The Panthers and Roosters have enjoyed a great rivalry since 1967, highlighted by an array of blockbuster matches – particularly in recent times.
Here’s the top five Panthers v Roosters games of all-time…
5. 2020 Finals: Panthers by a point
A Nathan Cleary hat-trick in the first half set up a thrilling Qualifying Final victory in front of a COVID-impacted crowd of 7,209 at BlueBet Stadium in October 2020.
The Roosters rushed to a 10-0 lead before the Panthers put the foot down.
When Stephen Crichton scored in the 48th minute to open up a 28-10 lead, the game appeared done; but three late Roosters tries set up a thrilling finish.
Penrith won 29-28.
4. 1967: A draw for the ages
The Roosters finished in the top four in 1967 and enjoyed a successful season, but newcomers Penrith certainly gave them a run for their money in Round 18.
On a Sunday afternoon at the Sports Ground, the sides couldn’t be split with Easts and Penrith playing out a 12-all draw.
David Applebee and Bill McCall scored the tries for Penrith.
3. 2003: Gowie delivers a miracle
Penrith looked anything but premiership winners in the opening two rounds of the 2003 season, going down to Brisbane and Melbourne in the opening rounds.
But what turned out to be an unforgettable season would get kickstarted in round 3, with Penrith producing a stunning 23-22 win over the Roosters at the SFS.
Craig Gower landed the match-winning field goal to ensure Penrith secured their first two competition points of the season.
2. 2014 Finals: Soward seals it
A crazy finish saw fourth placed Penrith defeat the first placed Roosters 19-18 in the opening weekend of the 2014 Finals.
The Roosters appeared to have done enough to win, leading 18-12 with four minutes left at the old Allianz Stadium.
But a miracle Dallin Watene-Zelezniak pass to Dean Whare saw the Panthers score late, before Jamie Soward delivered two pieces of magic: a sideline conversion, followed by a field goal.
1. 2003 Grand Final: Panthers take the trophy
In one of the greatest nights in the club’s history, Penrith claimed their second ever Premiership with an 18-6 win over the Roosters at Telstra Stadium.
Penrith led 6-0 at the break but the Roosters scored early in the second half to level the scores.
Tries from Luke Priddis and Luke Rooney would ultimately seal the win in wet conditions.
It’s considered one of the greatest Grand Finals ever played.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.