For years, the Penrith Panthers have said how their youth players will pave the way for the future of the club.
Now, with stars Matt Moylan, Bryce Cartwright, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and George Jennings, and an addition of experience with Jamie Soward, Peter Wallace and Trent Merrin, the Panthers are shaping up to be a very successful team over the next few seasons.
Although sitting seventh on the table with five wins and five losses, the Panthers’ biggest losing margin this year is eight points – a 30-22 loss in the first round against the Canberra Raiders.
Penrith have suffered some unlucky results too, including against the Cronulla Sharks where they conceded late to lose 20-18 at Shark Park.
The future of the Panthers is now looking bright and this excites most fans after struggling in recent times to make the top eight. With Moylan, a young standout in the Panthers squad, looking to stay with the club long term, other youngsters can only improve.
Another young star having an exceptional season is Cartwright. The second-rower has received a lot of praise for his hard work and dedication on the field for the Panthers. Cartwright also received a call-up for the City versus Country game, where he played exceptionally well. There is also talk of a possible State of Origin call-up for the Blues.
Now with the game at Pepper Stadium against the Gold Coast Titans, the Panthers are looking to extend their decent start to the season and try and cement that top eight finish.
With the belief in the team and the mixture of youth and experience, the Panthers are starting to believe that they can go far this season.
Where do you think the Panthers will finish up this season, Roarers? And is the youth coming through the development system key to the club’s success in the future?
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