Match Review - Dolphins v Warriors

In a thrilling Round 23 clash, the Dolphins edged out the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium, securing a hard-fought 34-32 victory thanks to Sean O'Sullivan's decisive golden point field goal.

Match Report

The Dolphins wasted no time getting on the scoreboard early, with Felise Kaufusi capitalising on a well-placed kick from Kodi Nikorima to score the opening try. Herbie Farnworth then electrified the crowd, sprinting 85 meters after Max Plath recovered an awkward bouncing Warriors kick near the goal line, extending the Dolphins' early lead. 

The Warriors responded later in the first half with Te Maire Martin connecting with Edward Kosi on a high kick to the corner, giving the visitors their first points of the afternoon.

However, the Dolphins finished the first half strong, with Kodi Nikorima and Jake Averillo combining for a 65-meter dash down the right sideline, sending the teams to the break with the Dolphins leading 20-6.

Despite being down a man due to a Dylan Walker sin-bin, the Warriors clawed their way back into the contest in the second half. