Overview

• Penrith led 14-0 at halftime before Brisbane clawed back, with Xavier Willison’s late try and Adam Reynolds’ conversion proving decisive.
• Brisbane’s scramble defence held firm under sustained pressure as Payne Haas delivered an 80-minute masterclass with heavy metres and tackles.
• Scott Sorensen was ruled out by the NRL’s independent doctor for category-one concussion despite passing the club HIA, which Ivan Cleary called a “huge call,” and Penrith will not file a formal complaint.
• The victory sends Brisbane to the NRL grand final against Melbourne, setting up a contrast between the Broncos’ momentum-driven style and the Storm’s methodical approach.
• Despite the exit after a season that rebounded from last place at round 12, Penrith say their core remains intact for 2026, with only back-up halfback Brad Schneider departing.