Forget the halftime panel chat, get up to date on all the big talking points here.
In the Fight
The Panthers put on a solid performance in the first forty minutes, dominating possession, completion rates and field position for most of the game, while the Rabbitohs struggled to convert their attacking opportunities into points. But for all that, the Rabbitohs trail by just 8 points at the break, and were finding their feet in the dying minutes of the opening half. That aside, we’re set for a tight battle in the second half.
Errors in good field position
The Rabbitohs have been unable to capitalise on any positive field position in the first forty minutes, with multiple turnovers within the enemy red-zone. On multiple occasions the boys had the opportunity to build pressure or post points on the board, compounded further by a four pointer gone begging as a result of a forward pass. Effectiveness in enemy territory will be the only way the men from Redfern will turn the tables on the score board.
Kicks are killing us
Both teams have looked to sink the boot in during the first half, with Penrith proving more successful. Early on Cleary utilised Kikau in the sky to help set up the Panthers opening try, while poor communication has seen the odd bomb find the turf.
To add further salt to the wound, Luai set up Penrith’s second try through a perfectly timed kick for Stephen Crichton to score. If we can negate the boot of the Panther’s halves, we’ll go a long way to keeping them at bay.
When will the Jet take off?
James Roberts has occupied an unfamiliar role on bench for the duration of the first forty minutes. Wayne said earlier in the week during press that he felt it was important for James to get some football under his belt having not played since the season resumption. It will be interesting to see how Wayne will utilise the electrifying pace of ‘The Jet’ with the sides tiring late in the half. Look for Jimmy to enter the fray with about fifteen to play.
