Penrith Panthers winger Thomas Jenkins showcased his extraordinary form once again, netting a stunning double in his team’s unexpected 32-16 defeat against the Canterbury Bulldogs.
With the struggling Bulldogs ahead 16-12 early in the second half, Penrith was desperately in need of a moment of brilliance to reinvigorate their challenge.
After a remarkable bootlaces try-saver from Luke Garner, Penrith faltered as hooker Mitch Kenny made a misplaced pass that landed on the ground during the last tackle. Paul Alamoti intercepted, feeding Nathan Cleary, who deftly kicked from the right flank across to the left.
Jenkins then executed a phenomenal leap over Marcelo Montoya to clinch his second try of the evening.
Thomas Jenkins soared above Marcelo Montoya. Nine
“He’s got his own shoes out West, Air Milky,” remarked Andrew Johns on Nine, referencing Jenkins’ upbringing in Boorowa.
Queensland coach Billy Slater was equally impressed, and he might find Jenkins challenging him in the Origin series this year. Slater praised the winger’s remarkable aerial skills.
“Look at that leap! He gets up there early, stretches fully at full speed, and still manages to take possession… that was an unbelievable try,” he noted.
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With his two tries, Jenkins has now scored a staggering six consecutive doubles this season, equalling the record held by Alex Johnston.
“He’s having an outstanding year,” added Slater.
Last week, Jenkins reached a total of 12 for the year with his two tries, marking the highest tally ever recorded across the first five rounds of the competition.
He now boasts 14 tries, sitting six ahead of Dominic Young and Sua Faalogo for the season.
The all-time record for tries in a single top-tier rugby league season stands at 38, achieved by Dave Brown.
Johnston tallied 30 tries in both 2021 and 2022.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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