Dolphins fans will have plenty to look forward to on Friday night as their team take on the St George Illawarra Dragons in a must-win match for both sides. With just two competition points separating them, this Round 14 showdown could catapult the Dolphins into the top eight — a significant milestone in their push for finals footy.
Flying High After Belting the Bulldogs
The Dolphins roll into this game on the back of their most emphatic performance of the season — a stunning 44-8 win over the Bulldogs in Sydney. Missing key playmakers due to Origin duties and injury, the side delivered a ruthless display that showcased depth, unity, and serious attacking strike power.
Jamayne Isaako led the charge, racking up 20 points from a try and eight conversions, pushing his season tally past the century mark. Herbie Farnworth added another try to continue his six-game streak, while Jack Bostock and Harrison Graham also crossed in a match where nearly everything stuck. Kurt Donoghoe, who returned bravely from a nasty head knock, sealed the deal with a gutsy final try.
It was a statement win — not just for the scoreboard, but for belief.
Dragons Digging In — But History’s Against Them at Suncorp
The Dragons have also found some mid-season form, notching up back-to-back wins including a solid 20-6 victory over the Knights last weekend. However, their track record at Suncorp tells another story, just two wins from their last ten visits suggests this ground hasn’t been kind to them.
St George Illawarra will also be without hard-hitting second-rower Jaydn Su’a, ruled out with an ankle injury. Luciano Leilua will start in his place, while Christian Tuipulotu returns to the wing. Coach Shane Flanagan has managed to steady the ship in recent weeks, but the Redcliffe faithful know Suncorp is a different beast.
Match-Ups That Could Swing It
Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (Dolphins): The Hammer has an outstanding record against the Dragons, notching four tries in just two games. Backed by his trademark speed, he’ll be a danger every time he touches the ball.
Isaiya Katoa (Dolphins): The young playmaker continues to grow in confidence, with smart kicking and crisp passing key to unlocking defences. He’ll play a crucial role in controlling the tempo.
Ben Hunt (Dragons): The former Broncos halfback has the ability to turn a match on its head. With his kicking game and experience, the Dolphins can’t afford to give him time or space.
- Points Scored: Dolphins 44, Bulldogs 8
- Tries: 7 total — scored by Isaako, Farnworth, Bostock, Graham, Donoghoe, and more
- Tackle Efficiency: Strong across the board, with limited missed tackles despite personnel changes
- Completion Rate: High, reflecting discipline and focus under pressure
The Road Ahead
With Origin selections affecting line-ups and the competition ladder tightening, every match now carries extra weight. A win for the Dolphins at home would reaffirm their finals credentials.
Kristian Woolf’s men are beginning to find their rhythm, and if they can repeat their clinical showing from Round 12, they’ll be hard to stop.
For Redcliffe fans, Friday night isn’t just another round. It’s a chance to watch their team step up, right here in Queensland heartland.
Published 5-June-2025
