Penrith’s resurgence in the 2025 NRL season has continued with a gritty and thrilling victory over the ladder-leading Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, edging them out 22-20 in a match that lived up to its blockbuster billing. In front of a roaring home crowd, the Panthers showed championship resolve, fighting back from a 10-point deficit late in the second half to seal the win in dramatic fashion.
The Bulldogs, who came into the clash riding a seven-game winning streak, looked in control for much of the match, with star halfback Matt Burton orchestrating attacking raids and keeping Penrith on the back foot. But as they’ve done so often in recent years, the Panthers found another gear when it mattered most. Led by Nathan Cleary’s calm leadership and Isaah Yeo’s relentless work in the middle, the reigning premiers clawed their way back into contention.
A try to Dylan Edwards in the 75th minute levelled the scores, before Cleary calmly slotted a sideline conversion to put Penrith ahead. The final minutes were tense, but Penrith’s defence held firm as they repelled one last Bulldogs surge. The win cements Penrith’s place in the top four and sends a strong message — the premiers aren’t done
yet.
