Two NRL heavyweights clash this Friday night as the Penrith Panthers host the Melbourne Storm in a 2024 Grand Final rematch.<\/p>\n
Matches between these two sides often feel like finals footy, but Melbourne have more immediate concerns right now.<\/p>\n
The Storm are looking to avoid three losses in a row for the first time since 2022 after falling to the Broncos and Cowboys over the past two rounds.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a big ask, because Penrith are the form team of the competition right now \u2013 undefeated, averaging 35 points scored per match and conceding just 7.5.<\/p>\n
The Panthers should win this. They\u2019re playing extremely well in 2026, with their forwards dominating through the middle and their backs finishing off the opportunities.<\/p>\n
Melbourne have shown a lack of composure recently, blowing double-digit leads in their last two matches, and Penrith will likely capitalise on those mistakes.<\/p>\n
However, games between these teams are usually tight, finals-style contests \u2013 the last five meetings have been decided by eight points or less \u2013 so don\u2019t expect a blowout.<\/p>\n
The Storm have leaked points in the second half across the past two rounds.<\/p>\n
Combine that with a match that should start physically and cautiously, and it\u2019s easy to see a lower-scoring first half before the game opens up later.<\/p>\n
Jenkins is on fire this season, scoring four tries against the Roosters in Round 3 after scoring doubles in the opening two rounds.<\/p>\n
The Panthers winger didn\u2019t score last week, which often makes him even more dangerous the following game.<\/p>\n
Melbourne\u2019s left-edge defence struggled against the Cowboys, and Jenkins should get opportunities again here.<\/p>\n