I haven't seen a lot of Panthers footy this year due to life getting in the way (mostly highlights), so when I sat down to watch the game last night and saw the final team list, I was a bit worried.
We seemed so light on the bench.
I know Sorenson and Phillips have been playing in the middle, but they're not your typical prop in terms of skills, size etc.
But Ivan absolutely knows what he's doing. The mobility that the team has, and the ball handling skills that everyone in the pack seems to possess makes us unlike any other iteration of the Panthers.
I think what's most impressive though, is our desire, and our fight. Whenever a ball goes to ground, we're the team that pounces on it. And we're not just getting possession, we're actively looking to counter attack.
And I really liked the look of Freddie Lussick. I was pushing for us to sign him many years ago when he was on the outs with the Roosters. He's so different to Kenny, but still fits our game perfectly. The driving legs tackles, the early tackle kicks, and the heads up running game were all fantastic.
Notwithstanding injuries, 2026 is going to be an incredible year, we're so far ahead of the pack.