NRL , ROUND 18, JULY 1st, 2023 BRISBANE BRONCOS v REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS
THE GABBA,BRISBANE
In a highly anticipated clash at The Gabba on July 1st, the Brisbane Broncos and the Redcliffe Dolphins will reignite their rivalry in Round 18 of the NRL. This match holds significant importance for both teams as they strive to secure crucial points and maintain their positions on the ladder.
The Broncos have had a strong season overall, but a disappointing 18-12 defeat against the Titans in their last match has raised concerns. Memories of the previous season’s collapse, where they went from the top four to missing the finals, loom large, and the Broncos are determined to avoid a similar fate this year. Head coach Kevin Walters didn’t hold back in expressing his disappointment after the Titans loss, and he will be looking for a strong response from his players.
Unfortunately for the Broncos, they will be without the services of talented fullback Reece Walsh, who has been suspended for three games. However, Tristan Sailor, who performed well in the previous match, will take over the fullback position. While injuries have taken a toll on their forward pack, the Broncos’ backline remains potent, and they will be eager to exploit the Dolphins’ defensive vulnerabilities after their 40+ point concession in the previous round.
On the other hand, the Redcliffe Dolphins have experienced a tough month, with three consecutive losses by significant margins. After an impressive start to their debut NRL campaign, they have struggled to maintain their early form. Coach Wayne Bennett faces the challenge of keeping his team motivated and positive to prevent a further slide down the ladder.
The Dolphins possess plenty of firepower, including leading point scorer Jamayne Isaako and the skillful Valynce Te Whare in the centres. Despite their recent struggles, a local derby occasion against the Broncos could provide the spark they need to bounce back.
Adding to the intrigue of this clash is the venue itself. The match will be played at The Gabba, which is usually reserved for cricket but will host this NRL showdown due to the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup.
For the Broncos, rebounding from their subpar performance against the Titans is crucial. Halfback Adam Reynolds, in particular, will look to regain his usual control of the contest and provide better direction to the team’s attack. With key forwards Thomas Flegler and Jordan Riki out for the season, Keenan Palasia and Brendan Piakura will need to step up and match the effort of their absent teammates.
The Dolphins’ halves combination of Isaiyah Katoa and Sean O’Sullivan will be tested against the Broncos’ formidable side. Their tackling and kicking skills will play a crucial role in getting the Dolphins moving forward. Additionally, the experience and leadership of the Bromwich brothers and Felise Kaufusi in the forward pack will be vital as they aim to match up against the Broncos’ formidable lineup.
Both teams have named their respective lineups, and the stage is set for an enthralling encounter between these Queensland rivals.
Dolphins team: 1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 2. Jamayne Isaako 3. Euan Aitken 4. Valynce Te Whare 5. Tesi Niu 6. Isaiya Katoa 7. Sean O’Sullivan 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Herman Ese’ese 11. Felise Kaufusi 12. Kenny Bromwich 13. Ray Stone 14. Josh Kerr 15. Mark Nicholls 16. Connelly Lemuelu 17. Kodi Nikorima 18. Max Plath 19. Harrison Graham 20. Poasa Faamausili 21. Brayden Mcgrady 22. Kurt Donoghoe
Broncos team: 1. Reece Walsh 2. Corey Oates 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Herbie Farnworth 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Keenan Palasia 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Haas 11. Brendan Piakura 12. Xavier Willison 13. Patrick Carrigan 14. Tyson Smoothy 15. Corey Jensen 16. Kobe Hetherington 17. Martin Taupau 18. Jesse Arthars 19. Deine Mariner 20. Jock Madden 21. Tristan Sailor 22. Logan Bayliss-Brow
Referees: Peter Gough; Sideline Officials: Matt Noyen, Michael Wise; Video Referees: Adam Gee;
PREDICTION
I can not go past the Broncos here, although the Dolphins will fight until the end, the Broncos simply have to win. They were out played last week by the Gold Coast and this can not happen again if they want to stay in the eight. The Dolphins have enough fire power to upset the Broncos so this won’t be a walk over. Broncos by 7 points.
Any time try scorer, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow for the Fins, and Kotoni Staggs for the Broncs.
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