Nathan Cleary stuns Brisbane Broncos with Grand Final flashback try
Nathan Cleary once again proved to be the Brisbane Broncos’ ultimate nemesis with a masterclass performance that left fans reeling and Suncorp Stadium stunned. The Penrith Panthers halfback was at his ruthless best in a commanding 32-8 win during Magic Round, delivering a performance eerily reminiscent of his 2023 NRL Grand Final heroics.
Cleary’s highlight came midway through the game when he produced a try that felt like déjà vu for Broncos supporters. Picking up the ball at first receiver on the left, he sliced through a scrambling Brisbane defence, stepping past Adam Reynolds just as he did in last year’s grand final decider. The move triggered flashbacks for many, with commentators and fans alike pointing out the uncanny resemblance.
“That’s grand final like, that was the last try of the grand final,” NRL Immortal Andrew Johns declared during the broadcast. Fellow legend Billy Slater echoed the sentiment, simply stating, “That’s identical.”
The moment sent fans into a frenzy online. One disheartened Broncos fan lamented, “Nathan Cleary will always own us. You don’t understand how much hate I have for that man.” Others quipped that Cleary was “renting space in the Broncos’ heads” and likened his dominance over Brisbane to that of Michael Jordan against his rivals.
Cleary wasn’t just scoring tries; he was involved in everything. From an early precision kick to a bruising tackle on Selwyn Cobbo, he set the tone from the outset. “He’s been a 10 out of 10 today,” Johns said. Panthers coach Ivan Cleary praised his son’s leadership, saying it was good to see him performing well as the team continues to find its rhythm.
On the cusp of State of Origin selection, Cleary’s timing couldn’t be better. Fox League analyst Braith Anasta summed it up best: “Cleary, he’s one of the greats. Today, he delivered.”
