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Epochal 2025 NRL Regular Season: Penrith Panthers vs Manly Sea Eagles Preview & Prediction
The Penrith Panthers’ road to redemption runs through a revamped Manly squad
By CBS Sports Staff | April 24, 2025
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – The Penrith Panthers are no strangers to pressure, and in 2025, it’s redemption, not repetition, that fuels their fire. After falling just short of a historic four-peat last season, Penrith enters their Round 8 clash against the Manly Sea Eagles with a chip on their shoulder—and a clear mission to reclaim NRL supremacy.
But standing in their way is a reenergized Manly outfit that has turned heads this season with explosive offense and a renewed defensive grit. Saturday’s blockbuster at BlueBet Stadium has all the ingredients of a modern-day classic.
Panthers: A Dynasty in Transition
The Panthers’ 2024 grand final loss still lingers, but head coach Ivan Cleary has been quick to refocus the squad. “That pain is our fuel,” he said during this week’s presser. “But we’re not looking back—we’re building forward.”
Gone are a few familiar faces, including veteran prop James Fisher-Harris, who departed for the Super League. But Penrith’s core remains intact: Nathan Cleary is orchestrating with renewed precision, while Dylan Edwards and Isaah Yeo continue to lead by example. The breakout star so far? Young back-rower Jack Cole, whose versatility has added a new dimension to the Panthers’ attack.
Sea Eagles: Reinvented and Rising
After missing the finals in 2024, Manly underwent an offseason transformation. Coach Anthony Seibold’s overhaul began with the return of Tom Trbojevic to full fitness, but it’s been the dynamic form of five-eighth Luke Brooks and breakout winger Lehi Hopoate that’s powered their resurgence.
Manly comes into this matchup with a 5-2 record, riding a wave of momentum after dismantling the Broncos last week. Their attack is humming, and their forward pack—anchored by Taniela Paseka and Jake Trbojevic—is matching it with the league’s best.
“We’re not here to make up the numbers,” said Seibold. “We’re coming for Penrith with everything we’ve got.”
Key Matchups
Nathan Cleary vs. Daly Cherry-Evans – Two master tacticians. One likely last showdown. Expect a chess match.
Tom Trbojevic vs. Dylan Edwards – Two of the most elite fullbacks in the comp. The winner here could decide the contest.
Middle Battle – The Panthers’ Moses Leota and Lindsay Smith must control the ruck or risk being overrun by Manly’s mobile pack.
Prediction
Penrith hasn’t lost at home in regular-season play since early 2023, and while Manly is flying high, this is a stern test. The Sea Eagles have the talent, but Penrith’s finals experience and defensive steel give them the edge—barely.
Score Prediction: Penrith Panthers 24 – Manly Sea Eagles 20
Expect fireworks. Expect drama. But most of all, expect a statement from two teams on a collision course with the postseason.
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