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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

Dolphins vs Knights: ANZAC Round Sunday Showdown

The Dolphins will be looking to continue their hot start to the season when they host the Newcastle Knights in the ANZAC Round clash on Sunday, April 28. Despite being without key players and head coach Wayne Bennett last week, the Dolphins recorded a dominant 44-16 victory over the Eels. Dolphins vs Knights kickoff 2:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Starting lineup unchanged

The Dolphins (4-2) have named an unchanged starting 13 from their win over the Eels, with Kurt Donoghoe’s return from suspension the only change to their 17-man squad.

On the other hand, Newcastle (2-5) is reeling from a heavy defeat at the hands of the Bulldogs, compounded by the loss of their captain Kalyn Ponga to a long-term foot injury. The star fullback’s absence is a massive blow for Newcastle, who have won only three of their past 10 without him.

Dolphins vs Knights

All eyes will be on the battle of the forward packs, with the Dolphins’ dominant engine room laying the platform for their high-scoring start to the year. They lead the NRL for average points scored at 28.3 per game.

Leading the back-line are the two wingers in Jamayne Isaako and Jack Bostock.

The two sides shared the spoils in their meetings last year, with the Dolphins winning in Newcastle before the Knights prevailed in Perth later in the season.

Making moves off the field

In other news, the Dolphins have secured Cowboys back-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki on a three-year deal from 2024, with the Ipswich Jets product returning to south-east Queensland.

Max Plath has also been rewarded for his impressive form with a contract extension that will keep him at the Dolphins until 2027.

These off-field moves further bolster the Dolphins’ squad as they continue to establish themselves as a force in the NRL.

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With both teams desperate for points, the ANZAC Round encounter is a must-watch. The Dolphins look to solidify their place in the top four, while the Knights aim to arrest their form slump and keep their finals hopes alive.

Published 26-April-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