Penrith grabbed the outright lead in the National Rugby League with a thrilling 30-24 win over last-placed South Sydney at Penrith Football Stadium.

Second-rower Joe Galuvao boosted his chances of making his international debut for New Zealand later this month with a hat-trick of tries for the Panthers.

Galuvao crossed in the ninth, 46th and 53rd minutes as the Panthers went two points clear of Brisbane at the top of the premiership.

The last time the Panthers had the sole competition lead was during their 1991 grand final-winning season.

Souths remain anchored at the bottom and should collect the wooden spoon.

Kiwis coach Daniel Anderson will later watch the video tape with interest as he prepares to choose his side for the July 25 Test against Australia at Aussie Stadium.

Galuvao played for Samoa in the 2000 World Cup but is eligible to wear the New Zealand colours.

His third try put the home side ahead 28-10 before Ryan Girdler added a 57th minute penalty goal to give the Panthers a seemingly unassailable 30-10 advantage.

But the Rabbitohs bagged tries through winger Luke MacDougall - in the 59th and 68th minutes - and Wise Kativerata in the 64th minute to trail 30-24.

Souths veteran hooker Jason Death was stretchered off the field in a neck brace early in the first half after positioning himself awkwardly in an attempted tackle.

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