The Illawarra Cutters were defeated 19-18 by the Penrith Panthers at Collegians Sports Complex, Figtree on Sunday.
A game affected by torrential rain throughout meant that both teams struggled through the difficult conditions.
The Cutters were first on the board in the sixth minute after centre Charly Runciman found the try line.
Cutters halfback Michael Witt converted to make it 6-0.
However, Penrith hit back ten minutes later through Tom Humble.
Wes Naiqama’s conversion made it 6-all.
Only three minutes later, Panthers’ Kieran Moss scored to give the away side the lead.
Naiqama was again successful for a 12-6 Penrith lead.
Just prior to half-time, Illawarra hit back through prop Shannon Wakeman who crashed over.
Witt converted to tie the game at half-time.
In the 47th minute, the Cutters broke the deadlock with late inclusion Jack de Belin racing away to score for the home side.
Witt converted again to lead 18-12.
Yet on the hour mark exciting Fijian winger Eto Nabuli scored out wide for the Panthers to make it 18-16.
Poor discipline meant that Penrith were awarded a penalty in the 69th minute.
Naqiama made no mistakes with the penalty goal and tied the game up again for the third time in the match.
Panthers half-back Tom Humble proved the difference four minutes from time when his field goal sailed over for the win and the two points.
The Cutters were unable to hit back in the final four minutes as the Penrith Panthers a 19-18 victory over Illawarra Cutters.
Penrith Panthers 19 defeated the Illawarra Cutters 18.
Illawarra Cutters 18. Tries: Runciman, Wakeman, de Belin. Goals: Witt (3/3).
Penrith Panthers 19. Tries: Humble, Moss, Nabuli. Goals: Naqiama (3/4). Field Goal: Humble (1/1).
