Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has defended his unexpected decision to drop winger Paul Alamoti for Sunday’s crucial Western Sydney derby against the Parramatta Eels.
The call has raised eyebrows, given Alamoti’s consistent form this season. He stepped up significantly during Brian To’o’s injury absence, providing strong yardage carries and proving a reliable finisher on the flank.
Instead, Cleary has retained youngster Casey McLean. While McLean has shown attacking potential, he has also been criticised for instances of holding onto the ball too long and failing to pass to unmarked teammates.
This decision comes despite Cleary naming all his available State of Origin players to back up for the club game, indicating a focus on immediate results rather than long-term development. The Panthers currently sit last on the ladder with just three wins and a draw from 11 matches.
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When questioned directly about Alamoti’s omission on Wednesday, Cleary offered a succinct justification:
“I make the best decision for the team each week.”
Cleary also expressed hope that the energy and experience of Origin could spark a Panthers revival. Players like captain Nathan Cleary, Liam Martin, and Isaah Yeo are involved in the NSW squad.
“Put some weeks together, consistency, then you’re right back in the mix,” Cleary stated. “I definitely hope there’s a flow-on effect for us after that… I can only imagine there’d be nothing like it (Origin), just the energy and the build up, it would be pretty cool.”
The Panthers’ challenging schedule continues after the derby, with games against the third-placed Warriors and ladder-leading Bulldogs during the Origin period. Cleary downplayed the significance of ladder positions in a tightly contested season, suggesting it offered hope for a quick turnaround.
He also acknowledged the team’s struggles at their temporary “home” ground, CommBank Stadium, where they are yet to win this season (compared to their fortress at Penrith, currently under redevelopment).
“It seems like it by results, but it is what it is,” Cleary said regarding the stadium impact. “That’s our home ground and we play anywhere, anytime that’s in front of us.”
