Leading 18-0 at half-time against Canberra Raiders, the score could have been much closer had it not been for video referee Russell Smith, who made three dubious decisions.

But the Panthers were the best side on the park and deserved their 27-14 win.

Coach Matt Elliott found little to fault in defence or attack.

``There were features of our defence tonight that have been missing the last month,'' he said.

``But that's the nature of the competition. It's a marathon and to keep our high-energy defence going week-in-week-out is tough.''

Elliott said it was brave of captain Trent Waterhouse and Michael Jennings to back up from the State of Origin game three nights earlier.

``I was pretty keen to get out there tonight,'' Waterhouse said. ``I felt good and have been on a high since Wednesday night.''

Captain and coach agreed halfback Luke Walsh's efforts were instrumental in the win.

``He's made a massive difference to the side,'' Waterhouse said.

``He keeps getting better each week.''

The Panthers tackle North Queensland in Townsville on Saturday night.