Round 26: Dolphins v Broncos preview
The Battle of Brisbane takes centre stage this Saturday afternoon as the Brisbane Broncos and the Dolphins clash at Suncorp Stadium, with both teams fighting for a coveted Top 8 spot. With each side sitting on 26 points, the Broncos have a slight edge due to a better points differential. However, this game is essentially an elimination match, with the loser likely missing out on finals footy.
In Round 25, the Brisbane Broncos showcased their resilience by overcoming a 16-0 deficit to claim a thrilling 30-24 victory against the Parramatta Eels. Despite a rough start, with the Eels crossing for three tries in the first 10 minutes, the Broncos fought back, with Tristan Sailor and Josh Rogers scoring crucial tries before halftime. The second half saw the Broncos take control, with Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs capitalising on Parramatta errors to secure the win. However, the game was not without its challenges, as Kobe Hetherington was sidelined due to a failed HIA.
The Dolphins, on the other hand, struggled in their Round 25 encounter against the Melbourne Storm, suffering a heavy 46-10 defeat. The loss of key players Kodi Nikorima and Jesse Bromwich to HIA protocols, along with Felise Kaufusi's sin-binning, contributed to a disastrous first half in which the Dolphins trailed 22-0 at halftime. Despite a consolation try from Jake Averillo, the Dolphins' lack of possession and poor completion rate allowed the Storm to dominate, leaving the Dolphins with plenty to prove this weekend.
Looking ahead to Round 26, the Brisbane Broncos will be eager to maintain their momentum to solidify their place in the Top 8. Star prop Payne Haas, who has been named among the reserves, could make a significant impact if he returns from the lisfranc injury that has sidelined him since Round 22. The Broncos will be without Kobe Hetherington, with Ben Te Kura stepping in for his first NRL game since Round 5. Kotoni Staggs continues to be a key weapon for the Broncos, having scored six tries in his last six games, while Selwyn Cobbo's remarkable record against the Dolphins makes him one to watch.
For the Dolphins, the challenge is steep, but the stakes couldn't be higher. A worrying form slump has seen them win just three of their last 12 games. They have struggled defensively, conceding 150 points in their last four games, and their record at Suncorp Stadium this season has been underwhelming, with just four wins from nine games. The absence of Kodi Nikorima and Jesse Bromwich further complicates the task, though Sean O'Sullivan's return to the starting halves could provide the spark they need. With Jake Averillo set to make his 100th NRL appearance, the Dolphins will be hoping to rally around their milestones and salvage their season with a victory.
Last meeting: Round 6 2024 - Broncos 28 Dolphins 14
Who to watch: Broncos' flyer Selwyn Cobbo will be looking to continue his two-tries-a-game average against the Dolphins this weekend on the wing. Although he has scored four tries in his last 11 games, he hasn't scored a double since the last time the sides met in Round 6.
Dolphins' five-eighth Sean O'Sullivan will be looking to show that he can help guide the side around the field after being named in the halves for just the 3rd time this year. After starting the year in the 7 jersey, he has struggled to get back into the halves, and with the injury to Kodi Nikorima, he now gets his chance.
FAVOURITE: The bookies favour the Broncos in this one. They have a very strong record against the Dolphins, who have struggled in recent weeks.
MY TIP: Although the Broncos are favourites heading into this match, with both teams fighting for their finals lives, expect a fiercely contested battle. The Dolphins' recent form slump might give the Broncos the edge, but with so much on the line, this could be closer than the odds suggest. Brisbane by 2.
