NRL Archives - Redcliffe Today

Dolphins vs Knights: Sudden-Death Clash to Determine Last NRL Finals Spot

The Dolphins will face a make-or-break clash against the Newcastle Knights this Sunday, 8 September, with the winner claiming the eighth and final spot in the NRL finals series. Dolphins vs Knights kick off 4:05 p.m. at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.

Read: Dolphins vs Capras: Redcliffe Face Elimination in Final Series Battle Against Central Queensland

Wayne Bennett’s strategy and pre-game speech pay off

After a commanding 40-6 victory over the Brisbane Broncos, the Dolphins now control their finals destiny as they prepare for this crucial away match.

Coach Wayne Bennett’s experience and tactical acumen was on full display in the Battle for Brisbane. Trai Fuller’s inclusion at fullback and the repositioning of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to the centres were particularly effective, while Jake Averillo impressed in his role in the halves.

Herbie Farnworth, who earned the ‘Battle Medal’ as player of the match, credits Bennett’s creative coaching for the team’s dominant performance.

Reports also suggest that Bennett delivered a stirring pre-match speech, igniting a fierce determination in his players that was evident in every tackle and try.

Tevita Pangai Jnr described Bennett as “pretty animated and pretty fired up,” adding, “Wayne has been in this situation before… It is pretty crazy what we did tonight.”

Dolphins vs Knights

As the Dolphins prepare for their trip to Newcastle, the team remains focused on the task at hand. Winger Jamayne Isaako emphasised the importance of the upcoming game, stating, “We will soak in (the win against the Broncos) and get back to the drawing board and refocus ourselves and look forward to Newcastle.”

In a significant boost for the Phins, Felise Kaufusi has been cleared to play in the final game of the home-and-away season.

The judiciary downgraded his dangerous contact charge from the Broncos match, resulting in a fine rather than a suspension—ensuring the Dolphins have a stronger squad for the encounter.

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With their finals fate hanging in the balance, the Dolphins are poised for what could be one of the most significant matches in their short history. A win would not only secure a finals berth but also mark a historic achievement for the Dolphins, who are aiming to make the finals in just their second NRL season—a remarkable feat for the competition’s newest team.

Published 04-September-2024

Dolphins Name Mark Nicholls Captain for High-Stakes Broncos Showdown

The Dolphins are set to face off against the Broncos this Saturday, 31 August, at Suncorp Stadium, with both teams’ finals hopes hanging by a thread. Mark Nicholls will lead the Dolphins in this season-defining Battle for Brisbane, stepping into the leadership role in Jesse Bromwich’s absence.

Read: Dolphins vs Broncos: Phins Face Crucial Battle for Brisbane in Race for Finals Berth

Mark Nicholls assigned captaincy

As the Dolphins prepare for this critical encounter, several key changes have been made to their lineup. Mark Nicholls assumes the captaincy with Jesse Bromwich sidelined due to concussion protocols, while Sean O’Sullivan moves from the bench to start at five-eighth, replacing Kodi Nikorima, who is also out due to the protocols.

Mason Teague returns to the interchange, boosting the forward pack’s versatility. Fijian international Kurt Donoghoe secures a bench spot for his first NRL game since round 19, while Lachlan Hubner is named as the 18th man.

Race for eighth

The Dolphins, sitting in 10th place with 26 points, are in a must-win situation to keep their finals hopes alive. They must defeat the Broncos and the Knights in their final matches to have a chance at sneaking into the top eight, reliant on the St. George Illawarra Dragons, currently in 8th place, to lose at least one of their remaining games.

Crucially, the Dolphins hold a significant points differential lead over the Dragons but trail the Broncos in this regard. Their path to the finals is narrow but still within reach.

The Broncos, equal to the Phins in points but with superior for/against, find themselves in a similar do-or-die scenario. The outcome of this match will likely eliminate one of these Queensland rivals from contention, adding extra intensity to an already fierce local derby.

