SUNDAY APRIL 27th, 2025
Raiders v Dolphins
GIO Stadium, Canberra 2:00pm
Momentum vs. Belief: A Sunday Showdown with Classic Potential
As the warm Sunday afternoon sun casts its glow over the footy field, all eyes turn to what promises to be one of the standout clashes of the round.
The Canberra Raiders have been one of the biggest surprises of the season so far. With five wins from their opening seven games, they find themselves sitting comfortably in third place—something few predicted at the start of the year. Last week’s 30-20 comeback win over the Titans, after trailing 16-0 early, showcased the team’s growing resilience and belief. It’s clear their strong form is no fluke.
On the other side, the Dolphins have made headlines of their own. In a stunning result, they blew competition favourites the Melbourne Storm off the park with a 42-22 win last round. Now just one win outside the top eight, the Dolphins are showing they’re more than capable of shaking things up when they hit their stride.
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has the luxury of naming an unchanged 17 from last week’s victory. Continuity like that can be powerful—building chemistry and confidence within the squad. But Canberra will know they can’t afford another slow start. The Dolphins have proven they’re defensively tough and won’t give up points easily.
With two in-form teams, each with something to prove, this match is shaping up to be a classic Sunday
Raiders
1. Kaeo Weekes 2. Savelio Tamale 3. Matthew Timoko 4. Sebastian Kris 5. Xavier Savage 6. Ethan Strange 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Corey Horsburgh 9. Tom Starling 10. Joseph Tapine 11. Hudson Young 12. Matt Nicholson 13. Morgan Smithies 14. Owen Pattie 15. Zac Hosking 16. Josh Papali’i 17. Ata Mariota 18. Simi Sasagi 19. Jed Stuart 20. Pasami Saulo 21. Trey Mooney 22. Danny Levi
In: Simi Sasagi (reserve), Jed Stuart (reserve), Pasami Saulo (reserve), Trey Mooney (reserve), Danny Levi (reserve)
Changes: Josh Papalii (lock to bench), Morgan Smithies (bench to lock)
New Faces, Old Rivals: Dolphins Dive into Uncharted Territory with History on the Line
There’s something about the Canberra Raiders that brings out the drama every time they face the Dolphins. They may only have a brief history together, but when these two sides meet, sparks tend to fly. In just three encounters, the margin of victory has never exceeded six points. The Raiders currently hold a narrow 2-1 edge in the head-to-head, but if history is anything to go by, we’re in for another nail-biter.
This time, however, the Dolphins are rolling into new territory—literally.
For the first time in their short existence, the Dolphins will make the trip to Canberra’s GIO Stadium, and they’ll do so riding a wave of confidence. Their stunning 42-22 demolition of the Melbourne Storm last week was arguably their greatest win to date, and now they have a chance to make even more history. A win on Sunday would mark their first-ever four-game winning streak, setting a new club record.
Adding to their momentum, the Dolphins receive a significant boost with the debut of experienced representative front-rower Francis Molo. His inclusion brings some firepower up front and causes a small shuffle in the forward pack. Felise Kaufusi (knee) is out, while Mark Nicholls slides into the starting side at lock. Known for his high-impact minutes off the bench, Nicholls’ move into the starting lineup is set to increase both his involvement and influence on the game.
Since joining the NRL in 2023, the Dolphins have faced Canberra three times—twice at Kayo Stadium and once in Wagga Wagga—but Sunday marks a fresh chapter in the rivalry. New faces, unfamiliar ground, and records on the line… it all sets the stage for what could be yet another classic encounter between two sides who know how to put on a show.
Dolphins
1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 2. Jamayne Isaako 3. Jake Averillo , 4. Herbie Farnworth 5. Jack Bostock 6. Kodi Nikorima 7. Isaiya Katoa 8. Daniel Saifiti 9. Max Plath 10. Francis Molo 11. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 12. Tom Gilbert 13. Mark Nicholls 14. Kurt Donoghoe 15. Ray Stone 16. Connelly Lemuelu 17. Josh Kerr 18. Kenny Bromwich 19. Sean O’Sullivan 20. Oryn Keeley, 21. Tevita Naufahu 22. Junior Tupou
Out: Felise Kaufusi (lock)
In: Francis Molo (front row), Kenny Bromwich (reserve), Sean O’Sullivan (reserve), Oryn Keeley (reserve), Tevita Naufahu (reserve), Junior Tupou (reserve)
Changes: Mark Nicholls (front row to lock)
Battle of the Big Men: Forward Firepower and a Halves Duel Set the Stage
When the Raiders and Dolphins lock horns this Sunday, it won’t just be about flashy plays or sweeping backline moves. This one will be won—or lost—right through the middle.
