Round 12: Warriors v Dolphins preview
The Wahs are up, but so are the Phins
Sunday afternoon in Auckland will see the New Zealand Warriors host The Dolphins to close out the round, with the Kiwi side looking to build some momentum after their shock win at Magic Round last week. The Dolphins are sitting in 4th on the ladder and are shaping as genuine top eight contenders as the season's halfway mark draws nearer, whilst the Warriors in 13th have some work to do. The Dolphins will further like their chances for this game because of the Warrior's extensive injury list.
The Warriors head into this game on an absolute high, having defied the odds at Magic Round to emerge victorious in their Sunday clash against the back-to-back-to-back premiers the Penrith Panthers. Despite conceding within two minutes, NZ were able to fight back and hold on to their 22-20 lead until the full time siren. However their poor form prior to last week's match does introduce quite a bit of doubt as to whether they can replicate this performance this weekend - but if what they say is true and you're only as good as your last game, then the Warriors will be sweet.
The Warriors are bolstered by the inclusions of Rocco Berry, Marata Niukore, and Freddy Lussick, who were all named on Tuesday to return from injury. Wayde Egan is a new addition to the casualty ward, set to miss this game due to concussion protocols. Ali Leiataua is back in NSW Cup despite crossing for his debut NRL try against Penrith, whilst Paul Roaches also makes way by shifting from the bench to 18th man.
The Dolphins dealt with the Tigers in the last game of Magic Round, but they may be a little disappointed about keeping the Tigers in the game. Despite leading 12-0, the Dolphins were spending a lot of time defending their own line. And it was their defence, or perhaps the Tigers lack of attacking prowess, that won them the game, 24-12. A second half double to the Hammer on his return from injury is a great positive for Dolphins fans.
Max Plath is back after missing last week, named to slot straight into his lock role. His return forces Kenny Bromwich to the bench and Kurt Donoghoe out of the 17.
Last meeting: Round 27 2023 - Dolphins 34 Warriors 10
Who to watch: Te Maire Martin is a story of rugby league resilience like no other. Martin will line up in the halves for the Warriors, where he has been playing consistently this season. In the absence of Shaun Johnson, Martin is the key playmaker for his side, working together with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad in the six this weekend. Having been diagnosed with a bleed on the brain in 2019, Martin spent a few years on the sidelines before linking up with the Brisbane Broncos in 2022. Playing at fullback in first grade, a return home to New Zealand last year saw his role shift to that of the half, although his resilience was again tested when he suffered a broken leg and other medical setbacks throughout last season. Martin will need to play a key role this Sunday if the Warriors are to get up.
Herbie Farnworth was a massive signing for The Dolphins, and he has been playing a stellar role so far this season for his new club. Having spent the entirety of his NRL career previously with the Brisbane Broncos, the centre has adapted well to life at Redcliffe, although he has missed a few games through an ac joint injury already this season. Farnworth grew up in England before being scouted by the Broncos, and is a great successful example of a back coming over from the north and making a career in the NRL. Farnworth has only crossed for one try so far this season so he will be looking to add to his tally.
Favourite: The Dolphins are the narrow favourites despite the Warriors' upset win last week.
My tip: With three wins in a row and playing consistently good footy, I think the Dolphins will get the job done in Auckland. Dolphins by 8.
