Panthers’ Premiership Hopes in Jeopardy as Cleary Suffers Shoulder Injury
Penrith’s loss to Melbourne Storm marred by star halfback’s potential season-ending injury.
The Penrith Panthers’ premiership aspirations took a significant hit with the news that star halfback Nathan Cleary suffered a suspected shoulder injury during their 24-22 loss to the Melbourne Storm.
Cleary was forced to leave the field in the 67th minute after landing awkwardly in a tackle and clutching his left shoulder. The injury raised concerns as Cleary had previously dislocated his right shoulder in 2021, leading to surgery.
Coach Ivan Cleary expressed uncertainty about the severity of the injury, stating that scans would reveal more. However, he admitted that Cleary’s history and visible distress were concerning.
Cleary’s absence would be a major blow to the Panthers, who are currently in second place on the NRL ladder. The team will be hoping that the injury is not as severe as initially feared and that Cleary can return to action in time for their premiership assault.
Key Points:
- Penrith Panthers lost 24-22 to Melbourne Storm.
- Nathan Cleary sustained a suspected shoulder injury in the match.
- The severity of the injury is still unknown, with scans scheduled to determine the extent of the damage.
- Cleary has a history of shoulder dislocations, which adds to the concern.
- Panthers’ premiership hopes could be in jeopardy if Cleary’s injury proves to be serious.
In other news, James Fisher-Harris was placed on report for a lat hit on Storm halfback Jahrome Hughes, and Nelson Asofa-Solomona was sin-binned for a high tackle on Daine Laurie.
Melbourne’s victory secured them a top-two finish with three rounds remaining. Coach Craig Bellamy indicated that he may rest players in the final two rounds with the finals approaching.
