Suncorp Stadium Archives - Redcliffe Today

Dolphins Make History with Record-Breaking Win Over Dragons

Dolphins fans were treated to a performance to remember on Friday night as the Dolphins crushed the St George Illawarra Dragons 56–6 at Suncorp Stadium — their biggest win in club history and the first time they’ve ever posted 50+ points in a match.

Fast, Ferocious, and Unrelenting

Despite conceding an early penalty goal, the Dolphins wasted no time taking control. Herbie Farnworth opened the floodgates, followed by a clinical finish from Jamayne Isaako, who then nailed the conversion. Kodi Nikorima and Connelly Lemuelu added to the onslaught, with Lemuelu scoring shortly after coming off the bench. Jack Bostock soared above the pack to add another spectacular try, sending the Dolphins into the sheds with a commanding 28–2 lead at halftime.

No Let-Up in the Second Half

The second half saw more of the same — intensity, speed, and clinical execution. Lemuelu bagged his second, Isaako crossed again, and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, true to form, tore through the Dragons’ edge defence for a double. Farnworth sealed the night with his second, taking the total to 10 tries.

Standout Performers

Isaiya Katoa: A commanding presence in the halves with two try assists, three offloads, a line break assist, and a pinpoint 40/20 kick.
Jamayne Isaako: Amassed 24 points with two tries and eight conversions — flawless from the tee.
Connelly Lemuelu: Made a major impact off the bench with two well-earned tries.
Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow: Continued to light up the backline with two blistering tries of his own.

Dragons Stumble in Suncorp Swirl

The Dragons struggled to find rhythm from the outset and were further disrupted by an early injury to winger Christian Tuipulotu, who limped off with a hamstring issue. Their lone bright spot came in the 64th minute when Sione Finau crossed for a consolation try — but it was far too late to shift the momentum.

Where It Leaves the Dolphins

The victory not only restores the Dolphins’ win–loss tally to 6–7, but it also catapults them into the NRL top eight. It’s a major psychological boost and a clear signal to the rest of the competition: this side is no longer building — they’re arriving.

Published 7-June-2025

Dolphins Charge Back to Suncorp for Crucial Clash with Dragons

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

Kaufusi and Marshall-King Return for the Dolphins to Take on the Roosters

Kristian Woolf will be looking for the Dolphins to bounce back from their loss last week against the Raiders, which interrupted their three match-winning streak.

The Dolphins looked like title contenders in the first half in Canberra against a strong Raiders outfit, 28-12 up at half time and seemingly cruising, the Raiders responded with five tries without conceding a point in the second half to
finish 40-28 in front.

Felise Kaufusi returns to the team, replacing the injured Daniel Saifiti in the front row. Jeremy Marshall-King also returns at Hooker though the Dolphins will miss Max Plath who failed a late fitness test.

The Roosters run out with the same side that won on Anzac Day.

Both sides have a three wins and five losses record but if the Dolphins can get close to their first half last week, surely, they would fancy this one.

The Roosters demolition of the Dragons, 46-18 at Allianz Stadium, was led by James Tedesco, who ran 230 metres and went over for two tries, Sandon Smith also scoring two tries. The Roosters had 10 line breaks (three from Tedesco) but the most impressive part of their game was the kick return, 305 m to only 107 m by the Dragons.

Looks like a real arm wrestle, the atmosphere on Caxton Street will be electric.

As well as the Steeden activation handing out brand new size three footies in exchange for any old sports ball (basketball, netball, AFL, NRL, football – any ball),
other activations at Suncorp include:

The Harvey Norman Hub
The Westpac Catch & Keep
Red Bull and Levels present
Youi Fan Cam & Sign Station
The Chemist Warehouse – Fan Run On and Tackle Course
The Telstra Trophy Zone
The Hisense Commentary Box

See more about the activations half way down this page.

If you can’t get to Suncorp, the Roosters vs Dolphins game will be broadcast live on Channel 9, Kayo and Foxtel. Kick off is on Friday, 2 May, at 8:00 p.m.

Dolphins v Broncos — The Battle of Brisbane

Dolphins fans will be desperately hoping that last season’s Round 26 “Battle of Brisbane” repeats itself, after a tough start to the reason that leaves them winless after three games.

