Eels forward Junior Paulo said despite losing the trial, the players were excited to get back to footy and were hopeful of a good start to the season.
“It was good to get a hit,” he said.
“We’ve still got a week and a bit to tidy up.”
Penrith crossed over for the first converted try in the 34th minute and the second less than one minute after the break to get the home crowd to its feet.
The Eels fought back in the 61st minute with new centre Tom Opacic crossing over for their only converted try but the Panthers quickly responded with another try.
Parramatta kick-off the season against the Brisbane Broncos on Friday, March 12.
