Extra Time March 26 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

Tom Jenkins.

Photo: NRL Photos.

KELMA

THE FINAL WORD

Parramatta has proven something of a thorn in Penrith’s side at various stages of this incredible era of success for Ivan Cleary’s side, though as we know the Panthers have always got the job done against their arch rivals when it mattered most.

However, the Eels’ solid record against the Panthers in the regular season will have Penrith on alert this weekend – they certainly won’t be taking Parramatta lightly.

That said, if the Panthers play as well as they have in the first three weeks of the competition, it’s virtually impossible to imagine the Eels getting close to them on Saturday evening.

Parramatta may have won their last two matches but they’ve hardly set the world on fire and when they did meet a side on top of its

game in Round 1 in the shape of Melbourne, they were thumped by 50.

It can’t be denied they showed plenty of tenacity and grit against the Broncos, while last Sunday they took advantage of a fumbling opposition in St George-Illawarra to get the job done.

But the Panthers are just on another level this year.

It’s not all going to be as easy as the opening three weeks of the season but it’s clear that if this Penrith side remains fit and switched on, they will be almost impossible to beat this season.

All of Penrith’s star players who had perhaps been a little burnt out last year are suddenly back delivering their best football – the likes of Dylan Edwards and Brian To’o heading the pack.

The Roosters are no easybeats but they just

had no answers to Penrith’s relentless energy last Friday night. Defensively, Penrith again put up a wall of steel that was virtually impossible to get past.

Penrith have enjoyed an average of 54 per cent possession in their three matches so far, compared to Parramatta’s 48 per cent. As I have noted in this preview several times, when you defend well you force errors and starve the opposition of the ball – and that’s exactly what the Panthers are doing at the moment.

For Parramatta to be any chance of causing a boilover in this one, they’ll need to fix their leaky defence. With 84 points conceded this year compared to Penrith’s 10, Jason Ryles will be focused on finding a way to stop the Panthers this Saturday and stifle their attack. Working in Parramatta’s favour is the game being played at CommBank Stadium despite being a Panthers home game. You can imagine

there will be a pretty even crowd split. There’s also plenty of energy in this Parramatta side with the likes of Tallyn Da Silva and Jonah Pezet adding some excitement to their game, improving on some of the stale elements that had bogged Parramatta down in recent years. But as much as I saw glimpses of hope for Eels fans in their performance last Sunday, overall it was far from consistent enough to beat Penrith. They let the Dragons back into the game on multiple occasions. Open the door for Penrith and they’ll walk in; the Dragons meantime were still fumbling for their keys.

I’m expecting a high energy game but with a much better turnaround and the form line in their favour, the Panthers should be way too strong here and get the job done comfortably; ensuring western Sydney bragging rights stay a little closer to the Blue Mountains. Tip: Panthers by 18.

Garner opens up about new deal

Premiership-winning forward Luke Garner will remain in Panthers colours until the end of the 2028 NRL season after signing a new two-year deal with the club.

The 30-year-old well and truly had his suitors, however the chance to remain at the Panthers far outweighed whatever any other club could offer.

Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, Garner said making a call on his long-term future wasn’t as difficult as he thought it would be.

“It’s always tough but it would’ve been harder if Penrith weren’t keen to keep me. That made my decision easier. There was always an option to stay here,” he revealed.

“I’m just stoked to get the deal done. This is exactly where I want to be.”

Garner has played 130 NRL games since

making his debut in 2018 with the Wests Tigers, earning a reputation as a consistent and hard-working edge forward.

A dual premiership winner with the Panthers in 2023 and 2024, he has been an integral part of the club’s sustained success in recent seasons.

Garner said being a Panther is the ultimate job.

“I just genuinely love coming to training every day. The coaching staff and everyone at the club make it super easy for us to roll in and enjoy our days here in every aspect,” he said.

“It’s just a great place to be. A great environment. Everyone that comes here says the same thing. It’s just a very special place to be and I’m grateful I’m here at this point in time.”

Panthers General Manager of Football Shane Elford said Garner has been an “outstanding addition” to Penrith since his arrival from the Tigers in 2023.

“We’re excited to have him commit to

seasons. He is a true professional who prepares diligently and consistently delivers for the team,” Elford said.

