Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary’s season is over after suffering serious injury against the Newcastle Knights

Newcastle advanced to their first NRL Grand Final in 25 years with a 22-14 victory over Penrith at Accor Stadium. Despite playing with 12 men following Phoenix Crossland's send-off for a hip-drop tackle, Newcastle overcame a 14-6 halftime deficit to secure the win. The match saw Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary suffer a compound fracture and dislocation of his ankle in the tackle.

Cleary, who entered off the bench due to existing foot issues, was stretchered off and taken to the hospital. Penrith led through tries from Blaize Talagi and Lindsay Smith, but Newcastle responded with tries from Francis Manuleleua, Dom Young, and Sandon Smith to advance against the Sydney Roosters.