Redcliffe Dolphins News

Last weekend saw the Dolphins Wizard Cup side earn the right to contest its 8th Grand Final in the 11 years the competition has been running. A solid 30 points to 16 victory over Easts assigned the Tigers to their post season celebrations and presents the Dolphins with the opportunity to secure their 5th Qld Cup Premiership. Unfortunately an out of sorts Colts out fit were unable to stop the momentum of the Wynnum Seagulls side going down 42 ? 20.

With the Tigers coming off 3 good wins and the Dolphins a horrible loss to Toowoomba last weeks game posed a genuine threat to the Dolphins Premiership aspirations. In a tight first half the Dolphins wrestled the ascendancy from the Tigers going to the sheds 14-12 in front. After the break an inspirational Ryan Cullen tackle on the flying Easts full back Kev Stephensen prevented a certain try and the trend for the second half had been cast. The Dolphins skipped to a 30 points to 12 lead and were never really troubled with a 77th minute Easts try giving the final score line of 30-16 in favour of the Dolphins. It was a strong performance by the side considering 70 minutes were played without half Marty Turner who strained a hamstring, however an improved performance will be required today for the Dolphins to walk away with the spoils. All players contributed although special mention must go to Mick Roberts who was back to his scheming best along with Ryan Cullen, Chris Giumelli and Danny Green who played 5/8, moving Chris Fox to half after the loss of Turner.

The Dolphins previous game against the Clydesdales will be a distant memory today with the side focusing solely on their own performance. As with all Grand Finals the match up in the forwards will go along way to deciding the outcome. The experienced Dolphins pack will be keen to gain the early advantage over their younger rivals which will in turn restrict the opportunities available to the Clydesdales slick out side backs. Adam Starr will feature in a Dolphins jersey for the last time and will be keen to lead his side with a wholehearted performance although motivation should not be a problem for todays combatants.

The Dolphins Colts were unable to stop the momentum of the Wynnum side and bowed out of contention with a lackluster performance. The game appeared evenly matched with the Dolphins holding an 8-6 lead after 15 minutes however when the Seagulls upped the ante the young Dolphins were unable to respond. Although it was a disappointing end to what has been at times a difficult year, the side can be proud of their achievements. With quite a number of the team backing up again in 2007 the Dolphins anticipate a strong showing again next year. There were some impressive performances in last weeks loss with Matt Handcock, Logan Sullivan and Asher Elemani all making a good account of themselves. These are all names Dolphins supporters can expect to see a lot of in the future.

The Dolphins would like to give an enormous thank you to their valued sponsors which includes our major sponsors Emerald Developments, IGT and Paynter Dixon. This year also saw the Club develop a new sponsorship initiative by forming the Dolphins Clubhouse, we would like to extend our appreciation to all members of the Clubhouse, your contribution to the Dolphins has assisted us in featuring on Grand Final day. A special mention must also go to the Redcliffe Leagues Club whose commitment and dedication allows the Dolphins to operate at the level we do.

A notice to all supporters buses to Suncorp Stadium Saturday will leave from the Leagues Club at 11.00am sharp cost is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for concessions and kids, you must ring the club 3203-7333 and reserve your seats. Grand Final supporter t-shirts will be available from the club from Thursday evening at a cost of $10.00 each.

If you want to send the Dolphins a good luck message for the big game you can by email dolphins@redcliffeleagues.com.au or by fax 07 3203 8377 any messages will be posted up in the dressing sheds for the players to read.

A reminder to all past players the annual reunion is on again this Friday night. It will be in the Des Webb Lounge at the club Beer and Nibblies will be provided. So get along enjoy the night tell a few yarns and catch up with some old mates.

Finally the Dolphins would like to recognize the contribution of all our playing, coaching and support staff. We wish those who are leaving us all the best for their future and hope they are better for having spent time with our proud club.