Round 17: Panthers v Cowboys preview
Panthers and Cowboys Battle for Crucial Points at BlueBet Stadium
The Penrith Panthers and North Queensland Cowboys are set to clash this Sunday at 4 pm at BlueBet Stadium. Both teams are coming off a bye, with the Cowboys experiencing their first break of the season after waiting 16 rounds. The Panthers, currently in second place with a 10-4 record, look to maintain their strong form, while the Cowboys, clinging to eighth with an 8-7 record, aim to solidify their position in the top eight.
Before their bye, the Panthers demonstrated their resilience when they travelled to Newcastle to face the Knights, securing a 26-18 victory. Jarome Luai shone as the chief playmaker, contributing a try and setting up two others. Despite conceding the first try, Penrith responded quickly, with Scott Sorensen and Brian To'o crossing the line within five minutes of each other. The first half ended in an arm wrestle, but Luai's individual brilliance gave the Panthers a 14-6 lead at the break. Though Newcastle mounted a comeback with two quick tries in the second half, Penrith's unwavering resilience saw them hold on. With several key players named for the State of Origin, the Panthers' ‘next man up' mentality will be crucial, ensuring they are well-prepared regardless of Origin absentees.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, showcased their dominance in their Round 15 match against the Canberra Raiders, leading 24-0 at halftime thanks to tries from Reuben Cotter, Griffin Neame, Tom Dearden, and Chad Townsend. Their goal-line defence was formidable, preventing the Raiders from scoring on three occasions. Although Canberra staged a second-half fightback, the Cowboys added two more tries through Valentine Holmes and Reece Robson to seal the win. With six players named in the Queensland State of Origin squad, the Cowboys might face challenges, but the team is hopeful, especially with experienced players like Scott Drinkwater, who had an outstanding game against the Raiders, in their ranks.
Last meeting: Round 8 2024 - Cowboys 20 Panthers 26
Who to watch: The last time these two sides met, Panthers winger Brian To'o was sensational in his 100th game, where he scored a try, recorded a massive 17 tackle busts and ran for almost 200 running metres. Expect him to get over the line at least once, as To'o has scored 23 tries in his past 17 games at BlueBet Stadium, even if he will be off the back of an Origin appearance for NSW on Wednesday night.
With several key players potentially missing from this game, the Cowboys will look to their experienced players to lead the way. In particular, winger Kyle Feldt will be looking to reach 10 tries for the ninth straight season. The 32-year-old put on an aerial try-scoring masterclass against the Raiders in the side's Round 15 win.
Favourite: Despite having a number of key players backing up after Origin commitments, the Panthers are clear favourites, especially at home, where they've won 14 of their last 16 games.
My tip: Their depth and home advantage should see them through in what promises to be a competitive match.
