Penrith have officially claimed their fourth minor premiership in club history after their 22-26 win over South Sydney on Thursday night.
Having finished on top in 2020 and second in 2021, The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio praised Penrith for their depth and consistency to continually compete at the top of the NRL ladder.
“That’s pretty special, it’s a huge achievement,” Riccio said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“I know some fans don’t really give two hoots about the minor premiership, they worry about the premiership, but I think it’s an indication about how consistently your football club is going not just in the NRL but throughout the entire club.
“You don’t win the minor premiership with the same 17 players, it’s about depth and your ability to promote and develop players.
“I think that speaks wholeheartedly to the Penrith Panthers.”
One depth player that stood out to Riccio was halfback Sean O’Sullivan, who filled in with aplomb following Nathan Cleary’s suspension.
“In particular I think Sean O’Sullivan has done a terrific job in the absence of Nathan Cleary, I can now see why the Dolphins were so keen to pick him up,” Riccio said.
“Everything I hear about Sean O’Sullivan from the Penrith Panthers, this guy’s footy IQ, it’s almost like a second coach on the field.
“Sean O’Sullivan is an indication you need depth to get that result.”
With two games remaining and top spot secured, Riccio understands if Penrith begins to rest players but has heard that star five-eighth Jarome Luai will return in Round 25 from his MCL injury.
“I could see why they would do it, for sure, ultimately, it’s to win the premiership,” Riccio said.
“Jarome Luai, I understand he’ll be back for the final round of the season.
“It’s going to be an interesting scenario for Ivan Cleary to play out over the next couple of weeks.”
Refuting resting claims, Penrith board member Greg Alexander confirmed that Luai would return to the team immediately once deemed fit.
“I think if Jarome is fit for the Cowboys game, he will play,” Alexander said.
“He’s probably recuperating a little quicker than first thought.”
Penrith face the Warriors and Cowboys in Rounds 24 and 25 respectively before embarking on their finals campaign.