NRL Grand Final Preview: Panthers v Broncos

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Penrith Panthers v Brisbane Broncos Sunday 7:30pm at Accor Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park / Wanngal

This is it - the big dance - the one we've all been waiting for.

Penrith have been the team to beat all year, finishing top of the table with 18 wins, and claiming their 2nd straight minor premiership to cruise to their 4th straight grand final.

Last week, they were ruthless, scoring 38 points against a Melbourne side they held to only 4 points. Gun winger Brian To'o bagged a hat-trick, as Nathan Cleary controlled the game from start to finish. Though they weren't flawless, their ability to defend their errors makes them a formidable foe.

Despite the dominance of the reigning premiers, Brisbane's season has been nothing short of remarkable, finishing 2nd on equal points to Penrith. From a late season collapse that left them 9th in 2022 to their first Grand Final in 8 years, the Broncos are back.

A slow start against the Warriors saw them concede 2 tries in 11 minutes, and left fans holding their breath. They made more errors and completed worse than Penrith, but coach Kevin Walters will be impressed at how his side bounced back to a comfortable 42-12 win.

The matchup is an intriguing one. Arguably  the most successful team in the NRL era will clash with a show-stopping young side looking to break a 17-year premiership drought still - haunted by the ghosts of 2015.

Both sides are at full strength, naming the same 17 as last week. Jarome Luai and Izack Tago were successful in their injury return, and Herbie Farnworth has been cleared after suffering a hamstring injury at training.

Last meeting: Round 12 2023 - Broncos 4 Panthers 15

Who to watch: When it comes to players who can split the game open at the drop of a hat, look no further than Broncos fullback Reece Walsh. With blistering speed and a skilful passing and kicking game, it's no surprise the superstar fullback has 8 try contributions in his last 3 appearances. Despite being heavily criticised by fans last year, hooker Billy Walters has come out of his shell, becoming a quiet yet reliable performer. With solid defence and sharp attack, coming off scoring a double last week, Billy will be eager for a strong game.

As always, Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary has been instrumental in his sides success this season. Expect an exceptional kicking game and dangerous attack where he'll look to take the line on. Partnering him in the halves in Polarising 5/8, Jarome Luai.  Villain or victim? It depends who you ask. Luai will undoubtedly be looking to silence the critics and further prove his worth to Penrith, or any potential suitors next year.

Perhaps not dominating the headlines, an equally important matchup is that of Payne Haas and James Fisher-Harris. Both enforcers will be looking to dominate up the middle and lay a strong platform for their team.

Favourite: the Penrith Panthers are the favourite to win their 3rd straight grand final.

My tip: This game could really go either way. If Penrith can dominate early, they're a chance of running away with it. Alternatively, if Brisbane can keep it close, I think they can perform an upset. I expect the scores to be level with not long to go, Reynolds will shape up for a field goal and then pass to Walsh who will score. Broncos by 4.

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

1. Reece Walsh 2. Jesse Arthars 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Herbie Farnworth 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Thomas Flegler 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Haas 11. Kurt Capewell 12. Jordan Riki 13. Patrick Carrigan 14. Tyson Smoothy 15. Brendan Piakura 16. Kobe Hetherington 17. Keenan Palasia 18. Corey Oates

Referees: Adam Gee; Sideline Officials: Chris Sutton, David Munro; Video Referees: Ashley Klein;