**GROUND BREAKING: Penrith to Go from Bottom to Finals**
*History Shows Clearly Penrith Panthers Is Tough Enough to Recover and Make the Climb*
In a season full of unexpected twists, the Penrith Panthers have found themselves on unfamiliar ground—hovering near the bottom of the NRL ladder. For most teams, this would spell the end of finals hopes. But Penrith is no ordinary team. With a rich history of resilience and championship pedigree, the Panthers are poised to do what few teams can: mount a comeback and fight their way into finals contention.
It’s not the first time Penrith has been written off early in a season. In previous years, the Panthers have defied expectations and used adversity as fuel. In 2019, they stumbled early, sitting last after 10 rounds. Yet they rallied to win seven of their last 10 games. While they missed the finals that year, it laid the foundation for their 2020 breakout—where they went on a 17-game winning streak and made the Grand Final.
The core of that team still remains. Players like Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, and Dylan Edwards bring experience, leadership, and a winning mentality. Their recent form may be inconsistent, but their championship DNA runs deep. Add to that the guidance of coach Ivan Cleary, known for his calm demeanor and tactical mind, and Penrith has all the tools for a dramatic turnaround.
Injuries and Origin disruptions have taken a toll this year, but as players return to full fitness and combinations begin to gel again, the Panthers’ depth and class will become more evident. Historically, they’ve peaked at the right time, and with several winnable fixtures ahead, the ladder could quickly shift in their favor.
Most importantly, Penrith knows how to win when it matters. Their premiership runs in 2021, 2022, and 2023 showed that they thrive under pressure. They’re not just fighting to make the finals—they’re fighting to defend a dynasty.
While the road to the top eight won’t be easy, history reminds us that writing off the Panthers is always a mistake. If any team can rise from the bottom and charge into the finals, it’s Penrith. With grit, belief, and a winning culture, the Panthers are ready to turn their season around—starting now.
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