The opening round loss was a tough arm wrestle with Issiah Tass’s 67th minute try cancelling the Dolphins lead after Max Plath went over to put the Dolphins ahead.

Last week the Phins led against the Wests Tigers 18-12 at half-time, a crucial easy goal kick was turned down in the second half “I allowed them to play some footy” said coach Kristian Woolf.

Max Plath led the tackle count with 45 whilst Herbie Farnworth ran for 209 metres, while making 8 tackle breaks and 3 offloads, leading to a try and an assist.

“It gives us something to get excited about”, said Woolf about the Broncos clash.

Surely re-runs of last year’s round 26 will be on the agenda, to gee the boys up.

Kevvy Walters’s team had not played their best footy at that stage but they were not ready for the marauding phins to rip them apart, 2 tries each from The Hammer, Herbie Farmworth and Jake Averillo with Jermayne Isaako starting the rout in the 13th minute.

The 4 tries in the first half despite Felise Kaufusi going to the bin in the 17th minute, though Xavier Willison also had a 10 minute rest on the sidelines after 30 minutes.

All five try scorers will start on Friday night at Suncorp, as Kristian Woolf puts out an unchanged 17 from last week.

The Dolphins Roundup: Niu Heads to the UK, Tabuai-Fidow Joins Kangaroos

As the 2025 preseason approaches, the Dolphins are juggling critical decisions on contracts, injury management, player moves, and international commitments.

Read: The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

Key negotiations for 2025

As Fox Sports reports, the club faces the challenge of securing key players before rival clubs make their moves. Second-rower Connelly Lemuelu, whose standout performances have been pivotal this season, is likely to top the list for re-signing, with his impressive form attracting attention across the NRL. Sean O’Sullivan’s strong finish to the season in the halves positions him as another priority for retention.

The Dolphins are also weighing contract options for experienced players Felise Kaufusi, Kenny Bromwich, and Mark Nicholls, who each bring veteran leadership to the squad. With Kaufusi potentially entering free agency after 1 November, the team risks losing his presence to competitors if a deal isn’t secured soon.

Dolphins players on the mend

The Dolphins’ medical staff have been diligently working to address various injuries within the squad. Jeremy Marshall-King and Kenny Bromwich have both undergone minor surgeries—Marshall-King on his knee and Bromwich on his elbow.

Lemuelu faces a significant challenge as he recovers from shoulder reconstruction surgery. Fullback Trai Fuller’s situation is more long-term following a successful knee reconstruction, while Tom Gilbert is steadily progressing in his recovery from an ACL injury.

Tesi Niu heads to the Super League

Tesi Niu’s confirmed move to the Leigh Leopards in the Super League for 2025 marks a pivotal change for the Dolphins’ backline. After making 17 appearances for the club in 2023, Niu faced growing competition in the backline with the arrivals of Herbie Farnworth and Jake Averillo, making an overseas opportunity all the more appealing.

Reflecting on his decision after winning the QLD Cup and the NRL State Championship, Niu told Zero Tackle, “I’m leaving for the UK, and to finish off like this, I couldn’t have asked for a better end.”

Leigh Journal captured the excitement surrounding Niu’s arrival, quoting Leopards’ head of rugby Chris Chester: “Tesi has played for two quality teams in the NRL… He’s a big, strong, athletic, and powerful rugby player who will excite all our fans in 2025 and beyond.”

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Dolphins on duty for the Pacific Championships

The selection of several Dolphins players for international duty in the Pacific Championships highlights the squad’s depth and calibre. Kurt Donoghoe and Mason Teague will represent Fiji Bati and the Cook Islands, respectively, as the sole Dolphins players in their teams. Jamayne Isaako and Kodi Nikorima are set to play for defending Pacific champions New Zealand, while Isaiya Katoa, Felise Kaufusi, and 2025 recruit Kulikefu Finefeuiaki join the formidable Tongan side.

Fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s selection for the green-and-gold cements his status as one of the NRL’s emerging stars. Hammer and the Kangaroos will first face Tonga on 18 October at Suncorp Stadium, followed by a match against New Zealand on 27 October in Christchurch.

