The Penrith Panthers are on a roll, and it's all thanks to their star player, Nathan Cleary. With his 200th NRL match on the horizon, Cleary's father and coach, Ivan, reflects on the journey and the impact his son has had on the game.
Ivan highlights Cleary's leadership and the positive influence he has on young players, both on and off the field. The Panthers' recent dominance, including a 76-10 victory over Brisbane and Melbourne, has seen them become the first team to win their opening five games by 20+ points, with a staggering points differential of +150. This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering their consistent success over the past decade.
One of the key factors in the Panthers' success is their ability to start games strongly and maintain their momentum. This is a trait that has served them well during their premiership reign. The team's unheralded winger, Thomas Jenkins, has been a standout performer, scoring an incredible 12 tries in the opening five rounds, a record in premiership history. Jenkins' performance has been so impressive that it has kept three-time premiership winner Izack Tago in the NSW Cup.
The Panthers' recent form has seen them start the season 5-0 for the third time in six years, a feat that has them on track for another potential premiership run. The team's confidence and momentum are high, and they are now favored to continue their winning streak. The Bulldogs will face a challenging task in Round 6, as they aim to stop the Panthers' juggernaut, having won only one of their past 10 games against the Panthers and conceding 126 points in four consecutive losses at Accor Stadium.
Nathan Cleary's impact on the game is undeniable, and his leadership and performance have elevated the Panthers to new heights. With his 200th match approaching, Cleary is set to become a true legend of the game, leaving a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations of players.