Read: Paralympic Hero from Redcliffe, Brenden Hall, Embraces Final Games with Quiet Determination

The Dolphins enter this crucial fixture looking to reverse a concerning trend, having lost five of their last six matches. This slump has seen them slide from a comfortable position in the top eight to the brink of missing the finals altogether.

With their season on the line, the Dolphins must find a way to halt this downward spiral and secure a much-needed victory.

Published 29-August-2024

Dolphins vs Broncos: Phins Face Crucial Battle for Brisbane in Race for Finals Berth

In a season-defining derby, the Dolphins will face off against the Brisbane Broncos this Saturday, 31 August, with both teams battling for a crucial NRL final series spot. Dolphins vs Broncos kick off 5:30 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Tight race for eighth

As the regular season nears its conclusion, the Dolphins find themselves in a fierce five-way battle for the final position in the top eight. The Dolphins, currently tied on 26 points with the Broncos, Knights, and Raiders, are just two points shy of the eighth-placed Dragons.

The significance of Saturday’s derby cannot be overstated—a loss would almost effectively end the defeated team’s season. Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett knows that the team’s recent slump—winning just three of their last 12—must be halted immediately if they are to keep their finals aspirations alive.

After this derby, the Dolphins are set to face another top eight contender, the Newcastle Knights, away from home.

Dolphins vs Broncos

The potential return of hooker Jeremy Marshall-King from a foot injury that has sidelined him for seven matches could provide a crucial boost to the Phins’ lineup. His presence has been sorely missed during the team’s recent struggles, which have seen them concede 150 points in their last four games.

In more positive news, Dolphins centre Jake Averillo is set to make his 100th NRL appearance in this crucial match.

In their last encounter, the Broncos secured a 28-14 victory, unleashing a devastating second-half blitz with four tries in just 14 minutes. To avoid a repeat, the Dolphins will need to tighten their defence and sustain their intensity throughout the match.

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As the 2024 NRL season reaches its climax, the Dolphins find themselves at a crossroads. A win against the Broncos could reignite their finals push and potentially secure them a spot in the postseason in just their second year back in the competition.

Published 26-August-2024

Win the Ultimate Battle of Brisbane Game Day Experience and Support a Worthy Cause

The Dolphins faithful have a unique opportunity to elevate their game-day experience while contributing to a worthy cause. A charity raffle is offering fans the chance to win a premium corporate suite for 15 people at the upcoming Battle of Brisbane, all in support of Share the Dignity, an Australian charity combating period poverty.

Read: Redcliffe Eyes Future Growth with Comprehensive Urban and Transport Plans

The prize package for the Battle of Brisbane

The grand prize includes a corporate suite for 15 people at Suncorp Stadium, along with a gourmet food and beverage package, offering prime viewing for the Dolphins vs Broncos game on Saturday, 31 August.

Additionally, 50 double pass tickets are available for purchase at $99 each through the Share the Dignity website.

Moreover, the upcoming Dolphins vs Broncos game might be the most important Battle of Brisbane to date. With only two games left in the season, and both teams still fighting for a spot in the top eight, it is undoubtedly a season-defining match.

Industry collaboration

This initiative brings together several partners, including Ausbuild, a leading home builder across South East Queensland; Dynamic Bradview Roofing; Dolphins NRL; and Share the Dignity.

Ausbuild’s joint managing director Matthew Bell states, “We at Ausbuild are truly honoured to offer these prizes to the community, as it reflects Ausbuild’s commitment to enriching the lives of our residents and supporting meaningful causes like Share the Dignity.”

Share the Dignity founder Rochelle Courtenay highlights the significance of NRL’s involvement. “We are proud that a male-dominated sport is stepping up to help us to Share the Dignity.”

Why Share the Dignity matters

Share the Dignity works to provide essential menstrual products to women experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or facing poverty. The charity partners with over 3,000 organisations across the country to distribute these crucial items.

Share the Dignity has already distributed over 4 million product packets and over 800,000 bags filled with essentials to those in need, ensuring no one has to choose between food and menstrual hygiene. Visit their website to learn more about their cause.

