The Panthers faced Rotherham Titans for the first time, and after an evenly matched opening half, the squad delivered a dominant second-half performance to secure a convincing win.

FIRST HALF

The game began with early pressure from the Titans, who took advantage of a well-executed move down their back line to score the opening try. Panthers responded quickly: Thomas crossed for the first Panthers try of the day following good phase play.

Titans regained the lead shortly afterwards, capitalising on some uncharacteristic gaps in the Panthers’ tackling. But Finn J brought the score level at 2–2 with a brilliant interception in the middle of the field, sprinting 20 yards to touch down.

Momentum continued to build when Tylor scored try number three, finishing off a strong boss move orchestrated by Ed. From the restart, Archie sent a lovely kick deep, leading to a scrum that Panthers won cleanly. Although Titans intercepted the next backline pass, Finn was alert again, pouncing on another loose ball to secure his second interception try.

The Titans hit back with their third try, again stemming from missed tackles. They soon found an equaliser through Elliot—guesting for the away side in the first half—to bring the score to 4–4.

As halftime approached, Titans continued to press, but Panthers held firm. A well-won scrum provided quick ball, and sharp passing created space out wide for Enzo H, who showed blistering pace to outstrip the Titans’ defence and score.

Half-time score: Panthers 5 – Titans 4

SECOND HALF

After a tight first half, the second half belonged entirely to the Panthers. The introduction of Rory had immediate impact: within ten minutes he had scored three tries and the momentum had shifted completely.

Panthers continued to dominate both territory and possession. Strong carrying from Freddie set up field position that allowed George R to power over for another well-earned try.

Elliot, now back in Panthers colours, added to the tally with a superb boss-move finish — his strength proving too much for the Titans’ defence as he drove through and sprinted 20 metres to score. Further tries from Elliot and Rory rounded out the performance, sealing an emphatic turnaround from the first half.

Final Score: Panthers 13 – Titans 4

SUMMARY
A commanding second-half display showed what this Panthers squad is capable of when they settle, communicate, and work together. While the first half highlighted areas for development — particularly tackling accuracy and cleaner passing — the response after halftime was exceptional.

Plenty of positives emerged: control of the scrum, excellent squad depth, dangerous running from multiple players, and the coaches’ ability to rotate 24 players while maintaining momentum.

MAN OF THE MATCH – Ed

A huge shift up front all game. Ed’s powerful forward play, work rate, and leadership in boss moves made him a constant presence and a mainstay of the Panthers’ attacking platform.