Penrith Panthers Win Las Vegas NRL Opener Against Sharks

The Penrith Panthers secured a decisive victory against the Cronulla Sharks in their opening match of the NRL season held in Las Vegas, showcasing Nathan Cleary's playmaking skills as he set up four tries despite being without key players. After a shaky start where the Sharks scored first, the Panthers rallied to take control, with Isaah Yeo and Liam Martin playing pivotal roles in the comeback. This match was part of a larger event that attracted 50,000 fans to Allegiant Stadium, marking the NRL's commitment to expanding its presence in the U.S. market through regular season matches until 2028. Meanwhile, the Canberra Raiders also enjoyed success, defeating the New Zealand Warriors 30-8, with standout performances from Seb Kris and Xavier Savage contributing to the team's dominant display. Both teams demonstrated the excitement and competitiveness of rugby league as they aim to win over American audiences. This season marks the beginning of the Panthers' quest for a fifth consecutive premiership title.