Both sides pride themselves on tough, grinding footy. Their forwards are the engine room, the heartbeat, and the platform for everything else that unfolds. That’s why the key match-up to watch is between Raiders captain Joe Tapine and Dolphins debutant Francis Molo. It’s power vs power, grit vs grit.
Molo may not always grab the headlines, but the former Queensland Origin forward is one of the more underrated enforcers in the game. His arrival in the Dolphins’ pack gives them a fresh edge—he’s tough, experienced, and ready to make a statement in his new colours.
Then there’s Tapine. On his day, the Kiwi international can be the most dominant front-rower in the NRL. His barnstorming runs, clever offloads, and nose for the try-line make him a nightmare to defend. He’s not just a leader—he’s a weapon. And he’ll be looking to assert himself early and often on home turf.
The Dolphins won’t shy away from the challenge. Since entering the league in 2023, they’ve built their identity on the backs of seasoned forwards who relish physical contests. Stopping Canberra’s big men in their own backyard will be a huge test—but one this Dolphins pack will welcome.
And while the spotlight will naturally fall on the forward battle, don’t overlook the halves showdown bubbling beneath the surface. Young Dolphins halfback Isaiya Katoa continues to grow in confidence and control, while Raiders No. 7 Jamal Fogarty is navigating uncertain waters amid growing rumours of a potential move to Manly. With Katoa on the rise and Fogarty possibly playing for his future, this duel adds another intriguing layer to the contest.
The Raiders may rightfully enter as favourites—but this game has all the makings of a classic upset. Don’t sleep on the Dolphins. Not now. Not after last week.
Key Stats
The Raiders have won their last two games against the Dolphins by one point.
The Dolphins will play their first game at GIO Stadium.
Raiders second-rower Hudson Young has scored six tries in his last three games.
The Dolphins are aiming for a club record fourth consecutive win.
Raiders winger Xavier Savage has scored five tries in his last five games at GIO Stadium.
Referees: Ashley Klein, Touch Judges, Dave Munro, Kieren Irons, Bunker, Adam Gee.
Wests Tigers v Cronulla Sharks
Leichhardt Oval, Sydney 4:05pm
Tigers Seek Redemption at Leichhardt After Turbulent Week
The Wests Tigers return to Leichhardt Oval this weekend, hoping the familiar roar of their spiritual home can lift them out of a rough patch both on and off the field.
It’s been a tough week for the club, overshadowed by the ongoing Lachlan Galvin saga that has dominated headlines and distracted from preparations. That off-field noise spilled over onto the pitch, where the Tigers suffered a 38-22 defeat to the Eels—a scoreline that didn’t quite reflect the effort, but did highlight the cracks that need urgent fixing.
Now, with little time to regroup, they face a daunting challenge against the high-flying Sharks.
The last time these two sides met, it was nothing short of a nightmare for the Tigers. In Round 19 last season, the Sharks tore them apart in a 58-6 demolition, scoring 10 tries to one in a performance that left scars. But if there’s one glimmer of hope for the Tigers, it lies in the history of Leichhardt Oval—their heartland fortress.
Since 2000, the Tigers have hosted the Sharks there ten times and emerged victorious in six of those encounters. The venue has a way of inspiring the Tigers, of bringing out the fight in them, and they’ll need every ounce of that passion to turn things around this weekend.
For a team under pressure, in front of their home fans, this isn’t just another game—it’s a shot at redemption.
Tigers
1. Jahream Bula 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Adam Doueihi 4. Starford To’a, 5. Brent Naden 6. Lachlan Galvin 7. Jarome Luai 8. Terrell May 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. Fonua Pole 11. Samuela Fainu 12. Alex Seyfarth 13. Alex Twal 14. Tallyn Da Silva 15. Royce Hunt 16. Jack Bird 17. Sione Fainu 18. Tony Sukkar 19. Heath Mason 20. Kit Laulilii 21. Solomona Faataape 22. Tristan Hope
Out: Luke Laulilii (wing)
In: Lachlan Galvin (five-eighth), Royce Hunt (bench), Tony Sukkar (reserve), Heath Mason (reserve), Kit Laulilii (reserve), Solomona Faataape (reserve), Tristan Hope (reserve)
Changes: Brent Naden (centre to wing), Jarome Luai (five-eighth to halfback), Adam Doueihi (halfback to centre)
Sharks Surge into the Top Eight: Momentum Builds for Sunday Showdown
The Cronulla Sharks are riding high, their demolition of the Newcastle Knights propelling them into the top eight. With a newfound sense of confidence and momentum, they now set their sights on a Sunday afternoon clash with the Wests Tigers—a team they’ll look to take full advantage of.
