Penrith’s era of dominance has sparked further debate regarding their standing in rugby league history, with a Parramatta legend claiming they wouldn’t stack up in the 1980s.
After securing a fourth-straight NRL premiership against the Storm last weekend, the Panthers are now undoubtedly the best team of the modern era.
The last team to win four premierships in a row were the St George Dragons, winning 11 consecutive titles in the 1950s and 1960s.
But according to Eels great Ray Price, the modern-day stars wouldn’t beat his team, who won three NSWRL titles in a row during the mid-1980s.
Ray Price and Mick Cronin after Parramatta’s 1986 grand final win. Getty
“Not a hope. They haven’t gone past us” he told The Daily Telegraph.
“I don’t think this Penrith side would beat my Parramatta side.”
Since those remarks went public, it has prompted a reaction from their western Sydney rivals as celebrations continue through the week at the foot of the Mountains.
In a cheeky Instagram story on Wednesday, champion halfback Nathan Cleary posted a photo of Price’s comments with an emoji accompanied by the song “You Wish” by Skepta.
Nathan Cleary took to Instagram to respond to Eels legends. Instagram
Cleary’s swipe comes after co-captain Isaah Yeo also brought up the quotes at Penrith’s official presentation night, explaining the mathematics of the situation.
“Four is more than three,” the lock forward said.
Yeo picked up the Merv Cartwright Medal for the club’s player of the year, capping off a stellar campaign that will see him captain Australia in the Pacific Championships.
