The Panthers sent a statement to their NRL rivals by defeating the first-placed Bulldogs 8-6 in an instant classic at CommBank Stadium on Thursday.
The blockbuster showdown between the four-time premiers and this year's ladder leaders delivered in full, as the Panthers scored a win for the ages.
Nathan Cleary proved the difference with a piece of individual heroism, charging down a Matt Burton kick and streaking away to score the decisive try.
However, it was a mammoth defensive effort which earned the Panthers their emphatic victory, restricting the Bulldogs to just one first-half try.
Highlights: Panthers v Bulldogs
A fourth consecutive win ensures the Panthers place in the top 8 for another fortnight ahead of next week's bye and the ensuing Battle of the West.
The Panthers clash with the Bulldogs lacked in scoring, but certainly not excitement.
Each side produced a defensive masterclass, withstanding waves of red zone attack. The edge battles were particularly explosive, as Casey McLean and Izack Tago clashed with Stephen Crichton and Bronson Xerri, respectively.
More epic defence
The Panthers opened the scoring through a Dylan Edwards penalty goal in the 27th minute, but the Bulldogs snatched the first try soon after when a string of offloads opened the door for Jacob Preston.
The enthralling first half ended with a 6-2 lead to the Bulldogs.
The Panthers sprung to life at the beginning of the second half, but the Bulldogs goal-line defence continued to hold firm.
With point-scoring chances few and far between, Nathan Cleary took matters into his own hands.
After the Panthers pinned the Bulldogs in their own half with a resolute defensive set, Matt Burton looked to get his side out of danger with a long kick.
Heroically, Cleary launched himself at the ball for a charge down, before scooping up the loose ball and streaking away to score.
Charge. Down. Try.
Dylan Edwards' conversion nudged the Panthers ahead 8-6 with 25 minutes remaining.
The Panthers search for another try was repelled by the Bulldogs fantastic goal-line defence, taking the game down to the wire.
The Bulldogs pushed the Panthers to the final play, but the mountain men held on for a memorable victory.
Following their Round 18 bye, the Panthers return to action for the Battle of the West with a fifth consecutive victory in sight.
