Stat Attack: Panthers v Storm

Author: Panthers Media
Timestamp: Thu 20 Aug 2026, 10:30 PM

The Panthers produced a strong all-round performance to defeat the Storm 22-14 at AAMI Park, racing to a 22-0 half-time lead before holding off Melbourne’s second-half fightback.

Brian To’o was the standout attacking threat, scoring a first-half hat-trick and finishing with 224 metres from 20 carries, three line breaks and eight tackle breaks. His three tries included a 60-metre intercept and his 100th career four-pointer, continuing an outstanding night on the wing.

BIZZA'S 100TH TRY

Nathan Cleary was influential across the park, finishing with two try assists, two line break assists and 636 kicking metres. He also converted three of Penrith’s four tries, while Lindsay Smith provided a try assist and line break assist to complement his 52 tackles.

Soak up this Lindsay Smith pass

Tom Jenkins was another key contributor with 191 metres from 18 carries and a line break, while Dylan Edwards added 172 metres from 20 runs and seven tackle breaks. Liam Henry backed up his try with 128 metres from 15 carries, a line break and 32 tackles.

Horse goes over

Defensively, Smith led the way with a game-high 52 tackles, followed by Freddy Lussick with 36, Liam Martin with 33 and Henry with 32. Scott Sorensen also made 30 tackles as Penrith stood firm during Melbourne’s sustained pressure in the second half.

The Panthers combination of early attacking precision, damaging carries and resilient defence proved enough to secure a 22-14 victory, with To’o’s hat-trick and Cleary’s playmaking again playing a major role in the result.