Panthers v Knights: Laurie out, JFH in doubt; Best hamstrung
After weathering an early storm against the Dolphins in Round 20, the Penrith Panthers look to be back in ominous form after outclassing the Dragons in their last match, with the Knights next in their sights.
Halfback Nathan Cleary continued to stamp his comeback from injury with another showstopping performance, scoring a hat-trick in his side's 46-10 win.
While Penrith celebrated their win, they picked up fresh injury concerns with Warriors-bound prop James Fisher-Harris leaving the field in the opening minutes with a groin injury.
Fullback Daine Laurie left the field in the 20th minute and failed his HIA after a head clash with Dragons fullback Mat Feagai, and won't be available this week.
Centre Izack Tago pleaded guilty to a Grade 1 dangerous contact charge from the match, but has avoided suspension with a fine.
The Knights come into this game off the bye, but were humbled at home in their last start against the Broncos, going down 30-14.
The match also dealt the side a big injury blow, with Blues Game Three star Bradman Best succumbing to a hamstring injury.
Coach Adam O'Brien will be hoping to have Brodie Jones back on deck after suffering a head knock in Round 19, with Adam Elliott and Enari Tuala both nursing calf injuries.
Match: Panthers v Knights
Round 22 -
home Team
Panthers
2nd Position
away Team
Knights
11th Position
Venue: BlueBet Stadium, Penrith
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
Stat Attack
- The Panthers have won 13 of their past 15 games against the Knights.
- The Knights have not won at BlueBet Stadium since 2018.
- Panthers winger Brian To’o has scored six tries in six games against the Knights.
- The Knights have won four of their past five away games.
- Panthers hooker Mitch Kenny will make his 100th NRL appearance.
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.
