Overview

• The Penrith Panthers have dropped four consecutive games, including a 22-18 loss to the North Queensland Cowboys, marking their worst start to a season in 12 years.
• Nathan Cleary returned from a concussion but was unable to lead the team to victory, as the Panthers went scoreless in the second half despite several opportunities.
• Isaah Yeo's 250th NRL game was overshadowed by the defeat, which leaves the Panthers in the bottom four of the standings after five rounds.
• Key injuries, including Dylan Edwards' groin issue, and disciplinary setbacks, such as Izack Tago's sin-bin, have hindered the Panthers' ability to recover their form.
• The Cowboys capitalized on limited red-zone opportunities, scoring four tries with clinical efficiency, including a standout performance from Jaxon Purdue.