It may just be the game of the round. This game was sold out over a week ago, filling the stadium at Bluebet to capacity. Panthers were on a winning streak, Parramatta had just lost last week in Darwin.
With both teams bringing their best to play, play they did. It was defensive and it was a close game.
There were concerns for Panthers player Viliame Kikau after he required treatment on his eye on the field. It ended up being minor and he continued to compete.
At halftime, the score was 10 all, with both teams trying to break the defensive line.
A penalty try was awarded to Eels hooker Reed Mahoney after he was held back by Panthers player Jaeman Salmon and the bunker viewed it, they agreed that he was held back and would have scored.
In the end, it was Parramatta who took the win, along with the status of breaking Penrith’s 21-game winning streak.
This is Penrith’s first loss on home soil since July 2019.
Full-time score Eels 22-20 Penrith.