Tag: rugby league

Dolphins vs Devils: Redcliffe Seek Seventh Title Against Dominant Norths

As the Redcliffe Dolphins prepare for the 2024 Hostplus Cup grand final against the Norths Devils, it’s shaping up to be a battle between history and recent dominance. Dolphins vs Devils kick off 5:30 p.m. at Kayo Stadium.

Read: Dolphins vs Pride: Golden Point Drama Sees Redcliffe Secure Grand Final Spot

Clash of rival titans

The Dolphins, under the guidance of coach Ben Te’o, are eyeing their seventh Cup premiership in what will be their 14th grand final appearance. Standing in their way are the formidable Norths Devils, led by Dave Elliott, who are vying for their fourth Cup title in five tries.

Latrell Siegwalt’s rise has fuelled the Dolphins’ momentum, earning him individual accolades and boosting the team’s championship hopes.

Alongside Siegwalt, captain Max Bailey and key forward Josh Kerr are vital to Redcliffe’s ambitions. Their performances will be crucial in clinching the club’s first title since 2018.

Dolphins vs Devils

The Dolphins have the historical edge with 34 wins to Norths’ 19, but the Devils have excelled in finals matchups, holding a slight advantage with three wins to Redcliffe’s two. One of those losses came in the 2022 grand final, where Norths defended their premiership, denying Redcliffe their first title since 2018.

Earlier in this final series, Norths again beat Redcliffe in the elimination final, forcing the Dolphins to secure an extra win to reach this grand final showdown.

Despite recent setbacks against the Devils, the Dolphins will have the distinct advantage of playing the grand final on their home turf at Kayo Stadium, where they’ve claimed six premierships.

XXXX Queensland City versus Country

The grand final day will also feature XXXX Queensland City versus Country matches in both women’s and men’s categories, highlighting the strong connection between community rugby league and statewide competitions.

Read: Supercross Icon Chad Reed Returns to Redcliffe for 2024 Championship

As the Dolphins prepare for this crucial game, fans are eagerly anticipating a display of skill, determination, and passion that could lead to a historic seventh Cup premiership for their beloved team. Will the Dolphins extend their record with a seventh title, or will Norths narrow the gap with a fourth Cup?

Published 20-September-2024

Dolphins vs Pride: Golden Point Drama Sees Redcliffe Secure Grand Final Spot

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.

Read: Pokemon GO: Redcliffe Peninsula’s Hidden Treasure for Trainers

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.

Read: 42nd Dorothy Banks Charity Day to Splash Redcliffe Golf Course in Pink

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

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.

Read: Flag-Bearing Brenden Hall Triumphs with Bronze, Australia’s First Medal in Paris Paralympics

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.”

Read: Redcliffe Embraces Sleepbus, Offers Refuge Amidst Homelessness Crisis

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.

Dolphins vs Capras: Redcliffe Face Elimination in Finals Battle Against Central Queensland

The Redcliffe Dolphins are gearing up for an elimination match against the Central Queensland Capras this Saturday, 7 September, following a setback away at Bishop Park. Dolphins vs Capras kick off 5:10 p.m. at Kayo Stadium.

Read: Flag-Bearing Brenden Hall Triumphs with Bronze, Australia’s First Medal in Paris Paralympics

Dolphins vs Capras

Despite a strong season record, the third-placed Dolphins face a formidable challenge in the Capras, a team that has repeatedly troubled them this year.

The Dolphins have traditionally dominated the Capras, with 14 wins and two draws from 16 encounters before 2024.

However, this season has been different, with the Capras delivering two of the Dolphins’ seven losses, including a surprising 20-6 defeat at Kayo Stadium on 11 May and a more decisive 38-10 loss away on 27 July.

Dolphins skipper Max Bailey acknowledges the team’s struggles against the Norths Devils in the preliminary final, emphasising the need for improved discipline and ball control. “We’ve put ourselves in the position to get the second chance though and we need to use that now,” Bailey said. 

“We just need to fix up our discipline.”

The Dolphins are banking on their strong home record this season to see them through this elimination matchup. “We’ve been really good at home this year,” Bailey noted.

As Redcliffe prepares for this critical encounter, they are aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Bailey knows that to reach the grand final, the Dolphins will likely need to win away from home again after the Capras.

Read: Redcliffe Embraces Sleepbus, Offers Refuge Amidst Homelessness Crisis

Will history prevail, or will the Capras complete the season sweep of Redcliffe? Tune in this weekend to find out.

