Overview

• Brisbane overturned a 14-0 halftime deficit to beat Penrith 16-14, with Nathan Cleary unable to manufacture a late two-point equaliser.
• Scott Sorensen was deemed a category-one concussion by the NRL’s independent doctor after a head clash, barring his return despite passing a club HIA and rendering him ineligible next week.
• Coach Ivan Cleary called the decision a "huge call" as Penrith chose not to contest it and later insisted the club’s core remains strong for a renewed push in 2026.
• The comeback was built on fierce scramble defence and a powerhouse 80-minute display from Payne Haas.
• Brisbane will face Melbourne in the grand final at Accor Stadium on October 5, with the Storm listed as warm favourites on betting markets.