Penrith Panthers defeat Sydney Roosters in NRL finals opening week

The Penrith Panthers secured a win against the Sydney Roosters on Sunday in the first week of the NRL finals. The match, described as a difficult scrap for both sides, sends the Penrith Panthers into a rest week ahead of a preliminary final. The Sydney Roosters must now face the Cronulla Sharks on a six-day turnaround. Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary brought Isaah Yeo off the bench, a move identified as a turning point for the team's attack despite concerns over a ruptured pec. Nathan Cleary received a sin bin for a dangerous contact incident involving a kicker, leaving his availability for future matches subject to an MRC review. Meanwhile, the Sydney Roosters faced challenges in their lineup cohesion, with coach Trent Robinson acknowledging the impact of limited playing time for several starters, including Hugo Savala, who stepped into the five-eighth position.

• 8:38 AMZero Tackle NRL — Cleary’s deserved bin, Robinson’s enormous mistake, Yeo critical: NRL Finals talking points, Panthers vs Roosters