In a thrilling Dolphins vs Pride preliminary final showdown, Redcliffe has booked their place in the 2024 Hostplus Cup grand final with a nail-biting victory over the minor up at Cairns. Halfback Joshua James sealed the win with a clutch field goal in golden point, sending Dolphins fans into jubilation.
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Early momentum for the Dolphins; second-half drama
The Dolphins struck early when dynamic fullback Trai Fuller powered through to score in the fifth minute. Northern Pride responded with a try from Evan Child, but a spectacular effort from centre Valynce Te Whare put Redcliffe ahead 10-6 at halftime.
The contest intensified after the break. Northern Pride levelled the scores and briefly took the lead, but the Dolphins fought back when Josh Kerr crashed over the line late in the game. Pride’s Will Partridge answered with a crucial try of his own, setting the stage for a thrilling golden point showdown.
In the extra period, Joshua James showed nerves of steel, slotting the winning field goal against the wind. This clutch play not only secured the Dolphins’ spot in the grand final but also ended Pride’s impressive home record.
Injury concerns loom large
Despite the thrilling win, the Dolphins have injury concerns heading into the grand final. Both Jarrett Boland and Trai Fuller left the field with injuries, and their availability for the decider against long-time rivals Norths Devils remains uncertain.
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Northern Pride coach Eric Smith, in his final game with the club, acknowledged the Dolphins’ performance and reflected on his team’s successful season despite the disappointing end.
Smith will take over as Redcliffe’s head coach next season, replacing Ben Te’o, who will return to the Brisbane Broncos after the grand final.
Published 16-September-2024
This pre-match article was published on 09-September-2024.
Dolphins vs Pride: Redcliffe Challenge Top-Seed for Chance at the Big Dance
The Redcliffe Dolphins are set to challenge the top-seeded Northern Pride for a spot in the Hostplus Cup grand final this Saturday, 14 September. Dolphins vs Pride kick off 2:10 p.m. at Barlow Park.
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Dolphins defeat CQ Capras
The Dolphins enter the clash with momentum, having secured a convincing 36-18 victory in their match against the Central Queensland Capras. This victory was particularly sweet, as the Dolphins had lost both of their home-and-awayn matchups against the Capras.
The team started strong, building a 24-point lead early in the game on the back of prop Josh Kerr, who crossed for two early tries. Young Tommy Casey, making his season debut, stepped up admirably at five-eighth, contributing to the team’s strong start.
Dolphins vs Pride
The third-seeded Dolphins (14-6 in the home-and-away ladder) will travel to Cairns to face the formidable Northern Pride, who finished the regular season with an impressive 17-3 record.
Despite the Pride’s dominance, the Dolphins have proven they can compete, having defeated the Pride 30-22 in their Round 5 encounter at Kayo Stadium.
Dolphins captain Max Bailey acknowledges the challenge ahead. “We got them once this year here at home, but it’s going to be a whole different game up there” Bailey states.
Bailey emphasises the importance of high completions and disciplined play against the Pride. The Dolphins will look to replicate their efficient performance from their previous matchup, where they capitalised on their chances despite trailing in possession and completion rate.
Bailey expresses the team’s readiness for the crucial match. “One more game until the big dance… we’re ready to go.”
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As the Dolphins prepare for their journey to Cairns, fans are hopeful that the team can replicate their earlier success against the Pride and secure a spot in the grand final.
