Former Cronulla Sharks player Tyrone Peachey scored the match-sealing try as Penrith defeated the Sharks, 26-18, on Sunday at Pepper Stadium.
Peachey, the nephew of former Cronulla fullback David Peachey, scored the try with Penrith leading 20-18 to give his new club victory.
He came through the Cronulla ranks and played his share of NRL games before switching to the Panthers last season.
Cronulla led 18-12 at halftime but were unable to score any points in the second half with Penrith scoring all the 14 second half points.
The Sharks appeared to tire in the second half with Penrith dominating possession and field position.
They defeated premiers Souths on a heavy and wet field on Monday night at Remondis Stadium and seemed to lack zip in the final 20 minutes of the game.
It was obvious the physical affects of the earlier game took its toll.
Best for the Sharks was second-rower Wade Graham who never stopped trying in attack and defence.
Graham was once again deputising for regular skipper Paul Gallen who has been ruled out indefinitely with an injured gluteal and hip muscle. Gallen has been having extensive treatment in recent weeks for the injury and has another appointment with his specialist on Monday.
Gallen's injury rules him out of next Friday's Test match for Australia against New Zealand in Brisbane.
Veteran forward Luke Lewis playing his former club Penrith for the first time since joining the Sharks two years ago left the field after aggravating his troublesome left knee but returned after the half-time break.
Sharks backline stars, Valentine Holmes, Sosaia Feki , and Ricky Leutele scored ties and winger Michael Gordon landed three goals with the Sharks leading 18-12 at half-time.
Penrith 26 defeated Cronulla Sharks 18 (Valentine Holmes, Sosaia Feki, Ricky Leutele tries, Michael Gordon 3 goals). Crowd:12,798.