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Mark your calendars and act fast—this is your limited-time chance to win big while supporting a cause that matters. The raffle closes on Monday, 26 August at midday with the winner being announced after 5:00 p.m. the same day.

Fans eager to participate can purchase raffle or double pass tickets through the Share the Dignity website here.

Published 24-August-2024

Dolphins vs Warriors: Phins Aim to Tame the Wahs in Playoff Push

The Dolphins return home this Sunday, August 11, facing a pivotal match against the New Zealand Warriors that could significantly impact the top-eight standings. With key players returning from injury and illness, the Phins aim to bounce back from their recent loss and secure a vital win in their playoff push. Dolphins vs Warriors kick off 2:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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The Phins lose in Perth

In their most recent outing, the Dolphins fell short in a high-scoring battle against the Roosters, losing 40-34 in Perth. The match was a back-and-forth affair that showcased the Dolphins’ resilience and offensive capability, overcoming an early 12-0 deficit to tie the game at 18-18. Despite a late push from the Phins, the Roosters managed to hold on for the win.

Dolphins vs Warriors

The Dolphins are set to host the 13th-placed New Zealand Warriors (8-11-1) in a critical encounter. The Warriors, currently 1-3 in their last four games, will be looking to improve their position, while the Dolphins aim to retake their spot in the top eight.

Kodi Nikorima is slated to return to the starting lineup after missing last week’s game due to illness. He will rejoin Isaiya Katoa in the halves, with Sean O’Sullivan moving to the bench. Tevita Pangai Junior and Jamayne Isaako are also named in the side, pending fitness tests.

The last time these two teams met was last May 26. The Warriors narrowly edged out the Dolphins in a close 24-20 contest.

After this match, the Dolphins face a challenging run to close out the home-and-away season. Three of their final four games will be played away, with their only remaining home game being the highly anticipated Battle of Brisbane against the Broncos.

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As the season enters its crucial final stages, each game becomes increasingly important for the Dolphins. Sunday’s clash presents an opportunity for the team to build momentum for the final push towards the finals series.

Published 06-August-2024

Dolphins vs Rabbitohs: Phins Look to Rebound Against Resurgent South Sydney

The Dolphins aim to halt their recent slide as they host the in-form South Sydney Rabbitohs in the Round 19 clash this Thursday, July 11. Dolphins vs Rabbitohs kick off 7:50 p.m. at Kayo Stadium.

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Dolphins vs Rabbitohs

Coming off a bye week, the Dolphins face significant lineup changes as they prepare to tackle the Rabbitohs. Head coach Wayne Bennett has been forced to reshuffle his pack due to injuries and suspensions. Max Plath steps into the crucial hooker role, filling in for the sidelined Jeremy Marshall-King.

In a milestone match, Kenny Bromwich will make his 250th NRL appearance, slotting into the lock position.

The Dolphins receive a boost with the return of Jack Bostock on the wing after clearing concussion protocols. The prolific try-scorer, with 11 tries this season, aims to bolster the team’s attacking prowess. Tevita Pangai Junior earns his first start for the club in the front row, while Ray Stone and Sean O’Sullivan return to provide impact from the bench.

However, the Dolphins will miss the services of Origin stars Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Felise Kaufusi, who are on Queensland duty for the decider.

On the other hand, the Rabbitohs enter the match riding a wave of confidence, having secured five consecutive victories, notching up 28 tries to 12 in those games. However, they too will be without key players, including captain Cam Murray (NSW Origin duty) and fullback Latrell Mitchell (foot injury).

Recent dip in form

The Dolphins are looking to reverse their fortunes after a challenging period. Their last outing before the bye week resulted in a 26-6 defeat to the St. George Illawarra Dragons. In that match, the Dolphins struggled with discipline, conceding nine penalties and losing players to injuries and a sin-bin.

Coach Wayne Bennett emphasised the need to reduce mistakes, stating, “We just lost our way. It was our mistakes, they had 26 sets in the second half to our 13 and nine penalties to our three, so you can’t play in the NRL with that many mistakes.”

