The Penrith Panthers Holden Cup youngsters return to Pepper Stadium in a Battle of the West clash against the Parramatta Eels on Friday night. The Panthers have gone from strength to strength in the competition and they look primed to prove their surge up the ladder has been no fluke.
Coach Cameron Ciraldo has made a couple of changes to his starting line-up this week. Sam Elwin has been named at halfback and Soni Luke will pull on the number nine jersey. The remainder of the players have been rewarded for their form by keeping their spots on the team sheet. Shane Kiel is the 18th man.
The future of Penrith rugby league looks brighter than ever judging from the performance of the Holden Cup team this season. Set completions have been exceptional, astute kicking options from the halves have consistently put the Panthers on the front foot and team spirit was there for all to see against the Sea Eagles.
The rivalry between Penrith and Parramatta has always brought out the best in both clubs. This is the only time in 2015 the fans get to see the famous clash in Sydney. Tough football with plenty of passion and grit is going to be crucial to claim bragging rights and the Penrith youngsters can’t wait to give fans plenty to cheer about against the blue and gold.
PENRITH PANTHERS | Brent Naden ©, Fuimanu Enese, Jack Nelson, Maliko Filino, Christian Crichton, Dylan Edwards, Sam Elwin, Stanton Albert, Soni Luke, Moses Leota, Kaide Ellis, Corey Harawira-Naera, Tyrone May
INTERCHANGE | Paea Pua, Thompson Tuigamala, Oliver Clark, Cameron Collins, Shane Kiel.