While Panthers gamers aren’t strangers to the NSW enjoying squad, Fittler made a shock determination forward of Game III calling in a unique type of Penrith recruit.
Ivan Cleary, the mastermind behind the Panthers’ back-to-back premierships, was noticed coming into the NSW coach’s field within the minutes main as much as kick-off.
Flanked by assistants Paul McGregor and Danny Buderus, in addition to adviser Greg Alexander — Cleary took his place within the Blues’ management room.
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Speaking within the post-match press convention, Fittler was requested why the skilled coach was current.
“I just asked him if he’d come and sit in the box,” Fittler stated.
“I’m impressed with him the way he handles games and I thought he might be able to help tonight.”
A journalist then requested if Cleary had an impression on proceedings as NSW secured their first win of the 2023 collection with a robust efficiency.
Fittler confirmed Cleary gave him solutions throughout the sport.
“Yeah, absolutely,” Fittler stated with a wry smile.
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Freddy requested about Ivan in coaches’ field | 00:27
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“I asked him a lot of questions… and he came up with pretty good answers.”
In current years Fittler has opted to utilise a backbone of Panthers stars together with Nathan Cleary, Jarome Luai and Isaah Yeo.
Add in to the combo Liam Martin, Stephen Crichton and Brian To’o and 6 Penrith gamers featured within the collection opener.
But at Accor Stadium it was the Rabbitohs mixture of Damien Cook, Cameron Murray and recalled five-eighth Cody Walker than ran riot.
And Cleary was apparently one of many males pulling the strings.
Source web site: www.foxsports.com.au
