Match Preview: NRL Round 14 vs Panthers

A win would shoot both teams back into top eight contention, with Wests Tigers and and Penrith sitting just two points and three points outside a finals position, respectively. 

The tantalising matchup between Jarome Luai and Nathan Cleary is the big talking point for this match, with the pair having won four premierships and countless other games together since their time in the Panthers junior representative system.

For Wests Tigers, the returns of Jeral Skelton and Latu Fainu from hamstring injuries will provide a boost to the side, while forwards Kit Laulilii and Charlie Murray join the interchange bench.

Murray, 23, will make his NRL debut after 66 games in the QLD/NSW Cup system.

A hard-working lock forward, Murray will provide effort and a high work-rate to the Wests Tigers lineup.

Isaiah Papali'i (knee) and Luke Garner (concussion) have both been included on the extended bench for Penrith, and are a chance of returning.

Wests Tigers have won two out of their last five matches against the Panthers, including a thrilling 12-8 win in Bathurst in 2023.

Fast Facts:

• Wests Tigers have won only three of their past 13 games against the Panthers.
• The Panthers have won 18 of their past 21 daytime games.
• Wests Tigers have won three of their past four games at CommBank Stadium.
• Panthers winger Brian To’o has scored four tries in his last three games at CommBank Stadium.
• Tigers winger Sunia Turuva has scored five tries in his last three games at CommBank.

Stats supplied by NRL historian/statistician David Middleton.