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The clash between the Dolphins and Rabbitohs marks a critical juncture for both teams as they navigate through injuries, suspensions, and the absence of Origin players in their quest for a spot at the finals.

Published 09-July-2024

Dolphins vs Storm: Phins Chase Another Upset Against Table-Toppers Melbourne

The Dolphins will look to pull off another boilover when they host leaders Melbourne Storm on Friday, June 21. Wayne Bennett’s men are brimming with confidence after toppling the Sharks last round and need just one more win to match their inaugural season victory tally. Dolphins vs Storm kickoff 8:00 p.m. Suncorp Stadium.

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Injury boosts for both sides

While the hosts lose Queensland stars Felise Kaufusi and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to Origin duties, they regain Jesse Bromwich from a rib injury. Exciting winger Tesi Niu is also a chance to return from an ankle issue.

For the Storm, Trent Loiero is set to be released from Maroons camp to play, while Ryan Papenhuyzen could make his long-awaited comeback from an ankle problem.

Dolphins vs Storm

The Dolphins’ attack has been firing on all cylinders, scoring at least 20 points in their past six outings. Winger Jack Bostock has crossed for 10 tries in his last 11 games. As Bromwich is passed fit, Bennett’s pack receives another major boost.

Despite being without Maroons duo Harry Grant and Xavier Coates, Melbourne’s depth remains the envy of most clubs. Jahrome Hughes has been instrumental in nine of their 10 wins this season, while Nick Meaney has amassed 62 points in his last four outings alone. The returning Papenhuyzen would also be a huge addition.

One concerning stat for Dolphins fans is that Bennett’s teams have now lost 11 straight against Melbourne. However, this Dolphins outfit continues to exceed expectations and will fancy their chances of an upset on home soil.

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Jeremy Marshall-King extends

In a major boost ahead of the crunch clash, the Dolphins locked in a key part of their future by extending dummy-half Jeremy Marshall-King’s deal until 2028. The Kiwi international has been a revelation since joining the club and forms a crucial part of their long-term spine plans.

Published 19-June-2024

Dolphins vs Tigers: Round 4 Comeback Kings Face Off

Fresh off thrilling comeback victories, the Dolphins and Tigers turn their attention towards each other in a highly anticipated Saturday night clash. Dolphins vs Tigers kick off 4:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Dolphins, Tigers both comeback in Round 4

The Dolphins displayed remarkable resilience in last weekend’s match against the Titans. The Redcliffe outfit overcame a 10-0 deficit despite being a man down for 10 minutes after lock Max Plath was sin-binned for a hip-drop tackle.

Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett expressed his thoughts:

“You feel bad when you’ve just gone to the sin bin and you know your team is vulnerable but I couldn’t have asked them to respond any better than they did. Max Plath hasn’t got a dirty bone in his body, so it was never intentional, we don’t coach it, we don’t talk about it, but if it has gone wrong it’s gone wrong and we’ll just have to pay the consequences.”

Jack Bostock led the charge for the Dolphins, scoring a double and amassing 125 run metres and six tackle breaks. Fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow contributed two try assists, two line break assists, and an impressive 175 run metres. Their performances were pivotal in the Dolphins’ comeback victory and will be crucial against the Tigers.

Likewise, the Wests Tigers showcased their unwavering resilience with a late comeback to secure a thrilling victory against the Eels.

Justin Olam’s 94th-minute try roared the Tigers back to life, narrowing the deficit to 14-10. Jahream Bula tied the match in the 99th minute, and Tigers skipper Apisai Koroisau gave them a two-point cushion with a late conversion. The Tigers held on to their lead to finish the game 16-17.

Dolphins vs Tigers, unfinished business

Tigers vs Dolphins 2023 — Photo Credit: NRL

The two teams most recently met in Round 25 of the previous season, with the Tigers edging out the Dolphins in a narrow 24-23 victory. The 58th-minute conversion by Koroisau proved to be the difference between the two sides.

The Dolphins seek to avenge that loss and continue their strong start to the season. With a bye week in Round 3, the Dolphins record sits at 2 wins and 1 loss. They have the league’s second-highest points differential, trailing only the 2-2 Sydney Roosters.

