne last year.

Also seen as an opportunity to prove themselves against tough opposition, Penrith floundered and were listless in attack.

That inability to convert field position into points cruelled Penrith's chances last year.

The acquisition of dynamic hooker Apisai Koroisau will go a long way to helping take pressure of Nathan Cleary but he can't do everything himself.

Cleary and halves partner Jarome Luai may be a relatively new combination in the NRL but they have plenty of experience playing together in the lower grades.

That does not mean much at NRL level but they at least understand each other's game.

On the other hand, Cleary and former Panthers five-eighth James Maloney did not look entirely comfortable playing together as both are best when leading from the front.

It meant Cleary often had to take a step backwards to give the more experienced Maloney the room to steer the team around.

Now, as you have heard countless times, it is Cleary's team.

There are a few changes to Penrith's squad from last year.

Caleb Aekins replaces Dylan Edwards (ankle) at the back and is a very similar style of player.

Isaah Yeo starts at lock with James Fisher-Harris on the bench while Liam Martin starts on the edge.

Zane Tetevano is given a starting role up front.

Meanwhile, Stephen Crichton has been named on the bench although don't be surprised to see Matt Burton replace him and go to five-eighth while Luai relieves Koroisau.

The Roosters have question marks of their own as Luke Keary and Kyle Flanagan play their first NRL game together.

It will be interesting to see what impact Cooper Cronk's departure has on the club.

From putting pinpoint kicks in to a flying Daniel Tupou to his general talk and leadership skills, he leaves a sizeable hole to fill.

Flanagan is still developing while Keary will now be calling the shots.

Boyd Cordner has also been rested while Sitili Tupounuia gets his first crack on the edge.

For the Roosters, this game is crucial in setting the tone for their season ahead.

Arguably the greatest challenge they will face is simply getting up for each game.

Winning two-straight titles is no easy feat and it would have taken both a physical and mental toll.

Defence will be key for the Roosters here as while combinations may take time to form, Trent Robinson has always instilled a sense of pride in the work they do without the ball.

And against a Penrith side who struggles to score points, constantly turning them away early could frustrate the Panthers into defeat.

Last meeting: Round 24 2019 - Roosters 22 Panthers 6

Who to watch: For the home side, Liam Martin is one to keep a close eye on. Much has been made about the devastating form of Penrith's other more well-known second rower Viliame Kikau. But Martin also offers the Panthers plenty of punch on the edge. The 23-year old runs hard and with plenty of intent, with a habit for bumping people off tackles. The Panthers have a stacked side when it comes to the backrow position with James Fisher-Harris, Isaah Yeo and Kurt Capewell all chances of popping up. It means Martin needs to take this opportunity with both hands. Penrith are also too reliant on Kikau in attack so having Martin firing on the other side will better keep opposition defence in two minds.

Meanwhile, another player with a point to prove is Roosters interchange hooker Sam Verrills. Verrills was highly impressive starting in last year's grand final, scoring the opening try of the game. At just 21 years old, Verrills still has plenty of improvement in him. But he also offered a spark out of dummy-half that veteran Jake Friend can't provide as much of anymore. Named on the bench this week, Verrills will continue to use every game as a chance to press his case for a starting spot.

The favourite: The Roosters are well backed.

My tip: Rain is expected at Penrith which probably favours the Roosters given defence is their strength. The Panthers will hope to out-enthuse the Tricolours but with new combinations there is no guarantee they will have the cohesion in attack to break through. Roosters by 8.