Bellamy expects tough test from Penrith

By News / Wire

Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy has heaped praise upon Penrith and says the Panthers are no longer the NRL’s surprise packets but genuine premiership contenders.

The Panthers have lost just once at home this season and on Monday night host a Storm side that has to beat Ivan Cleary’s side to maintain their push for a finals spot.

The Storm will move up to fifth with a win but defeat would leave them vulnerable in seventh spot on 28 points.

North Queensland and Parramatta have the same number of points and Brisbane, the Warriors and St George Illawarra all sit on 26 points with two rounds of the season remaining.

Two-time premiership-winning coach Bellamy is fully aware of the difficult task his side face and has been hugely impressed with how Cleary has turned Penrith around.

“It’s a huge challenge for us, they’re running third in the comp and they’ve not had an easy run of late either,” Bellamy said.

“They’ve got good depth and certain style of footy and everyone buys into it and sticks to it.

“They’re not going well because they are lucky they are going well because they are a good side.

“Their defence has improved from last year and the plan and structure they’ve got they are sticking to. At times it’s simple but simple is often the best.”

The Crowd Says:

2014-08-25T01:01:09+00:00

The Koomz

Guest


Penrith will be doing it for James Segeyaro who lost his dad during the week. RIP Iffi!

2014-08-25T00:09:20+00:00

Clark

Guest


This should be a great contest. If Penrith can win it will once and for all establish themselves as contenders and for Melbourne, a solid display will put them in good measure for another finals run.

2014-08-24T17:57:35+00:00

NRL the worldwide joke

Guest


Penrith in a close one for me.. the big three are getting on, come finals they will bow out early. Or not! ? !

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