NRL, ROUND 23, AUGUST 5TH, 2023 REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS
PERTH OPTUS STADIUM,WA
The city of Perth is set to witness an extraordinary rugby league clash as the Redcliffe Dolphins take on the Newcastle Knights at Perth Stadium on August 5th, 2023. This thrilling encounter promises to be a battle of determination and skill, as both teams look to secure a crucial victory in NRL Round 23.
The Dolphins’ season has been a rollercoaster ride, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. In their previous match against the Bulldogs, they fought valiantly but narrowly lost by a single point in a captivating contest, with the final score being 23-22. A missed conversion on full-time by Isaako added to the heartbreak, exacerbated by challenging crosswinds.
However, the Dolphins are determined to bounce back and seize another opportunity for triumph. With key changes in their lineup due to Euan Aitken’s knee injury, Kodi Nikorima moves to the centres, and Anthony Milford takes the five-eighth position. Connelly Lemuelu’s availability after a head knock and Isaiya Katoa’s role from the bench further bolster their attacking options.
The Knights, on the other hand, have been on an impressive run of form. Their last four matches, including a convincing 28-6 victory over the Raiders, have displayed their growing intensity and determination to climb up the ladder. A full-strength team, led by Kalyn Ponga and Dominic Young in the backline, presents a formidable challenge for the Dolphins.
As the two sides prepare to clash in Perth, the Dolphins’ backline, featuring the explosive trio of Nikorima, Milford, and Isaako, poses a significant concern for the Knights. Isaako’s impressive stats of 16 tries, 21 line breaks, and 78 tackle breaks, along with Nikorima’s 13 try assists and Milford’s 252.8 kicking meters, underscore their attacking potential.
The Knights, led by Jacob Saifiti and Tyson Frizell in the forward pack, bring their own arsenal of strength and determination. Dominic Young, with an opportunity to equal the club record for most tries in a season, teams up with winger Greg Marzhew, known for his impressive 130 tackle breaks, leading the NRL in this category.
As the match unfolds at Perth Stadium, fans can expect an intense head-to-head battle between two sides aiming for victory. The Dolphins will be eager to capitalize on their past success against the Knights, while the Knights’ recent form indicates their determination to secure a top-eight spot.
Prediction:
In this highly anticipated NRL Round 23 clash at Perth Stadium, the stakes couldn’t be higher for both the Redcliffe Dolphins and the Newcastle Knights. Sitting outside the top eight, both teams view this match as a must-win encounter to keep their finals hopes alive.
The Dolphins, despite their recent struggles, have demonstrated resilience throughout the season. However, the Knights’ strong form and desire to qualify for the top eight could prove decisive in this showdown.
With both sides boasting speedsters like Ponga and Tabuai-Fidow, the game promises to be a thrilling spectacle. While the Dolphins have a chance to cause an upset, the Knights’ recent run of form makes them the favorites in this contest.
As much as I support the Dolphins, I believe the Knights’ determined performance will be too much for them to handle. Expect the Knights to come out victorious in this closely contested battle at Perth Stadium.
Dolphins: 1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 2. Jamayne Isaako 3. Kodi Nikorima 4. Valynce Te Whare 5. Tesi Niu 6. Anthony Milford 7. Sean O’Sullivan 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Mark Nicholls 11. Felise Kaufusi 12. Connelly Lemuelu 13. Kenny Bromwich 14. Herman Ese’ese 15. Josh Kerr 16. Isaiya Katoa 17. Jarrod Wallace 18. Max Plath 19. Trai Fuller 20. Poasa Faamausili 21. Ray Stone 22. Jack Bostock
Knights: 1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Dominic Young 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Tyson Gamble 7. Jackson Hastings 8. Jacob Saifiti 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Leo Thompson 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Lachlan Fitzgibbon 13. Adam Elliott 14. Kurt Mann 15. Brodie Jones 16. Jack Hetherington 17. Mathew Croker 18. Dylan Lucas 19. Enari Tuala 20. Simi Sasagi 21. Dane Aukafolau 22. Jack Johns
Referee: Grant Atkins
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