NRL 2023 Grand Finals: Penrith Panthers Beats Brisbane Broncos To Claim Three-Peat

In one of the most unforgettable NRL Grand Finals in history, the Penrith Panthers etched their names in the annals of rugby league by securing their third consecutive premiership with a thrilling 26-24 victory over the Brisbane Broncos.

The Panthers orchestrated the greatest comeback in NRL Grand Final history, erasing a 14-point deficit they faced against the Storm and clawing their way back from 16 points down with just 24 minutes left in the game.

This triumph catapulted the Panthers into a select group, joining the likes of the 1981-1983 Parramatta Eels as the only teams to achieve three straight premierships, solidifying their legacy as one of the NRL’s all-time great teams.

The driving force behind this historic victory was none other than Nathan Cleary, who nearly single-handedly altered the course of the match, guiding the Panthers to a stunning comeback win. Rugby league Immortal Andrew Johns declared that Cleary’s performance in the final 20 minutes ranks among the finest halves of football ever played by a halfback in a Grand Final.

“Cleary has just elevated himself into NRL immortality,” remarked Johns.

However, the Panthers didn’t earn their status as three-time champions by chance; they displayed unwavering determination and resilience throughout the game. Cleary took it upon himself to lead the charge, embarking on a crucial break before setting up Moses Leota for a try that narrowed the deficit to 10 points.

In the very next set, Cleary executed an extraordinary 40-20 kick on just the third tackle, affording the Panthers perfect field position. Seizing the opportunity, the Panthers capitalized with Stephen Crichton crossing the try line. Cleary then put the finishing touch on the most remarkable comeback in rugby league history on the sport’s grandest stage with an extraordinary solo effort.