Edwards closes in on Panthers No.1

Playing in his first game in 10 months, Edwards looked assured, safe and dynamic at the back as the Panthers ran out 28-8 winners in their NRL trial against South Sydney on Saturday.

Heading into 2019, the custodian role is the biggest headache for coach Cleary with Edwards and Watene-Zelezniak boasting strong claims for the coveted position.

Edwards looked to have the position sewn up until a shoulder injury curtailed his 2018, opening the door for Watene-Zelezniak to put his stamp on the jersey.

Watene-Zelezniak went on to captain and star for New Zealand in the No.1 in their end-of-year Tests against Australian and England, sealing his reputation as a blue chip fullback.

But with Watene-Zelezniak undergoing a scheduled knee clean up following his Kiwi duties late last year, it has allowed Edwards to get the drop on him.

Asked if Edwards will start their round one clash against Parramatta at fullback, Cleary said: "Most likely.

"Unfortunately Dallin's pre-season has been cut short after knee surgery.

"He's looking really good and we're still training with both in that position.

"At this stage Dal's not going to play next weekend and hopefully he'll be right for round one. But we're still trying to get some work into him."

Watene-Zelezniak is highly unlikely to take part in the Panthers' final trial, against Parramatta at home next week, and Cleary is intent on the side having continuity in their spine.

Edwards was among the stand outs in the Panthers' trial victory at Redfern Oval along with prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard.

Cleary, meanwhile, said he didn't expect to lose second-rower Viliame Kikau for an extended period of time after the budding Fijian star went down with a knee injury in just the third minute.

He ended the game with a brace on his right leg and will undergo scans on Monday.

"He looks like he's damaged his medial but I don't think it's too bad," Cleary said.

"We'll just have to wait and see."

Australian Associated Press