On Friday night at BlueBet Stadium, the Panthers secured a significant 34-12 victory over the Rabbitohs, thanks to a standout performance by Sunia Turuva, who scored two tries. This win was particularly uplifting for the Panthers, who had been reeling from consecutive losses to the Raiders and the Storm.
Led by Isaah Yeo and Jarome Luai, the Panthers quickly gained control of the game. They started strong when Yeo broke through the Rabbitohs’ defense and set up a try for James Fisher-Harris in the ninth minute. Fisher-Harris then showcased his playmaking skills by executing a clever grubber kick, which allowed Luke Garner to score a second try for the Panthers.
The Panthers continued to dominate as Luai contributed to their third try by kicking the ball into the in-goal area, where his halves partner, Brad Schneider, scored to extend the lead to 18-0. The Rabbitohs managed to respond with a try from teenager Tyrone Munro in the 34th minute, reducing the deficit to 12 points by halftime. However, this momentum was short-lived as Turuva scored his 15th try of the season shortly after the break, pushing the Panthers’ lead to 22-6.
Turuva then completed his double just three minutes later. Luai made a brilliant play by sprinting downfield and delivering a perfectly timed pass to Turuva, who finished the move with another try. Despite the Rabbitohs’ efforts to close the gap, Munro intercepted a pass and raced 90 meters to score his second try of the night, bringing the score to 28-12.
As the Rabbitohs attempted to mount another offensive, Damian Cook’s handling error gave the Panthers advantageous field position. Keaon Koloamatangi was sin-binned for a professional foul after tackling Fisher-Harris without the ball during a chase, further complicating the Rabbitohs’ chances.
In the closing minutes, Panthers forward Lindsay Smith was put on report for a crusher tackle on Jye Gray, leaving him facing a possible review by the match committee. Despite this, the Panthers’ victory solidified their position as they climbed back to second place on the ladder with 38 points. Their standing will be closely watched, with the Roosters and Sharks both set to play over the weekend, adding to the competition for home ground advantage in the finals.
