NRL superstar Nathan Cleary has etched his name into Penrith Panthers history, becoming the club’s all-time highest point scorer.
The 27-year-old halfback surpassed Ryan Girdler’s long-standing record of 1,572 points during Saturday night’s clash against the Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium. Cleary broke the record by converting Penrith’s second goal in a dominant 40-12 win.
Girdler, a former New South Wales and Australian representative, held the milestone since 2004, amassing his tally over 204 games. Cleary reached the mark in just 178 appearances, highlighting his consistent brilliance for the western Sydney powerhouse.
“It’s pretty cool, I guess,” Cleary told Fox Sports with his trademark humility.
The much-needed victory marked a strong return to form for the reigning premiers, who had lost their previous five matches.
“The Panthers have sent out a message to everyone out there – we are back,” declared Fox Sports commentator and league great Kevin Walters.
After a tight opening half that saw the score locked at 6-all near halftime, a try just before the break gave Penrith momentum. From there, they controlled the game.
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary praised his side’s response, especially given the team’s recent struggles and youth.
“We’ve got some young guys out there who are pretty inexperienced… trying to carry a legacy they didn’t create. The last five weeks have been tough,” he said.
“But the boys found their rhythm and remembered what it’s like to win.”
The emphatic result may just be the turning point the Panthers needed—and for Nathan Cleary, it was another historic night to remember.
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