Panthers Survive Thriller As Dragons End Nightmare Run
Maryam Tariq
Panthers vs Warriors Delivers Match Of The Round
Penrith and the Warriors produced one of the most entertaining games of the 2026 NRL season, with the Panthers holding on for a dramatic 20 to 18 victory at CommBank Stadium.
The match lived up to its top of the table billing as both teams played at an elite level. Penrith completed 92 percent of their sets while the Warriors finished at 89 percent, numbers rarely seen in such a high intensity contest.
The Warriors fought back from a 16 to 6 halftime deficit and briefly grabbed the lead at 18 to 16. However, Paul Alamoti crossed for the decisive try in the 70th minute to secure victory for Penrith.
Dylan Edwards and Casey McLean were among the standout performers as the Panthers extended their lead at the top of the NRL ladder.
Dragons Finally Break Their Losing Streak
One of the biggest stories of the round came in Brisbane where St George Illawarra stunned the defending premiers 30 to 26.
The Dragons appeared headed for a comfortable victory after building a 30 to 8 lead with just 12 minutes remaining. However, the Broncos launched a furious comeback, scoring three tries in 11 minutes and reducing the gap to only four points.
Despite the late pressure, the Dragons held on for their first victory of the season.
The result ended a painful 15 game losing streak and marked the club’s first win in 295 days. It was also interim coach Dean Young’s first victory since taking charge before Anzac Day.
Raiders Continue Strong Form
Canberra completed a successful afternoon by defeating North Queensland 26 to 12 at GIO Stadium.
The Raiders exploded early with a dominant first half performance. Seb Kris scored a double while Kaeo Weeks and Xavier Savage also crossed for tries.
Fresh from New South Wales’ Origin victory, Hudson Young and Ethan Strange carried their form into club football and played major roles in Canberra’s fifth win of the season.
The victory keeps the Raiders in touch with the finals race while the Cowboys slipped further down the standings.
Round 13 Shakes Up The NRL Ladder
Round 13 showcased everything fans love about rugby league. A top of the table classic, a long awaited underdog victory, and a dominant performance from a finals contender all unfolded within a few hours.
With State of Origin stars backing up and the competition entering its crucial middle stage, the battle for finals positions is becoming more intense every week.Sources: NRL.com / Daily Telegraph / News.com.au / Warriors.kiwi