“His work ethic, versatility and team-first attitude are highly valued within our group.”

Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said Garner’s impact extended well beyond his performances on the field.

“Luke is not only a high-quality footballer, but a terrific person who represents our club with integrity,” Cameron said.

“He is someone who genuinely invests in the community, whether that’s through charity work or engaging with our fans, and he consistently gives his time to make a positive difference.

“We’re proud to have him at Panthers and pleased he’ll continue to be part of our organisation for the next two seasons.”

Panthers supporters will get their chance to celebrate Garner’s exciting extension when he takes on the Parramatta Eels this Saturday evening at CommBank Stadium.

The Round 4 blockbuster will mark Penrith’s first match of the year at their home away from home in Parramatta

“It’s been a while since we’ve played there, but it’ll be good,” Garner said.

“Battle of the Wests are always fun! Parra

are playing well now but they always play well against us. Hopefully plenty of Penrith fans can get out there considering it’s our first home game.”

“It’s been a good start but then again we haven’t played the perfect game, so there’s nothing to be too happy about just yet,” he said.

“The results are definitely pleasing but there’s still periods in the game that we need to improve. Yes, we’ve won three games but realistically we haven’t done anything yet. We’ll see how we go at the end of the year.”

Garner said while Penrith’s hot start to the season has everyone talking, the best is yet to come.

Luke Garner has signed a new deal with Penrith. Photo: NRL Photos.

Luke Garner chats with Nathan Taylor. Photo: Melinda Jane.

NATHAN TAYLOR

NRL journeyman makes his mark at the Panthers

Freddy Lussick may only be 25-yearsold, but he’s already considered somewhat of a journeyman in the NRL.

Prior to his arrival at the Panthers this season, the hooker began his career at the Sydney Roosters in 2020 before joining the Dragons for a couple of matches in 2021.

From 2022-2025, he made a home for himself at the New Zealand Warriors, playing 42 NRL games and establishing himself as a handy utility option.

Last season, Lussick was part of the Warriors’ formidable reserve grade team, who won two trophies – the NSW Cup and the NRL State Championship.

Last Friday evening at Allianz Stadium, Lussick successfully made his fourth club debut ironically against one of his former clubs.

Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, the father of two said it was “awesome” to play in the NRL again in front of his dad, partner and kids.

“It was a big pre-season and it had been a goal of mine to play first grade at Penrith,

so it was good to get out there and the boys had a really good win,” Lussick said.

Lussick only played 11 minutes in Penrith’s huge 40-4 thrashing of the Roosters, but despite the limited playing time, he was more than grateful to Ivan Cleary for showing faith in him so soon.

“It’s good that I have his trust and I’ve got the playing group’s trust,” Lussick said.

“Honestly, I’ve been so happy coming here, learning so much. The standards that are set here are really high and I’m enjoying learning each day and getting better.

“Honestly, I couldn’t be happier where I am at the moment.”

After four years over in Auckland, Lussick – whose two brothers Darcy and Joey played in the NRL – said returning to Australia to be closer to family was something he always had in the back of his mind.

“I’m originally from Sydney and when I heard Ivan was interested, I jumped at the opportunity knowing how good this club is and what they’ve been able to do the last 10 years,” Lussick said.

“I was originally at the Roosters and then over to the Warriors and now I’m back home. I guess eventually, down the track, I wanted to come back but I enjoyed my time

in New Zealand.

“I’ve got two kids now but all my nephews, nieces, cousins, all of my family’s here in Sydney. My partner is from Sydney as well, so it makes the transition a little bit easier coming home and being around family for sure.”

Lussick will have his first chance to play in front of a true Panthers home crowd this Saturday when the Panthers take on Parramatta in the first Battle of the West of the season.

Lussick said he’s excited at the prospect of playing in his first western Sydney derby.

“Western Sydney football is massive. I grew up on the beaches, so rugby league is not as big as what it is out here,” he said.

“If I get on the field, it will be my first home game for Penrith. The supporter base out here and the rugby league community is massive, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Freddy Lussick made his club debut last week.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Dash to support Indi: Nathan and Ivan Cleary cut short celebrations of Penrith’s thrashing of the Roosters last Friday night to race back to Penrith to support sister and daughter Indi in the Stars of Penrith fundraiser. Indi ultimately won the dancing competition, with Nathan and Ivan (along with Bec Cleary, who was without question the leader of Indi’s cheer squad) there to celebrate the victory. All in all, it was a successful Friday night for the Cleary family!

