Panthers vs Eels: Battle of the West – Tickets, Family Fun & Gameday Info

March 24, 2026 Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor Entertainment

The Penrith Panthers and Parramatta Eels will face off in the latest installment of the “Battle of the West” this Saturday, March 28th, at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta. The rivalry, described as being about more than just competition points, centers on pride and bragging rights in Western Sydney.

Gates at CommBank Stadium are scheduled to open at 4:00 PM, with the NRL kick-off set for 5:30 PM. A NSW Cup match will follow at 8:00 PM. KWT Towing is the gameday partner for the event.

Fans attending the match will find a range of pre-game activities. The Westfund Kidz Korner, now located in the CommBank Stadium precinct outside Gate B, will offer poster making, coloring, games like Jenga and Connect 4, and photo opportunities with player cutouts. Inflatables and a DJ will also be present. Inside the stadium, face painters, airbrush tattooists, and meet-and-greets with the Pantherettes and Claws are planned.

Attendees can test their skills at the Turner Freeman Pass the Ball activation in the stadium precinct. A Panthers Foundation 50/50 raffle will offer a guaranteed $10,000 prize, with 50% going to the winner and the other half benefiting the Panthers Foundation’s community work. Picklebet will host the “Pickle Punt,” allowing fans to kick a football at a giant pickle jar for a chance to win merchandise or tickets to future games. This activation is for fans aged 18 and over.

A Panther Shop merchandise giveaway, sponsored by O’Neills Sportswear, will offer fans the chance to win up to $500 in vouchers by scanning a QR code. Fans are encouraged to bring or purchase Panthers flags to create a vibrant atmosphere. The CDC Charter Panther Buses will provide transport for 2026 members, while all ticket holders have integrated access to Sydney’s public transport network.

According to NRL.com, the Panthers enter the match with no reported injuries or suspensions. The Eels, yet, will be without J’maine Hopgood (ACL injury, expected return next season), Jordan Samrani (knee injury, expected return in Round 10), and Will Penisini (groin injury, expected return in Round 7). The Panthers team lists include Jack Cogger, Jaxen Edgar, and Kalani Going, while the Eels have added Araz Nanva, Brian Kelly, Jack De Belin, and Luca Moretti to their squad.

Recent form shows the Panthers winning their last three matches against the Roosters, Sharks, and Broncos. The Eels have also secured wins in their last three games against the Dragons, Broncos, and Storm. Match officials for the game will be Todd Smith as referee and Drew Oultram as touch judge, with Liam Kennedy serving as Senior Review Official.