Penrith Panthers star five-eigth Jarome Luai has conceded his team had to dethrone the Melbourne Storm at some point to win the 2021 premiership – it has just come a weekend earlier than expected he says.

The Panthers were upset by South Sydney in Week 1 of the finals meaning they moved to the other side of the draw and a showdown with the Storm.

And despite being in the Queensland bubble, Luai believes the spirit of the Panthers fans can help them across the line on Saturday afternoon.

“The majority of our team are based in that area and we sort of grew up in western Sydney as well,” Luai told The Western Weekender.

“Every time we put on this jersey we feel like we are representing where we come from.

“We play with our area on our sleeves every weekend and we know they are behind us, so this one is for you guys.”

The Storm and Panthers kick-off this Saturday from 4pm.