Roar Guru
The Penrith Panthers head north of the Tweed as they look to press their finals credentials. Can they push further up the ladder or will the Brisbane Broncos secure a finals position? Join The Roar from 7:50pm (AEST) for live coverage.
The Brisbane Broncos are back in the winner’s circle after recording a 30-10 victory over Souths and will be hoping to get another when they host the Panthers.
Wayne Bennett welcomes Corey Parker back into the side after a suspension while Tom Opacic takes the place of the injured Jordan Kahu in the centres.
Anthony Milford and Ben Hunt have lost confidence this season after a golden point loss to the Cowboys in last year’s grand final. The pair must rediscover their talent and work together to produce scintillating plays if the Broncos are to be considered a serious premiership contender.
Milford holds the key to the trophy cabinet at Red Hill, if he can return to form it will inspire his teammates and see the Broncos become the threat that many predicted earlier in the year.
Anthony Griffin has made no changes to his side that defeated the Eels 22-18 in a thriller at the foot of the mountains.
Te Maire Martin is a chance to return from a shoulder injury however and could come back to haunt the Broncos after his memorable debut back in Round 3.
If Martin doesn’t return, however, Bryce Cartwright will once again be asked to carry the team in the halves.
The natural backrower has done a good job, although the Panthers’ attack has been limited due to his failure to recognise potential scoring options.
Cartwright needs to engage his forwards and get them rolling down the middle of the park to shut down the Broncos and put his side in good stead as the season comes to a close.
The two teams have met 31 times since 1998. Of those meetings, the Broncos have won 19 to the Panthers’ eleven with one being drawn.
Prediction
Brisbane to lock in a spot in the playoffs with a win over the Panthers.
Broncos by 12.
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You can find Riley on Twitter @rileypettigrew