Young Panthers edge out U21s

In a gripping encounter at BlueBet Stadium, the Penrith Panthers narrowly defeated the Storm Jersey Flegg side, securing a 22-16 victory on Thursday.

The Panthers were quick to make their mark on the game, with Jaxen Edgar, opening the scoring in just the fifth minute, giving them an early lead 6-0.

The Panthers continued their dominance, and just eight minutes later, Aston Warwick capitalised on a well-timed pass to crash over, extending the lead for the home side.

Storm struggled to contain the Panthers’ relentless attack, and in the 26th minute, Jett Cleary added to the tally. With Cleary’s try, Penrith looked in control, heading into the break with a commanding 18-0 lead.

However, the Storm came out of half-time with renewed energy. Matthew Hill sparked the comeback for Melbourne, bursting through the defensive line to score, giving the Storm a glimmer of hope.

Penrith responded swiftly, with Aston Warwick grabbing his second try of the match in the 51st minute, pushing the Panthers further ahead to 22-6.

The young Storm side's effort bore fruit in the 57th minute when Jack Goulding scored a try for the away side. The momentum seemed to be shifting in favour of the Storm, but the Panthers held their nerve.

As the game entered its final stages, Melbourne’s Matthew Hill scored his second try of the match in the 69th minute, reducing the gap to 22-16.

The Storm will look to bounce back against the Roosters this weekend on Sunday at Wentworth Park.

Written by Emily Mattocks.