Panthers secure top spot as blockbuster finals clashes locked in
Penrith have officially claimed the minor premiership, setting up a blockbuster qualifying final showdown with the Sydney Roosters.
After slipping as low as third on the ladder, the Panthers surged back into top spot with a dominant 38-10 win over the Wests Tigers on Sunday.
Tom Jenkins celebrates with Panthers teammates. Getty Images
It marks the fourth JJ Giltinan Shield for the Panthers in the past six years.
Tom Jenkins bagged a first-half double to go level with Alex Johnston as the NRL’s leading try-scorer for the year, producing two freakish putdowns in the corner.
After the premiership favourites raced to a 26-0 lead at half time, the Tigers wrangled back some momentum early in the second half, before Casey McLean slammed the door shut on any potential comeback with his second try.
The result finalises the top-eight and puts the Panthers back on a collision course with the Roosters, who defeated them just a few weeks ago.
A lot has changed since what many believe was the best game of the 2026 season, with Roosters halfback Sam Walker sidelined due to an ankle injury and Isaah Yeo back on deck for Penrith after overcoming a pectoral injury.
The second-placed Warriors will host the Dolphins at Go Media Stadium in the other qualifying final on Saturday. South Sydney will play Newcastle in the first elimination final, while the Sharks host the Cowboys in the other knockout game.
NRL finals week one schedule
Friday 7.50pm: South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Newcastle Knights, Allianz Stadium
Saturday 4.05pm: New Zealand Warriors vs Dolphins, Go Media Stadium
Saturday 7.50pm: Cronulla Sharks vs North Queensland Cowboys, Allianz Stadium
Sunday 4.05pm: Penrith Panthers vs Sydney Roosters, CommBank Stadium