Off the buses: I noted a couple of weeks ago that Panthers had discontinued its supporter bus for away games. It’ll be gone entirely next year when the Panthers return to Penrith Stadium, ending decades of the service being available for fans. For many years, passionate Panthers fan Annyta Adams has volunteered to coordinate the buses on game days – becoming something of a permanent fixture for bus regulars. Prior to the season starting, she was told her efforts were no longer required. Well done to Annyta on her many years of passion she put into making bus passengers feel part of a community.

Coach hits the road: Fresh from his side’s big win over the Roosters the previous night, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary headed north on Saturday to watch son Jett go around for the Warriors in the NSW Cup at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle. The Knights won 32-22, with Jett kicking three goals in the defeat.

Milky in Origin frame: There’s definitely some whispers around that Tom Jenkins could be in the conversation around State of Origin this year. His try scoring feats are certainly ensuring he gets noticed by the people who matter. The media is starting to get behind him too, with Panthers legend Mark Geyer agreeing Jenkins

wouldn’t be out of place in a Blues jersey on the Continuous Call Team last weekend. With Zac Lomax now out of the picture, you couldn’t rule out the surprise selection – especially if Jenkins keeps scoring tries. It would certainly complete a remarkable resurrection story.

A matter of metres: Building a stadium is no easy job, and even the smallest of intricacies matter. That’s proven in a recent modification to the Penrith Stadium plans, which will see the south-west light tower move 1.6 metres to the south and the south-east light tower move 4.5 metres to the north. The scoreboard at the

southern end will also move slightly, though it’s nothing of significant note. I wonder if the builders could give Phil Gould a buzz and see if he’s got the key for that storage shed he preserved the old, famous Panther scoreboard in?

Trees to go: Talking of stadium plan changes, 10 additional trees will be removed to accommodate changes to the original plan. It brings the total tree removal under the project to 22 trees. However, nature lovers don’t fret, a whole range of new trees are being planted as part of the overall stadium project.

is alive: Panthers legend Royce Simmons has been the victim of some cruel social media posts in recent days suggesting he has passed away. His wife even had to take to Facebook to declare the posts incorrect, declaring Simmons was still with us.

Panthers showbag: If you’re heading to the Easter Show this year, make sure you pick up the Penrith Panthers showbag. It’s $30 and includes things like temporary tattoos, socks, a cap, duffle bag and other Panthers goodies. It’s available at Stands 4, 16, 17, 18 and 20 in the showbag pavilion at this year’s show.

Mixed finances: Penrith’s 2025 Annual Report shows a dip in revenue from sponsorship, membership and merchandise sales – likely linked to the club’s temporary move to CommBank Stadium for home games. Other areas saw increases in revenue, so it wasn’t all

Spotted: Panthers forward Scott Sorensen soaking up last Friday night’s win over the Roosters with his kids on the Allianz Stadium turf.

Royce

Indi Cleary dances up a storm at Stars of Penrith.

PANTHERS POSTER

The Milkman always delivers

with Peter Lang Lang on League

Current leading try scorer

Thomas ‘Milky’ Jenkins is in the mix to finish the NRL season on top of the four-pointer mountain.

After three rounds he already has eight ‘meat pies’ to his name including a four-try haul against the Roosters last Friday night.

He’s also the ‘Cinderella’ story of the season after being left out of the side for the Panthers’ Finals charge last year.

‘Milky’ is the name on everyone’s lips and the club know that his popularity and positive play on the field is catching the attention of other NRL clubs.

And that’s why they’re not sitting on their hands waiting for him to score more tries. They want him out of the shop window as soon as possible.

It’s why Penrith officials are working hard behind the scenes to re-sign Jenkins on a multi-year extension as quickly as they can.

Don’t worry Panthers fans the club has no intention of letting Jenkins leave again, not if they have anything to say about it. However, a re-signing like this traditionally takes time especially with other clubs starting to sniff around.

All that aside, not in his wildest dreams would Jenkins have thought

this was going to be his reality when he left the Newcastle Knights only one year into a two-year deal.

