Will Chambers has reminded Penrith players he’s won three premierships to their none in the first sign that rugby league’s most famous acid tongue is back on his NRL return.
Just two games into his NRL return at Cronulla, Chambers did not let a 48-0 flogging stop his verbal jousting at Bluebet Stadium on Friday.
The former Melbourne centre could be heard telling Nathan Cleary to “worry about winning one of those (premiership rings) bro” during a stoppage late in the game.
It comes after Chambers’ Storm teammates ended the Panthers’ run of 17 straight wins in last year’s grand final.
“I don’t think it was at me,” opposite number Stephen Crichton told AAP.
“Nathan was just backing us up. We were just standing there and he was mouthing off for some reason.
“The boys were saying, ‘He just came back and he was saying he has done it all’.
“He has won three premierships already and we haven’t won anything.
“I guess it’s just the start for us at Panthers. But we’re only going to keep getting better and better.”
(Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)
Chambers was known for his inclination to sledge in his 13 seasons for Melbourne before leaving for rugby at the end of 2019.
Aside from the 48-0 scoreline, the Panthers clearly had the last laugh as they ran in four tries down Chambers’ edge.
The way the Panthers are playing, it seems only a matter of time until they are fighting off for the premiership jewellery he spoke about at season’s end.
Winger Charlie Staines scored a hat trick in the big win, while Crichton bagged one in the second heaviest defeat in Cronulla’s history.
Chambers’ sledges were taken in good spirits, with the 32-year-old veteran seemingly changing his tune on full time.
“He’s a good guy outside the game, I spoke to him after the game,” Crichton said.
“He was just saying we have talent that can go all the way and things like that. But he’s real cool off the field.
“I respect what he has done in the game.”
Cleary also said he had no issue with the sledges, after he could be seen laughing them off during the game.
“It was a bit of banter. He started talking, then a few of us returned serve,” the playmaker said.
“You have to respect everything he’s done in the game, he’s had a very successful career.
“It’s always good when there’s a bit of lip going around. It makes it pretty enjoyable.”
Matt
Guest
He didn't play that one
James
Roar Rookie
He was lucky to be in a great team that carried him to premierships. Melbourne supplement their star studded roster with average role players like Chambers. What a bore!
Paul
Roar Guru
you're probably right, though not getting to the GF is a disappointment, playing in the GF and missing out IMO is worse
Joey
Guest
Souths 3 straight prelim flops probably caused more scarring.
Joey
Guest
Cheating the cap didn’t impress no one. He also got plenty on Grand Final day himself. 40-0 needs no reminding.
souvalis
Roar Rookie
4 tries down his edge and he's lipping off. Looks, stands and plays like the NRL went by him many years ago.
Dutski
Roar Guru
Correct me if I’m wrong but 2012 and 2017 is two not three.
Paul
Roar Guru
I don't think Chambers would rub it in anyway, but the Panthers guys might remember what he said - if they don't win the GF.
mushi
Roar Guru
I doubt Chambers will be there to rub it in unless he buys a ticket
Forty Twenty
Roar Rookie
Could have been four titles if the overrated Will Chambers executed a simple pass to an unmarked Cooper Cronk not so long ago.
Paul
Roar Guru
Sledges like this start to hurt when sides that should win premierships, don't. Cleary and co can have a laugh now, but I doubt they'll be chortling in October if they're not raising a certain trophy.
Big Mig
Roar Rookie
He's got a point...3 premierships is impressive
Tony
Roar Guru
Don't lose them Will. Won't be any more coming. Actually, I'd be surprised to see him get another run after his inept defensive performance against Penrith.