Penrith star Bryce Cartwright is set to miss another week because of his ankle injury, compounding coach Anthony Griffin’s headache on the left edge.

Despite Cartwright being named earlier in the week, Griffin confirmed the 22-year-old had failed in his bid to be cleared for Friday’s clash with Newcastle at Pepper Stadium, stretching his side’s stocks.

James Fisher-Harris, who replaced Cartwright against the Sydney Roosters last week, is also out after suffering a fractured cheekbone.

After missing the last fortnight, Cartwright is now expected back for the following week’s blockbuster against Melbourne.

Tyrone Peachey is now likely to move into the back-row with Griffin having the luxury of bringing New Zealand international Peta Hiku into the starting backline.

The Panthers left edge will receive a workout from the Knights who have shrugged off their easybeats tag and after three rounds have the third most linebreaks (5 per game), according to Fox Sports Stats.

Asked if they had any weak links in their chain, following the loss of Cartwright and Fisher-Harris, Griffin said: “I thought last week, apart from that little period before half-time, our defence was pretty solid all game. I don’t see that being an issue.”

The Panthers lost few fans following their heartbreaking 14-12 loss to the Roosters last week but will be 1-3 with a loss to the Knights ahead of a tough road trip to Melbourne.

Griffin described Friday’s clash as a danger game not because they were mindful of their place on the ladder, but because the Knights were the big improvers this year.

“I think their three performances have been strong, they came from behind and nearly beat the Warriors and they handled the Titans and there was nothing in that game against Souths,” Griffin said.

“They’ve been very consistent, very strong, very competitive, their attack is very well structured.”

Griffin also confirmed skipper Matt Moylan would play despite being rested from a training session during the week.