Against Newcastle, the Sharks were a force to be reckoned with. Nine players ran for over 100 metres, leaving the Knights exhausted and chasing shadows for much of the match. It was a powerful, relentless display, and one that showed just how dangerous this Sharks side can be when they click. Now, with the Tigers in their sights, they’ll be looking to replicate that same physical dominance.
Leading the charge up front is Addin Fonua-Blake, who once again sets the tone in the middle. His raw power and relentless drive through the middle of the field have been key to their success, and he’ll be aiming to tear holes in the Tigers’ defensive line. But it’s not just the forwards doing the damage. The Sharks’ backline, led by their slick and classy outside backs, will be poised to cash in on any opportunities, looking to exploit space and finish off the hard work done by the big men.
As the Sharks continue their push for a higher spot on the ladder, this Sunday’s match will be a big test—not just of their attacking prowess, but of their ability to maintain this dangerous momentum as the season heats up.
Sharks
1. William Kennedy 2. Samuel Stonestreet 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Mawene Hiroti 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Oregon Kaufusi 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton, 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Daniel Atkinson 15. Siosifa Talakai 16. Tuku Hau Tapuha 17. Thomas Hazelton 18. Jayden Berrell 19. Braden Hamlin-Uele 20. Billy Burns, 21. Hohepa Puru 22. Jesse Colquhoun
Out: Toby Rudolf (bench)
In: Tuku Hau Tapuha (bench), Jayden Berrell (reserve), Braden Hamlin-Uele (reserve), Billy Burns (reserve), Hohepa Puru (reserve), Jesse Colquhoun (reserve)
Key Stats
Wests Tigers have won only two of their past 13 games against the Sharks.
Sharks winger Sam Stonestreet has scored six tries in his last six games.
Wests Tigers have won four of their past six games at Leichhardt Oval.
Sharks winger Ronaldo Mulitalo has scored six tries in his last six games against the Tigers.
Wests Tigers prop Alex Twal will make his 150th NRL appearance.
Referees: Grant Atkins, Touch Judges, Jon Stone, Kasey Badger, Bunker, Liam Kennedy.
A Bunker Blunder: Controversy Strikes After Tupouniua’s Dangerous Knee
It was a moment that left fans and commentators shaking their heads in disbelief. Sitili Tupouniua, the Bulldogs’ star second-rower, committed what many believed was a dangerous and ugly act—yet somehow, he remained on the field without so much as a sin bin.
The incident came in the second half of the Bulldogs’ loss to the Broncos. Running at Broncos defender Brendan Piakura, Tupouniua raised his knees in what looked like a clear attempt to make contact. The replays were damning: Tupouniua’s knee connected with Piakura’s head, and as the Broncos player was already reeling from the first blow, Tupouniua followed up with a second, deliberate kicking motion.
In the heat of the moment, referee Gerard Sutton immediately awarded the Broncos a penalty and put Tupouniua on report, sensing the seriousness of the situation. But when the incident was reviewed by the video match official (VMO), the call took a baffling turn. Despite the clear evidence, the Bunker, manned by Adam Gee, decided that no further action was warranted, and Tupouniua was allowed to remain on the field.
The outrage was palpable. NRL commentators were nearly unanimous in their disbelief, and fans across the country voiced their frustration. How could such a dangerous act go unpunished, especially when it was clear on replay? The question echoed through social media and sports talk shows alike: How many more mistakes from the Bunker will the NRL tolerate?
This latest blunder has once again brought the Bunker system under fire, with many calling for a serious overhaul. Critics are adamant that officials like Adam Gee—who was responsible for reviewing the footage—should be held accountable for their poor decisions. Many even believe Gee and his colleague “The Badger” are no longer fit to be officiating at the highest level of the game.
As the NRL continues to back its controversial video referee system, the question remains: When will there be consequences for the Bunker’s costly mistakes? Until then, fans and players alike will be left wondering how something so obvious could slip through the cracks.
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