losing Fui and Hindmarsh on the cusp on the finals. They were our two best forwards. I don’t think that’s stated enough. I’d actually argue that 2007 was a bigger missed opportunity. We had a crazy good backline of Hayne, Inu, Tahu, Grothe all at the peak of their powers along with Peak Cayless, Hindmarsh and Fui.
2021 was a huge missed opportunity as well. Penrith were really busted but we just couldn’t land the killer blow. Even though we made the grand final in 2022 that team didn’t have the same defensive steel. I’d argue both of those teams (07 and 21) were good enough to go all the way.