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

Redcliffe Dolphins Land Coaching Coup: Pride’s Eric Smith to Lead Hostplus Cup Team in 2025

The Redcliffe Dolphins proudly announce Eric Smith as their new Hostplus Cup coach for the 2025 season, ushering in a pivotal shift in the club’s coaching dynamics. Smith, who currently leads the Northern Pride to success, will join the Dolphins when the pre-season kicks off in November.

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

Eric Smith, proven track record

Eric Smith brings a wealth of experience to the Dolphins, having held significant roles within the Melbourne Storm and Newcastle Knights systems at the NRL level. His coaching journey in the Queensland Rugby League includes notable stints with the Sunshine Coast Falcons and Brisbane Tigers. Most recently, Smith has guided the Northern Pride to this year’s Hostplus Cup minor premiership.

Redcliffe Dolphins CEO Scott Clark expressed strong confidence in Smith’s appointment. The team sees Smith’s transition to the Dolphins as a strategic move that will not only enhance their performance but also play a critical role in the development of players within the NRL system.

Ben Te’o returns to the Broncos

This appointment follows the announcement of current Redcliffe Dolphins coach Ben Te’o’s return to the Brisbane Broncos as an assistant coach for 2025. His departure opened the door for Smith to step into this role, continuing the cycle of coaching developments in Queensland rugby league.

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

As both teams prepare for the final series, the Northern Pride, under Smith’s current leadership, will face the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the qualifying final on 31 August. Meanwhile, the Redcliffe Dolphins are set to compete against the Norths Devils on 1 September, as they too push towards postseason success.

Published 24-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.

Dolphins vs Broncos
Photo Credit: Supplied

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.

Dolphins vs Broncos
Photo Credit: Supplied

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
Rochelle Courtenay, Share the Dignity founder. Photo Credit: Supplied

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
Photo Credit: Supplied

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.

Read: Redcliffe to Welcome Plunge Bathhouse and Recovery Centre

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.

Read: Headspace Redcliffe Marks 10 Years of Youth Mental Health Support

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 Titans: Phins Seek to Continue Dominance Over Gold Coast in Must-Win Match

The Dolphins face a crucial match against the Gold Coast Titans on Sunday, July 28, as they fight to keep their finals hopes alive. Following a tight golden point defeat to the defending champions, Wayne Bennett’s squad aims to cement their top-eight position against a Titans team facing challenges. Dolphins vs Titans kick off 4:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Bicentennial Milestone of Redcliffe: A Legacy of Exploration and Discovery

Golden point loss against Penrith

Despite losing 28-26 to the Penrith Panthers, the Dolphins showed they can compete with the league’s elite, leading for much of the game. They took an early lead courtesy of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s first-half double and Isaiya Katoa’s effort. Halftime came with the Dolphins up 18-12.

The second half saw the Dolphins extend their lead to 26-14, with Jack Bostock scoring and Jamayne Isaako adding a penalty goal. However, the Panthers mounted a comeback, capitalising on Josh Kerr’s sin-binning in the 74th minute to level the score and force a golden point.

Despite the eventual 28-26 loss, sealed by Nathan Cleary’s 42-metre drop goal, the Dolphins’ performance against the premiers has raised their stock considerably. Their ability to push the Panthers to the limit in enemy territory bodes well for their finals aspirations.

Dolphins vs Titans

The Titans, six points outside the top eight, enter the match after a loss to Manly, breaking a three-game winning streak that included a commanding 66-6 victory over the Warriors.

The Dolphins hold a perfect record against the Titans, winning all three of their previous encounters. Their most recent matchup saw the Dolphins overcome a slow start to claim a 30-14 victory, with Jack Bostock scoring his first career try double.

Currently sitting seventh on the ladder with a 9-8 record, the Dolphins have lost three of their last four matches. However, their competitive showing against Penrith suggests they’re hitting form at the right time.

The Titans, despite their recent struggles, boast a strong record at Suncorp Stadium, having won three of their past four games at the venue.

The matchup pits two experienced coaches against each other, with Wayne Bennett holding a 21-11 head-to-head advantage over Des Hasler. Bennett’s recent record is particularly impressive, having won his last six games against Hasler-coached teams.

Read: Redcliffe High School Alum Leaps from Local Track to Olympic Glory: Extraordinary Journey to Paris of Liam Adcock

As the regular season enters its final stages, this clash holds significant implications for both teams. The Dolphins aim to solidify their finals position in just their second NRL season, while the Titans look to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.

Published 23-July-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.

Read: Redcliffe Show Parking Made Clear: Resident’s DIY Approach Wins Praise

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.

Read: Redcliffe Roars with the World’s First Pier Double Backflip

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