The Penrith Panthers have moved to the top of the NRL ladder courtesy of a convincing 16-point victory over the West Tigers at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday. Sitting third before the Round 17 clash, the Panthers leapfrogged Manly and Canterbury following the 26-10 win.
After a scrappy start from both teams, the Panthers settled down and took control of the contest. Matt Moylan was the first to cross for the visitors, the fullback showing impressive footwork to dance through the Tigers’ defence.
Five-eighth Jamie Soward converted for a 6-0 lead before Penrith No.7 Peter Wallace was forced from the field with an ankle injury. Losing one of their halves, however, didn’t diminish the Panthers’ dominance, their cause helped by undisciplined play from the Tigers, who were guilty of pushing passes and conceding cheap penalties.
Panthers centre Dean Whare crossed for his side’s second in the 26th minute, Soward kicking truly for a 12-0 lead. The Tigers’ best chance came with five minutes remaining in the half. Centre Chris Lawrence appeared to have scored but was ruled to have knocked on as he attempted to ground the ball.
The Tigers were made to rue the missed opportunity when Panthers winger Kevin Naiqama scored early in the second half. With his side trailing by 16, Tigers hooker Blake Austen barged over to give the Leichhardt faithful something to cheer about, but they were soon silenced as the Panthers hit back with interest.
Jamal Idris and Whare both crossed for Penrith in quick succession to put the game out of reach for the home team. Tigers halfback Luke Brooks dived over with three minutes remaining, but it was nothing more than a consolation try.
