The Penrith Panthers have made a significant change ahead of their grand final rematch with the Parramatta Eels. The Panthers have announced that they have appointed Ivan Cleary as their new head coach, replacing Anthony Griffin who was sacked earlier this season.
Cleary is a highly experienced coach, having previously coached the Wests Tigers, New Zealand Warriors and the Panthers from 2012-2015. He has a long history of success in the NRL, having led the Warriors to the 2011 Grand Final and the Panthers to the 2014 Grand Final.
The Panthers have been in a state of flux since Griffin was sacked in August. They have gone through a number of interim coaches, including Cameron Ciraldo and Steve Georgallis, but none of them have been able to get the team back on track.
The appointment of Cleary is a major statement of intent from the Panthers. They are clearly looking to make a statement in their grand final rematch with the Eels and they believe that Cleary is the man to get them back to their best.
The Panthers have had a mixed season so far, but they have been in good form in recent weeks and they will be looking to carry that form into their grand final rematch.
The Panthers will be hoping that Cleary can bring some stability to the team and help them to reach their potential. He has a proven track record of success and he will be looking to make an immediate impact at the club.
It remains to be seen whether or not the appointment of Cleary will be enough to get the Panthers over the line against the Eels. But one thing is for sure, the Panthers have made a significant change ahead of their grand final rematch and they will be hoping that it pays off.
