The Panthers proved to be too formidable for Newcastle, as State of Origin aspirants put on a display in their last auditions to secure a berth in Michael Maguire’s NSW side.
Sunday’s 26-18 victory came after Penrith put on a strong first half in front of a packed McDonald Jones Stadium and held off a quickly finishing Knights team.
Dylan Edwards gave Maguire a clear indication that he will be fit for game two after suffering a quad injury that destroyed his chances of making his Origin debut by making a vital tackle that saved Dane Gagai’s try and scoring the game-winning goal himself in the 64th minute.
After the game, Edwards refuted claims made by Brad Fittler of Nine that he is still having problems with his calf.
“He said, ‘I’m hoping I receive a call.
I’m ready to go with [my quad]. Doesn’t hinder me in any way. trained diligently over the week and arrived ready to go.”
After Edwards was sidelined for Origin I due to a quad injury, captain Isaah Yeo lauded his approach, saying he thought the fullback and Jarome Luai should be brought back into the team.
After the game, Isaah Yeo said of Edwards, “He was obviously extremely disappointed after he got diagnosed with the quad injury… but he did well tonight.”
“Most other people in that situation want to go home and hide away in their room with their family but he stayed with the squad.”
“Luai has done a fantastic job. He’s definitely settled into that seven spot this year [with Cleary out]. He is making wise decisions on when to pass, kick, and run.
“In this brief time here, he has been greatly needed, which has been beneficial. Because of his excellent running style and difficulty being tackled, he creates gaps for himself when defenders are worn out. This sets up opportunities for kicks.
“He’s got his hands on the ball a little bit more, so we are noticing it a little bit more.”
The halfback for Penrith, who continues to relieve the injured Cleary,
“Most other people in that situation want to go home and hide away in their room with their family but he stayed with the squad.”
“Luai performed a wonderful job. This year, he has firmly established himself in the seventh position [with Cleary out]. He is choosing his passes, kicks, and runs well.
“It has been helpful that he has been much needed in this short time here. His exceptional sprinting technique and inability to be tackled allow him to open up holes for himself when opponents tire. This creates openings for kicks.
“He’s got his hands on the ball a little bit more, so we are noticing it a little bit more.”
Penrith’s halfback, who keeps covering for the injured
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