
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has conceded the gap is closing between the NRL and Super League after Wigan denied his team a maiden World Club Challenge title.
A controversial second-half try for Warriors centre Jake Wardle, accompanied by a gritty defensive display, sealed the hosts a record-equalling fifth title in a 16-12 win at their sold-out DW Stadium, while again stopping the Panthers from completing their trophy cabinet.