Storm Out for Revenge as Panthers Fight to Defy the Odds in Grand Final Rematch

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has no interest in dwelling on last week’s shock loss to the Roosters, as his attention is firmly set on Thursday night’s grand final rematch against the Melbourne Storm. The reigning premiers, who dominated Melbourne in last year’s decider, face a much stronger forward pack this time around, with the return of Nelson Asofa-Solomona from suspension and the addition of Stefano Utoikamanu in the front row.

Unlike last year’s grand final, where the Panthers controlled the middle and shut down the Storm’s playmakers, Melbourne is expected to put up a much tougher fight. The Storm has the added advantage of coming off a bye, while Penrith is looking to bounce back from one of its worst defensive performances in years. With star fullback Dylan Edwards sidelined due to injury, the Panthers enter the clash as $3.10 underdogs—a rare position for the four-time defending champions.

The Storm camp has been vocal about seeking redemption for last year’s grand final loss, a mindset Cleary understands well. After losing to Melbourne in the 2020 decider, Penrith used that disappointment as motivation for its premiership run. “It’s only natural to feel that way,” Cleary admitted. “But we have always respected the Storm, and playing them in Melbourne is one of the toughest challenges in the game.”

While some believe Melbourne’s new recruits have strengthened the squad, Penrith has had to adjust after losing key players Jarome Luai and James Fisher-Harris. Despite this, Cleary remains confident in his team’s ability to compete at the highest level.

The battle in the middle will likely determine the outcome, with Melbourne looking to improve on last year’s grand final, where only Eli Katoa managed to surpass 100 running meters. The return of Asofa-Solomona is a game-changer for the Storm, given his ability to create quick play-the-balls and provide momentum for the team’s spine. The powerful forward missed the grand final after receiving a five-game suspension in the finals series but has since avoided another ban despite a controversial hip-drop tackle in the Queensland Cup.

Panthers prop Lindsay Smith is ready for the physical challenge. “He’s a massive guy—strong, fast, and athletic,” Smith said. “You have to be mentally and physically prepared, or he can make you look bad.”

Although the Panthers-Storm rivalry is not the oldest in the league, it has become one of the fiercest in recent years, with Penrith overtaking Melbourne as the NRL’s dominant force. For Smith, playing against the Storm is a moment he’s been waiting for since childhood. “Growing up, you always knew beating Melbourne was special,” he said. “Going down there to play is a challenge, but the preparation stays the same.”

With both teams eager to make a statement, this grand final rematch promises to be another fiery encounter.