Match Preview: Round 20 – Panthers v Dolphins

Author: Liam Edwards
Timestamp: Fri 19 Jul 2024, 08:50 AM

The Dolphins will travel to the foot of the Blue Mountains to face the reigning premiers, the Panthers, this Sunday at 2 pm. In a highly anticipated match, both teams will welcome back representative players, adding to the excitement and intensity of this top-eight contest.

TEAM CHANGES:

The Dolphins come into the match with three changes from their round 19 victory over the Rabbitohs. With State of Origin concluding on Wednesday night, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow returns to the starting fullback position. Felise Kaufusi, replacing the injured Euan Aitken in the second row, will celebrate his 200th NRL appearance. Aitken is likely to miss the rest of the season due to a torn pectoral muscle sustained in Round 19. Dolphins Head Coach Wayne Bennett has also chosen to keep Trai Fuller in the team, looking to leverage his usual electric style from the bench.

The Panthers will be bolstered by the return of co-captain Nathan Cleary, who has been out with a hamstring injury since Round 10. New South Wales Origin representatives Jarome Luai, Brian To'o, and Liam Martin are listed among the extended reserves and may be called up for Sunday’s match. Meanwhile, fellow New South Wales teammates Isaah Yeo and Dylan Edwards will be rested for Round 20.

TOP 8 CLASH:

Currently sitting in second place on the ladder, the Panthers are four competition points and two wins ahead of the Dolphins, who are positioned in sixth.

The Dolphins enter this match on a high note, having defeated the Rabbitohs 36-28 in Round 19. They are also aiming to secure their sixth road victory of the season. With a 10-day turnaround, the Dolphins preparations should have them fresh for the challenge against the Panthers, who are coming off a bye.

While significant, a Panthers win won't allow them to overtake the Storm and move to the top of the ladder. However, a Dolphins victory could see them climb higher in the rankings, especially if other results in Round 20 are favourable. This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter and has the potential to reshape the dynamics of the top eight as the season progresses.

THE MILESTONE MAN:

This weekend's fixture will mark a significant milestone for Felise Kaufusi as he makes his 200th NRL appearance. Kaufusi debuted for the Melbourne Storm in 2015 before joining the Dolphins for their inaugural season in 2023.

Kaufusi’s career is decorated with numerous accolades, including two premierships with the Storm in 2017 and 2020. On the representative stage, he has played 17 games for Queensland in State of Origin, 10 games for Tonga, and 4 games for Australia, showcasing his talent on both representative levels.

His junior football journey began with the Bundaberg Brothers, before signing with the Cowboys and playing in their under-20s team. Before his NRL Debut, he further developed his game with the Northern Pride in the Queensland Cup.

Known for his hard-hitting tackles and iconic hair, Kaufusi has earned the nickname “Phin Diesel” from Dolphins fans.

As he reaches this remarkable milestone, Kaufusi’s leadership and experience continue to be invaluable assets to the Dolphins, underscoring his enduring impact on the field.

FRONT ROW HEAVYWEIGHTS:

A key match-up in this clash will be the battle of the front rowers, with both teams relying on their powerful forwards to dominate the middle of the park. The spotlight will be on the contest between Tevita Pangai Junior and James Fisher-Harris.

Pangai Junior aims to make an impact in his second starting appearance for the Dolphins. Known for his powerful runs, he will be crucial in maintaining momentum and supporting second-phase play with his offloads. His ability to break through defensive lines and create opportunities for his teammates will be essential for the Dolphins’ success.

On the other side, James Fisher-Harris is renowned for his consistent run meters and formidable defensive skills. As a cornerstone of the Panthers’ pack, his aggressive tackling and relentless work rate make him a key figure in both defence and attack. Fisher-Harris's ability to intimidate opponents and gain valuable meters will be pivotal in setting the platform for the Panthers’ playmakers.

STATS BREAKDOWN:

The Dolphins and Panthers have a limited head-to-head history, having met only once before in the 2023 season. The Panthers emerged victorious in that encounter with a 24-14 win at Kayo Stadium.

In the 2024 season, the Dolphins hold a slight offensive edge, averaging three more points per game than their opponents. However, the Panthers maintain the best defensive record in the league, conceding only 15 points per game on average. This defensive prowess has been a cornerstone of the Panthers' success this season, making them a formidable opponent for any team.

The Panthers have the upper hand when examining their current form, winning three of their last five games. In contrast, the Dolphins have secured two victories in their previous five outings.