League legend Darryl Brohman has issued a caution to the Penrith Panthers, suggesting that their recent preliminary final defeat could have deeper repercussions for their future premiership ambitions than they realise. The end of their four-year dominance was marked by a heartbreaking loss to the Brisbane Broncos, occurring in the dying moments of the match. The disappointment hit hard; Nathan Cleary expressed a desire to avoid such a feeling in the future.
The Panthers’ path to the preliminary final was unexpected, given their standing at the bottom of the ladder earlier in the season. However, a mid-season revival changed perceptions, sparking hope among fans.
Despite coach Ivan Cleary’s assertion that the team still has potential, Brohman, a former Panther, is less optimistic. He expressed concern that their loss would have lasting effects, stating, “I think it is over.” He acknowledged the club’s strengths and coaching but believes recapturing their previous dominance will prove challenging. Brohman pointed out that the emotional toll of losing a chance to secure a fifth consecutive premiership could be more crippling than they anticipate.
He foresees a tough few years ahead for the Panthers, emphasising that while they have achieved remarkable success, the constant player departures—like Mavrik Geyer to the Tigers and Brad Schneider to the Dolphins—could undermine their competitiveness. With no players signed for the 2026 season yet, Brohman suspects they could lose more key players as the season unfolds.
While he acknowledges Nathan Cleary as a top talent steering the team, Brohman fears the Panthers might run out of steam. He suggests that their formidable legacy may not be enough to counter the shifts occurring within the league, making it harder for them to reclaim their former glory in the coming years.