Redcliffe will undoubtedly be motivated to settle the score and assert their dominance on home soil.

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The team’s resilience, demonstrated against the Titans, will be crucial as they prepare for another tough battle against the Tigers.

Published 02-April-2024

Dolphins vs Cowboys: Captain Jesse Bromwich Discusses Lineup Choices

Dolphins Captain Jesse Bromwich provides insights into the selections for the opening round of the NRL season, with Tesi Niu, Kodi Nikorima, and Max Plath securing spots.

The Dolphins’ round one clash against the Cowboys kicks off at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday, March 10 at Suncorp Stadium.

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Jesse Bromwich provides his insights

Bromwich praises Tesi Niu’s determination and impressive pre-season efforts, which have earned him a place in the starting side. “He’s impressed not only the coaching staff but all the players as well – the determination to get those things done,” Bromwich says.

Kodi Nikorima’s utility and consistent performances last season have secured his spot, according to the captain. “He fixed a lot of positions for us last year and he’s another one… he’s had a really good pre-season.”

Bromwich also commends Nikorima’s leadership qualities, noting his willingness to share his knowledge with younger players.

Max Plath’s versatility and exceptional work ethic during the pre-season have earned him a place in Bennett’s side. Bromwich likens Plath’s style of play to Tom Gilbert, praising his energetic approach and ability to link the backs and forwards.

Sights set on another strong start

Bromwich, who plans to retire at the end of the season, has never lost a round one game in his NRL career. The skipper is is keen to maintain that record against the Cowboys.

He expects a similar level never-give-up attitude from the team that propelled them to a strong inaugural season.

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The Dolphins captain is also looking forward to the continued support from the fans, recalling the energy and enthusiasm they brought to the stands last season.

Published 07-March-2024

Redcliffe State High School Stars John Fineanganofo and Aholoka Toia Join NRL Dolphins

John Fineanganofo and Aholoka Toia — two standout players from Redcliffe State High School — have signed with the NRL Dolphins. This comes after impressive performances in Redcliffe’s Meninga Cup premiership triumph.

John Fineanganofo: Meninga Cup Standout

John Fineanganofo was one of the most influential players in the Meninga Cup last season, helping Redcliffe to the club premiership. The Dolphins academy signed the rookie five-eight or lock forward, who is known as a creative, ball-playing footballer who can easily play on the edge.

Aholoka Toia: Picture of Work Ethic

NRL Schoolboy Signings: Redcliffe State High School Stars John Fineanganofo and Aholoka Toia Join NRL Dolphins — John Fineanganofo and Aholoka Toia of Redcliffe State High
Photo Credit: Facebook/Redcliffe State High School Rugby League Supporters

Joining Fineanganofo at the Dolphins is fellow Redcliffe State High pupil Aholoka Toia. The midfielder may not be flashy, but coaches say he puts in a mountain of work. Toia was instrumental in helping Redcliffe win the 2022 Meninga Cup.

Slightly under the radar, Toia is now being rewarded for his tireless work ethic and continued improvement. He is the brother of 2022 Queensland U19 centre Rob Toia, who has signed with the Sydney Roosters.

Redcliffe State High School: An Up-and-Coming program

The two Dolphin signings highlight the young but growing rugby league program at Redcliffe State High School. Previous graduates include current Dolphins Josh Beehag and Nathan Watts, as well as NRL stars Josh McGuire and Daly Cherry-Evans. The program looks for disciplined, motivated students with a passion for the league.

2023 Dolphins Season

The Dolphins have made their debut in the NRL this season. Led by head coach Wayne Bennett and captain Jesse Bromwich, the Dolphins are chasing a playoff spot at the halfway point of the season. Embracing the challenges of being a new club, they are looking to grow and build a solid foundation for future success.

With the signing of Fineanganofo and Toia, the Redcliffe State program continues to build a pathway for aspiring NRL players. The Redcliffe faithful are eager to see the impact of these two home-grown stars at the highest level.

Published 19 July 2023