I’m told there’s almost no doubt that Tyrone Peachey will find his way to the Panthers next season. After a rumoured mid-season switch back to Sydney failed to eventuate, it was thought the 27-year-old may stick it out on the Gold Coast, especially with a new coach in the mix for next season. But I’m told Peachey is still harbouring a desire to return to NSW next season and that Penrith remains the most likely destination.
The drums are beating louder and louder about the future of Reagan Campbell-Gillard at Penrith, with new rumours doing the rounds this week that Parramatta are planning to launch a bid for the front-rower. I told you some weeks ago that Penrith officials were uncomfortable with RCG’s huge deal at the club, which doesn’t expire until the end of 2024. The contract was signed off on by former General Manager Phil Gould, who agreed to a massive pay packet for the 26-year-old, who is currently coming off the bench for Penrith and has struggled to find his best form this year. Watch this space – I’m told there’s a very good chance the Eels will get their man.
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has been cleared of any wrongdoing over an incident involving referee Ashley Klein that reportedly happened in the tunnel at half-time at Panthers Stadium last weekend. After interviewing all the key players, the NRL said it was closing the matter with no action against Cleary.
Once again demonstrating their support of the community and great causes, St Marys Rugby League Club purchased 100 beanies from the Mark Hughes Foundation for their Ron Massey Cup, Sydney Shield and Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership teams, joining many rugby league clubs wearing their “beanies for brain cancer” last weekend.
Penrith has commenced a formal partnership with the Men of League Foundation in aid of those in the rugby league community who need a helping hand. The partnership will see Panthers players and staff help raise awareness about Men of League Foundation activities and assist with the delivery of wellbeing projects. The Men of League Foundation provides practical support to individuals and families in the rugby league community who have fallen on hard times. “Panthers has always taken great pride in its community programs so it’s a natural extension of that for us to have joined forces with the Men of League Foundation,” Panthers General Manager Rugby League, Matt Cameron said.
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg will be in Penrith on Friday to attend a special sportsman’s luncheon being hosted by Panthers Leagues Club. Comedian Steve Allison, Panthers 1991 Grand Final captain Greg Alexander and Fox Sports presenter Yvonne Sampson will also appear at the function. The luncheon is raising funds for the Men of League Foundation, Coonamble Rugby League Club and Gilgandra Rugby League Club.
Keep an eye out for some ripper deals at the Panthers Store in the coming weeks and months. It’s likely the club will be clearing out as much Classic Sportswear stock as possible ahead of their new partnership with O’Neills commencing next season.
Congratulations to Panthers winger Josh Mansour and his wife Daniella, who welcomed a new baby into the world this week. Andre Anthony Mansour was born on Wednesday morning. Mother, child and footballer are doing well.
Andre Anthony Mansour 💙
Born // 31-7-19 🦁
Weight // 3.580kg @danimansour_ you are amazing! pic.twitter.com/MMB5sQHtAl— Josh Mansour (@Josh_Mansour) July 31, 2019
Masked Panther
The Masked Panther is the most mysterious journalist of all. He has the inside word on everything happening in rugby league.