History made! Cleary’s brilliance drives Panthers to thrilling third consecutive NRL crown
Rugby league fans will talk about the 2023 NRL Grand Final for years to come. On this very day, the Penrith Panthers etched their name into the history books by completing a stunning third consecutive premiership, a feat that few clubs have ever achieved. At the heart of it all stood Nathan Cleary — the halfback who turned what seemed like an impossible comeback into one of the greatest Grand Final performances ever witnessed.
The match was nothing short of breathtaking. The Brisbane Broncos came out firing and, at one stage in the second half, looked destined to spoil Penrith’s fairytale. Their attacking brilliance had the Panthers on the ropes, and many thought the dynasty was about to crumble under the pressure. But if there’s one thing this Penrith side has proven over the past three years, it’s that they thrive in the toughest of moments.
Cleary, calm under pressure yet ruthless in execution, took control when it mattered most. With the Panthers trailing by a significant margin, he orchestrated an incredible late surge. His pinpoint kicking, sharp passing, and fearless running stunned Brisbane and reignited belief among Penrith supporters. In those final 20 minutes, he turned the game on its head — scoring himself, setting up tries, and leading his side with an authority that cemented his place as one of the modern greats.
What made the victory even more remarkable was the sense of history hanging in the air. Winning one premiership is difficult. Going back-to-back is rare. But securing three in a row requires consistency, resilience, and an unshakable team culture. The Panthers proved they have all of that and more. Their blend of experienced leaders and explosive young talent has created a golden era that rivals the most dominant sides in rugby league history.
The atmosphere at Accor Stadium was electric. Tens of thousands of fans rode the emotional rollercoaster, from despair when the Broncos surged ahead to sheer euphoria as Penrith stormed home. By the final whistle, the stands erupted in a mix of disbelief and jubilation. Supporters knew they had witnessed not just a win, but a moment of sporting immortality.
Cleary’s performance will be remembered alongside the greatest Grand Final efforts of all time. He didn’t just guide his team — he almost single-handedly dragged them to glory when hope seemed lost. For his efforts, he rightfully earned the Clive Churchill Medal, capping off a night where he showcased leadership, skill, and a warrior’s mentality.
Beyond the individual brilliance, this triumph symbolized the strength of the Panthers as a club. Coach Ivan Cleary’s influence has been immense, instilling discipline, belief, and a winning mentality that has carried them through three successive campaigns. The bond between coach and son, Ivan and Nathan, adds another layer to the story, making this dynasty even more special.
As celebrations lit up Penrith and rugby league communities across the country, one thing became clear: the 2023 Grand Final wasn’t just another victory. It was a defining chapter in NRL history, a reminder that champions aren’t made in the easy moments, but in the ones where everything is on the line.
For Nathan Cleary and the Panthers, their legacy is now beyond question. They are not just winners — they are history-makers.
