SATURDAY, MAY 4th, 2024 QUEENSLAND COUNTRY BANK STADIUM, TOWNSVILLE
Can Two Teams Seeking Redemption Deliver a Fiery Battle?
Are we in for an intense showdown as the Cowboys and Dolphins clash in Townsville to reclaim their names from defeat? Let’s recap last week’s matches and the subsequent updates on both teams to make my predictions.
Cowboys vs Panthers Analysis
In Round 8, the Cowboys led the reigning champions 18-4 at halftime but fell short in the second half, losing by a tight margin of 26-20. Despite their best efforts and creating 16 offloads against the Panthers, they couldn’t crack the formidable defense, which ultimately led to their defeat.
Dolphins vs Knights Analysis
Last week, the Dolphins put up a fight but lost to the underperforming Knights. Despite a flat start, they managed to pull off two tries in the final three minutes, closing the gap. However, Jamayne Isaako’s kicks lacked accuracy, with only one successful conversion out of three attempts, leading to their 18-14 defeat.
Outlook for Both Teams this Season: The next two months will test the Dolphins as they face tough opponents like the Sea Eagles, Sharks, and Storms. On the other hand, the Cowboys have several winnable games ahead, brightening their prospects for the season.
Dolphins Player Updates
Dolphins’ captain Jesse Bromwich seems fit to play despite a calf issue, while his brother Kenny will sit out due to concussion protocol. However, the return of Felise Kaufusi and Connelly Lemuelu will be a significant boost for the team.
Cowboys Player Updates
The Cowboys’ center, Tom Chester, suffered a hamstring tear during Saturday’s game, forcing him to be sidelined for approximately four weeks. Chester had been filling in for PNG Kumul Zac Laybutt, who was ruled out for the season with an ACL tear. Will Coach Todd Payton be able to manage this gap effectively?
Additionally, Viliami Vailea, a former Warriors Rookie of the Year recipient, will make his club debut as a centre.
Key Points for Both Teams
The Cowboys have scored 77 points in their past two games against the Dolphins.
The Dolphins have won only one of their past four Queensland derbies.
Cowboys winger Semi Valemei has scored nine tries in his past seven games at QCB Stadium.
Dolphins winger Jamayne Isaako has landed only five of his past 13 attempts at goal.
Cowboys winger Kyle Feldt has scored four tries in three games against the Dolphins.
Line-ups and Referees
Dolphins
1. Trai Fuller 2. Jamayne Isaako 3. Jake Averillo 4. Tesi Niu 5. Jack Bostock 6. Kodi Nikorima 7. Isaiya Katoa 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Mark Nicholls 11. Felise Kaufusi 12. Euan Aitken 13. Max Plath 14. Josh Kerr 15. Kurt Donoghoe 16. Ray Stone 17. Connelly Lemuelu 18. Oryn Keeley 19. Sean O’Sullivan 20. Jarrod Wallace 21. Edrick Lee 22. Mason Teague
Cowboys
1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Kyle Feldt 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Viliami Vailea 5. Semi Valemei 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Jordan McLean 9. Reece Robson 10. Griffin Neame 11. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 12. Jeremiah Nanai 13. Reuben Cotter 14. Heilum Luki 15. Thomas Mikaele 16. Sam McIntyre 17. Jason Taumalolo 18. Jake Granville 19. Jake Clifford 20. Harrison Edwards 21. Jamal Shibasaki 22. Jaxon Purdue
Referees: Peter Gough; Side line Officials: Jarrod Cole, Tyson Brough; Bunker. Wyatt Raymond;
Prediction for the Game
Last week, both teams showed promising performances in the closing stages.
However, in NRL, initiating a good play early on is more critical than chasing points later. So, speed will be key in this game too. If either team can control the game early on, they can edge closer to victory.
Additionally, Isaako’s kicking woes and the home advantage for the Cowboys might tilt the scales in their favor.
It promises to be an exciting match, but considering these factors, I predict the Cowboys will emerge victorious.
What are your thoughts?
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