Match Preview: Round 23 – Dolphins v Warriors

For the Warriors, currently in thirteenth place, a victory is essential to keep their mathematical chances of making the top eight alive. Meanwhile, the Dolphins, sitting in ninth despite a three-game losing streak, are fighting to solidify their position and secure their first-ever finals berth.

With great seats still available, secure your seat for the Dolphins' round 23 clash by purchasing your tickets here.

TEAM CHANGES: 

The Dolphins will be aided by the return of Kodi Nikorima and Tevita Pangai Junior, who were late omissions from their round 22 game due to illness and a calf strain. Jamayne Isaako is also expected to keep his spot in the team despite an ankle injury sustained in the previous match, with a chance to prove his fitness to play at the Dolphins' captain's run on Saturday.

Edward Kosi is the only addition to the Warriors team, with the winger missing the previous match. His inclusion will see Roger Tuivasa-Sheck shift to the centres with Moala Graham-Taufa moving to the reserves.

FIGHT FOR THE FINALS: 

Having slipped further down the ladder after last week's loss to the Roosters, the Dolphins face an uphill battle to lock in their first finals appearance. With five matches remaining in the season, the Dolphins will need to win the majority of these matches and rely on some favourable results in other league fixtures. With mixed performances in the past two months, a win on Sunday will see the Dolphins take a crucial step towards their goal. 

The Warriors' equation for the finals is slightly more complicated, given that they sit five competition points below eighth spot. A late-season winning streak and their final-round bye could mathematically see them sneak into the eight. But a lot would need to fall their way for this to happen, and a loss this week will see those hopes all but dashed.

THE HAMMER v. CNK:

A key match-up for this week will see both teams' fullbacks, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, face off in a duel of speed and agility.  

Tabuai-Fidow has scored 12 tries from 11 games this season, relying on his blistering speed to break open the game. The Dolphins will look to their fullback to continue his scoring streak and be a threat whenever he has the ball in hand.

Meanwhile, Nicoll-Klokstad, the metre-gaining machine, will offer the Warriors his consistent brand of football with his hard running carries. The Warriors fullback is one of the league leaders in kick return metres and average metres gained per game.

STATS BREAKDOWN:

The Warriors have the edge in head-to-head clashes against the Dolphins, winning two of their three encounters. In their most recent meeting earlier this season, the Dolphins suffered a narrow loss at Go Media Stadium despite initially controlling the game. 

Dolphins winger Jamayne Isaako has been a standout in these matches, crossing the try line four times. He will aim to further his tally, particularly given the Dolphins' recent offensive strength. However, their defence has been a concern, conceding at least 21 points in each of the last nine games, meaning a robust defensive effort is needed to keep their finals aspirations alive.

The Warriors' track record at Suncorp Stadium has been poor, with five losses in their last six appearances. This game carries added significance as it is likely to be Shaun Johnson's final game at Suncorp Stadium, and the Warriors will be eager to overturn their recent form at this venue.