This is how I see Penrith at the moment. The defense is still excellent and brutal. But this style is semi final like. You can't do it every week. That's why you need to be able to score points so can tone the defense down.
Yeo and Cleary where awesome. The best two players who make others look better then they are.
Edwards still playing at a high level as is Tago. I don't get the Tago criticism. Penisni is elite defensive and he stayed on him all game. He still ran for 200mtrs or close. Crighton got to attack Waqa and Waqa shut him down. I'm not sold on Crighton. Good in space or when you're owning the opposition but when it's tough and tight he isn't that effective.
Hosking's was very good. Ran hard. Much more potent then Garner.
Issue last night was Leota 40 mtrs, Garner 20mtrs JFH 80 mtrs. That's just not enough from your big men. Especially Leota who is a power runner.
Also To'o isn't making those bullocking runs as of yet. It was similar last season thou until mid year and he exploded.
As far as Api goes he is a huge loss. When Penrith role he used to jet off and catch markers out, get penalties or 6 agains etc. Kenny is dead set a lock forward. He has no creativity. Just passes ball. That's fine for 20mins to fill in but you need a hooker who can kick, run, throw the odd LBA and TAs. I don't see any of that in him. Reminds me of a guy we had called Matt Keating but atleast he could kick. Same initials which is ironic.
If have a spot open i'd go to market or promote a kid. I wouldn't waste my time with MK starting.
Joey Lussick at the Warriors would be a handy pick up.