Sport
24 January, 2025
Liam Martin Primed for Another Shot at History as Panthers Chase Fifth Straight NRL Title
As the Penrith Panthers gear up for what could be a historic 2025 NRL season, one of their hardest-working forwards, Liam Martin, is more determined than ever to add another chapter to the club's golden era.
Fresh off an unforgettable 2024 season that saw him represent New South Wales in the State of Origin and win a fourth straight title with Penrith, Martin has entered pre-season training with the same hunger and drive that has made him one of the NRL's most feared backrowers.
With the Panthers eyeing an unprecedented fifth consecutive NRL title, the pressure is on. Penrith has redefined what it means to be a rugby league dynasty, with coach Ivan Cleary leading the team through an era of dominance. However, with a stacked roster, including some high-profile new recruits, high expectations, and the challenge of remaining at the top, the stakes have never been higher. Martin, though, has never been one to shy away from pressure.
"We’ve got a great group of guys here, and after what we've achieved over the last few years, we know we have the ability to do something special. But we also know it won't be easy. Every team will be gunning for us this year. We can't take anything for granted,” Martin said on his last visit to West Wyalong for the inaugural Martin Family Cup in November.
The 2025 season presents a rare opportunity in rugby league history for the Panthers to cement their place as one of the most dominant teams in NRL history. A win this year would see them become the first club since the St. George Dragons sides of the 50s and 60s to claim five straight titles. However, the team has undergone some changes, with a few fresh faces joining the squad and the challenge of maintaining their level of excellence through the rigours of another full season.
For Martin, it's about finding the right balance between maintaining his own form and continuing the relentless standard of excellence that Penrith has set in recent years.
Penrith's forward pack has long been one of the most formidable in the NRL, and with Martin's work ethic leading the charge, it's clear that the club is going into 2025 with the same fire that’s defined their success over the past few years. The Panthers’ success has been built on a strong defensive system, and Martin's work in the middle of the field is pivotal to maintaining that structure.
Penrith’s quest for a fifth straight NRL title is a unique challenge that excites Martin. The pressure of defending a crown, season after season, can often overwhelm teams, but Penrith’s ability to stay focused and hungry is what sets them apart. Martin has been part of this journey from the beginning, and he knows exactly what’s at stake.
“We’ve set the bar high, but we’re not shying away from it,” said Martin.
As the countdown to the new season continues, one thing is clear - Liam Martin and the Penrith Panthers are ready to make history. Bring it on!
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