Panthers coach Ivan Cleary was quizzed on whether the majority of his first grade side would return after enjoying a week’s rest in Round 26.
“Yeah, we’ve got a plan. So we will just see how it goes,” he said with a wry smile after going down to the Bulldogs 28-4.
Cleary shocked the NRL world when his teamlist was unveiled on Tuesday, with 16 stars sidelined and Brad Schneider the only remaining player from Round 25 named.
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Penrith’s chances of making the top four were reduced to zero after a golden point loss to the Raiders, so Cleary made what many believed to be a bizarre call.
The Panthers will lock in a seventh-placed finish should the Roosters lose to the Storm, but could slump to eighth if Trent Robinson’s side win both remaining games and Penrith lose in Round 27.
Cleary’s latest response hints his decision could hinge on the result of the Tricolours’ clash with Melbourne.
Against the Bulldogs on Thursday night John Fonua, David Fale, Zac Lipowicz and Billy Phillips made their NRL debuts while Dias and Riley Price enjoyed club debuts.
Without their top talent, Cleary was of the belief his team’s performance was something to be proud of.
“I thought the boys did really well, I sort of threw them in the deep end really. They were coming off a five-day turnaround most of those boys,” he said.
“Yeah, I didn’t think a lot went our way either. Particularly that period where we lost Zac (Lipowicz)… I thought we handled that really well.
“Just right to the end really, defensively in particular. Just kept turning up for each other, and doing the very best they could.
“Very proud, it was a good week for our club.”
Cleary also explained this week’s jersey presentations were a special moment for the club.
“Going through the debut presentations the other day, just the stories that were coming out which we already sort of know,” Cleary said.
“But when you hear them again, it’s just amazing how everyone has their own story and the sort of guys you are talking about, have probably had false starts here and there.
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“Had to sacrifice alot… it means so much to them, it’s such a big deal finally getting a crack in the NRL.”
In his own post-match press conference, Cameron Ciraldo highlighted Daine Laurie’s performance for the Panthers.
Reports have emerged earlier this month that Laurie was informed by Penrith bosses his services were no longer required at the foot of the mountain.
However, Cleary’s latest comments could see the talented outside back’s time with the reigning premiers continue.
“He’s been a big part of our club, I’d certainly want to see him stay, love Daine-o and he was awesome tonight,” Cleary said.
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