Joey fumes as Panthers stripped of decisive try

Andrew Johns has lauded tonight’s tussle.

“That match was semi final, grand final intensity – probably just below state of origin level,” he said post-match.

“If you have a look at the stats, there was a total of 780 tackles made in the game. The closest match last week was the Roosters-Sharks which was an arm wrestle with 700.

“There were around 13 more sets of six in that game compared to last week, so the fatigue, and for Souths to stand up in the last seven minutes and win that game goes to show the fitness and the mental toughness of South Sydney.

“Without a doubt, those two teams will be there towards the end of the game. That was an amazing game.”