Panthers Suffer Second Consecutive Loss in 26-12 Defeat to Cowboys
The Penrith Panthers fell 26-12 to the North Queensland Cowboys on Saturday night. This marks the team's second consecutive loss, following a defeat to the Gold Coast Titans in Round 16.
Match Context
The Cowboys' victory coincided with veteran Jason Taumalolo playing his 300th National Rugby League (NRL) game. Despite the loss, the Panthers remain four points clear at the top of the NRL ladder. In other league results, the Warriors lost 26-24 to the Dolphins.
Post-Match Statements
Coach's Press Conference
Head coach Ivan Cleary gave a brief post-match press conference. When asked for his thoughts on the game, Cleary stated:
"I don't have many really, it wasn't great."
When asked if back-rower Isaah Papali'i passed his head injury assessment (HIA), Cleary replied:
"Ah, no he didn't pass it."
When asked if Papali'i would miss the Round 18 match, Cleary said:
"Correct."
Player's Comments
Halfback Nathan Cleary attributed the loss to issues including "lack of concentration" and "ball control" problems. He stated: "It's just probably lack of concentration, overplaying a little bit as well."
He added:
"It was disappointing because I thought once we went down to 12, that's probably our best period, which is saying a lot. We just lacked a bit of that hard edge."
He further commented:
"We're just killing ourselves, trying to force it a bit."