Updated 25-October-2024

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins End Controversial Sponsorship, Address Rumours About Star Halfback

The Dolphins NRL club has terminated a controversial sponsorship deal amid regulatory hurdles, while speculation mounts over potential recruitment of St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt.

Read: The Dolphins Roundup: Niu Heads to the UK, Tabuai-Fidow Joins Kangaroos

Regulatory pressure forces sponsorship exit

Alternaleaf and the Dolphins have ended their partnership following ongoing challenges with the Therapeutic Goods Act. The relationship faced public scrutiny earlier this season when the team was forced to tape over Alternaleaf’s branding during their Darwin fixture.

“Given the regulatory challenges, our partnership has concluded,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader confirmed. “However, we maintain positive relations with Alternaleaf and remain open to future opportunities should circumstances change.”

Kelly King, speaking for Alternaleaf’s parent company Montu, expressed pride in the association with the Dolphins, highlighting the team’s impressive performance in their sophomore season.

Rumours swirl as Hunt eyes Queensland return

Meanwhile, the club faces mounting speculation regarding St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt. The Queensland veteran, who has been granted permission to explore offers for 2026, has previously expressed interest in finishing his career in his home state. Hunt, a former Brisbane Broncos halfback with over 300 NRL appearances, would bring valuable experience to the developing squad.

Sources close to the Dragons told The Herald that the club would consider an early release for Hunt in 2024—despite his contract running through 2025—provided they receive adequate compensation.

However, according to the Daily Telegraph,the Dolphins management maintains a measured stance despite media reports suggesting preliminary talks. “We’re always interested in good players if they’re interested in coming to our club but at the moment there’s nothing to report,” says Reader.

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Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf moved swiftly to address the rumours head-on. “I can sit here with my hand on my heart and say we’ve had no contact at all,” Woolf stated firmly. Instead, the coach doubled down on his support for rising halfback Isaiya Katoa, with whom he shares a strong connection through their time together with the Tongan national team.

“I love what Isaiya Katoa brings. He’s an outstanding halfback and he’s a guy that I think is going to be an elite halfback in the NRL and I think he’s already shown that,” Woolf said.

Published 21-October-2024

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

Photo Credit: jack/Instagram

It’s been a momentous week for the Dolphins. Alongside dual Dally M award victories for Herbie Farnworth and Jack Bostock, the club has announced the additions of Origin prop Daniel Saifiti and promising outside back Max Feagai for 2025, as well as securing two key assistant coaches to join incoming head coach Kristian Woolf.

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Dolphins celebrate Dally M success

The Dolphins’ impressive sophomore campaign has been recognised at the Dally M Awards, with the club securing two prestigious honours. Herbie Farnworth claimed the Centre of the Year award, while Jack Bostock was named Rookie of the Year, marking a major achievement for the young winger.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow was also in contention for Fullback of the Year. He was ultimately edged out by Roosters’ James Tedesco, rounding out a strong showing for the club with three nominees.

Origin prop Daniel Saifiti joins

In a major coup for the Dolphins, representative front-rower Daniel Saifiti will join the club from the Newcastle Knights. The 28-year-old veteran brings considerable experience to the forward pack, with 183 NRL games under his belt, seven State of Origin appearances for NSW, and international experience representing Fiji.

The signing reunites Saifiti with incoming head coach Kristian Woolf, his former mentor at the Knights. “He is a representative player, he is tough, aggressive, and a hard worker—all the things the Dolphins pride themselves on being,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader said.

Alongside Saifiti, Knights assistant coach Rory Kostjasyn will also make the move north, adding valuable coaching expertise to the staff.

The Woolf pack grows

The Dolphins have further strengthened their squad by securing 23-year-old Max Feagai from the St George Illawarra Dragons. The young star joins a formidable lineup of outside backs, competing alongside the trio of Dally M nominees, as well as established players Jamayne Isaako and Trai Fuller.

Dragons assistant coach Ben Woolf will unite with his brother Kristian, who will take over the reins from Wayne Bennett.

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The new recruits will begin their Dolphins journey in November’s preseason, marking the start of an exciting chapter as the club builds toward 2025 with a reinforced playing and coaching roster.

Published 07-October-2024

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.

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

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