In the press conference after last week’s match, Penrith coach Ivan Cleary spoke about the sacrifice Jenkins made at the end of the 2024 season.

“He actually came back… and handed back a year’s contract (to the Knights) – which he didn’t have to, but he did, just because he wanted to be somewhere where he was happier and that’s how he ended up back with us,” said Cleary.

“So, it wasn’t about money. That was a fairly brave, calculated decision by him. I think when he didn’t make the team (last year), I think the old ‘Milky’ probably would have kicked stones a bit; not in a bad way.

“But he never stopped believing in himself, and just the decision that was made. Ultimately, Paulie Alamoti played outstanding in the Finals. He (Jenkins) is just enjoying his footy and being at our club, and I think it’s showing on the field.”

and completes the team like a small piece in a bigger jigsaw puzzle. He’s always in position, he diffuses bombs better than a ‘bomb squad’ and his speed is deceptive because of his height.

Apparently, Jenkins has a few nicknames but ‘Milky’ is the one which seems to have stuck the most. He’s also more than happy to have it.

It’s always inspiring to see the ‘underdog’ for want of a better word, succeed as the message that it sends then gives hope to other players and people who may find themselves in a similar situation.

Thinking about Jenkins’ incredible comeback, a movie quote from Rocky Balboa comes to mind.

“The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it.

“You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t how hard you hit; it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.

“That’s how winning is done.

“Now, if you know what you’re worth, then go out and get what you’re worth.”

One gets the feeling that’s exactly what ‘Milky’ Jenkins is doing right

Thomas Jenkins is a try scoring machine. Photo: NRL Photos.

A bond like no other for the Alamotis

The bond of a father and son is a familiar story to any Panthers fan – we see it in the names of the Clearys and the Langs, and now the Liddiards – but there are quieter stories, like that of Paul Alamoti and his dad, that often go untold.

When asked who had the most influence over him and his career, Alamoti without hesitation said his dad, Soane.

“My old man’s definitely been there for me ever since the beginning just like every other kid with their parents and I was no different,” Alamoti explained.

“Everyone’s parent does everything they can in their power to give their child an opportunity to succeed and I was no different. My old man did everything for me and is always cheering for me.

“Now it’s good to see him just relax instead of trying to be a coach! He can actually just sit back and just enjoy being a father and just supporting me

every week.”

These days with the coach’s hat in the back pocket, Soane travels to watch his son play each week.

“[He comes to] every game and he does fly a fair bit,” Alamoti said.

“He loves the interstate games! It’s a chance for him to just switch off from work or get out of Sydney.”

As for Alamoti himself, his way to switch off from work is to get his hands on a controller and play video games.

“I’ve actually gotten back into ‘Fortnite’ which did go stagnant for a little bit but now I’m back on it,” Alamoti laughed.

“I’ve been playing it for a long time, so I hope I’m good!”

This year Alamoti has been off to a flying start, and he credits his game to a strong mindset.

“Discipline is definitely a big thing,” he said.

“It is a day-to-day basis and your performance on the weekend is just a byproduct of how well you prepared during the week.”

with Emily Chate

Coffee order: Oat caramel cappuccino

Cheat meal: Wings and Things in Bankstown

Favourite movie: ‘War Machine’ (although he prefers YouTube to movies)

Favourite musician: Rod Wave Who did you support growing up: Melbourne Storm Pet peeve: People who chew loudly

Favourite streaming service: YouTube

Paul Alamoti. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“They don’t change a lot, but why would you after you’ve won four comps and made a Prelim? They built a dynasty on doing the fundamentals better than anyone else does it.”

Cooper Cronk

THEY SAID IT...

“We got punched in the face and didn’t fight back.”

“Izack is a great kid and a great player. He’ll be back in first grade before too long no doubt.”

“Who

wouldn’t like me?”

“He has been an incredibly valued member of our organisation, and it’s been a privilege to watch his transition from a young player into the professional and respected athlete he is today.”

“You wouldn’t believe it, Mary Fowler, my sister, taught me a few tricks... that’s a one-off.”

“You know what I used to have the night before a game? A whole block of chocolate. I didn’t have the massive one, I don’t think they were around in those days.”