Last Sunday, everyone could see Panthers coach Ivan Cleary had his Panthers team ready for anything the Bulldogs could try and dish up and it was just brilliant to watch.
The Bulldogs were actually put right back in their place. They have a long way to go before they are anywhere near the calibre of excellence Cleary has set in stone at the Panthers club.
His ability as a coach to steadily renew his playing stocks each year is something very special.
Over the past four years there have been a few players each year drift off to other clubs, and the Panthers recruiting system has replaced them with a minimum of fuss.
In some cases, the former Panther has not had the same impact at his new club. This is because Cleary also has another great skill surprisingly lacking in some other NRL coaches.
Understanding the balance between players is a skill. When recruiting, it is not just a matter of trying to entice a great player – more importantly is whether this new player fit your system? And will this recruit disrupt the chemistry or balance of the team.
Looking at how the Panthers have grown through this season, some would say Cleary has magic in his repertoire.
Sadly for the Raiders fans, the 32-12 flogging they received from the Sharks did not reflect their season, and I think coach Ricky Stuart and his Raiders will have taken that loss really bad.
But, I also believe Stuart will have them up there again next season.
But all eyes will be on the Storm up against the Sharks on Friday night and then the Broncos hosting the resurgent Panthers on Sunday.
None of these four teams are the type that just put the ball under the arm, shut their eyes and barge. They all play an exciting draw and pass type of game, so both games will be great to watch.
I’ll stick my neck out and say the Sharks and Broncos will prevail.
