Stand-in Penrith captain Kevin Kingston says a freshly-strengthened club mentality is poised to turn around a disappointing NRL season.

As the Panthers chase back-to-back wins for the first time this year, Kingston believes the club’s positive reaction to the controversy that has swirled around the club over the past month, and a bye week bonding camp, can set them up for a run at the top eight.

The Panthers responded to Michael Jennings’ shock sacking in mid-May with a win over the Dragons. Two weeks later, they reacted to coach Ivan Cleary’s controversial decision to strip Luke Lewis of the captaincy over the State of Origin period, in favour of Kingston, with an upset win over premiers Manly.

“I think we have shown when the challenge has been thrown down in recent weeks, we have responded on the field,” Kingston said.

“Our effort has really been there, and our defence has really toughened up. The key has been our commitment to picking up the slack. It doesn’t matter who has been doing it but we have been doing it as a team.

“It is pleasing that that improvement is there and that we have been enjoying a couple of wins. Our defence has been something we have been proud of over the last couple of weeks, and that comes by pulling together as a team. But we know we have to keep getting better.

“It’s encouraging and we need to be consistent but, over the next month, we want to get that reputation (as tough defenders).”

The tough No.9 said their comprehensive 22-4 defeat of Manly and a good old fashioned bit of bonding during the bye week could kick start their season.

“The win over Manly was a real boost for us and, on the back of that, the bye week gave us a chance to get away to Kiama to reflect on things as a team and enjoy each other’s company up close and personal,” Kingston said.

“It’s not that often that you get the chance to do something like that and it is always a good thing.”