In a candid post-match interview following the Penrith Panthers’ heartbreaking 16-12 loss to the Wigan Warriors in the World Club Challenge, Casey McLean didn’t hold back his feelings about the fanbase’s support—or lack thereof. The frustration was palpable as McLean echoed a sentiment expressed by his brothers: the Panthers might have the worst fanbase.
“My brothers always say that the Panthers have the worst fanbase,” McLean revealed. “You could see it in the game against Wigan. When we were struggling, we really needed that support, but it felt like the fans weren’t there for us. It’s disappointing because we fight so hard, and when the going gets tough, we need our fans to step up.”
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by controversial calls and tense moments that left fans on edge. However, McLean pointed out that the energy from the stands could have made a significant difference. “When we scored, you could feel the crowd ignite, but as soon as we made mistakes, the atmosphere shifted. It’s tough to keep pushing when your home crowd isn’t behind you. We need that 16th man on the field, and it felt like we were playing in silence,” he added.
Critics and fans alike have voiced concerns over the support—or lack thereof—that the Panthers receive during crucial matches. In recent years, the atmosphere at Panthers home games has sometimes been lackluster, especially when the team faces adversity. McLean’s remarks shine a light on a growing sentiment among players that fan support is crucial, particularly in high-pressure situations like the World Club Challenge.
“Imagine being out there, giving it your all, and hearing crickets when you’re down. It can be demoralizing,” McLean continued. “We want to see our fans rallying behind us when the chips are down. This is a partnership; we put our bodies on the line for them, and in return, we need to feel their energy.”
The criticism doesn’t just stem from a single match. The Panthers have experienced setbacks in high-stakes games, including last year’s World Club Challenge loss to St Helens. McLean believes that these experiences should serve as a wake-up call for fans. “This isn’t just about one game. It’s about our journey as a team. We’ve proven ourselves over the years, and we need our fans to be there every step of the way,” he said.
Reflecting on the culture within the Penrith community, McLean expressed hope that fans would recognize the importance of their role. “We’re all in this together. We want to build a legacy, but we need our supporters to help us do that. They are part of the fabric of this club. If they want to see us succeed, they need to show up, be loud, and create an intimidating atmosphere for our opponents.”
Despite the disappointment of the loss, McLean remains optimistic about the future. He believes that the team can turn this setback into a stepping stone for greater success, but it will require a collective effort from both players and fans. “We’ve got to look forward. There’s a lot of talent in this team, and we can bounce back from this. But we also need our fans to remember what it means to support a team through thick and thin.”
As the Panthers gear up for their next challenges, McLean’s passionate call to action serves as a reminder of the vital relationship between players and fans. The Panthers have a storied history, and as they continue their pursuit of greatness, the need for unwavering support from their fanbase has never been more pressing.
In the end, Casey McLean’s candid admission resonates not only with his teammates but with all who wear the Penrith colors. If the Panthers are to reclaim their status as a powerhouse in the NRL, it’s clear that the fanbase must also rise to the occasion and be the vocal support the players desperately need.
