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Penrith’s unbeaten start continued with a 50-10 win over Melbourne, highlighted by Tom Jenkins’ record-breaking try streak.
Penrith have delivered a statement performance to open the 2026 NRL season, dismantling Melbourne 50-10 at CommBank Stadium and reinforcing their early premiership credentials. The result extended the Panthers' unbeaten start to 5-0 and continued a run that already includes a 26-0 win over defending premiers Brisbane in Round 1.
The match also produced a record-breaking moment. Winger Tom Jenkins became the first player in the NRL era to score at least two tries in each of the opening five rounds of a season. His double lifted his tally to 12 tries, the highest ever after five games.
Penrith's attack was clinical throughout, with Casey McLean again impressing in the centres. The 19-year-old finished with a try, a try assist and five tackle busts, strengthening calls for State of Origin selection with New South Wales. An injury to Bulldogs centre Stephen Crichton could further boost his chances of a call-up.
Melbourne, meanwhile, are under mounting pressure after slumping to a third straight loss for the first time in four years. The Storm also conceded 50 points in a match for the first time since 2003, a defensive lapse that historically places teams in difficult premiership territory.
Coach Craig Bellamy pointed to poor contact in defence as a key concern and indicated changes could follow if performances do not improve. The Storm are also dealing with disruption, with forward Tui Kamikamica sidelined after suffering a stroke, adding to their list of unavailable players.
Despite completing 94 per cent of their sets in the first half, Melbourne trailed by 20 points at the break as Penrith capitalised on nearly every opportunity. Tries to Liam Martin, Freddy Lussick, Jenkins, Nathan Cleary and McLean set the tone before the Panthers accelerated again late.
Penrith's depth was evident across the park. A sweeping move finished by Luke Garner, following an offload from Scott Sorensen, highlighted their attacking variety before Dylan Edwards and Jenkins sealed the result in the closing stages.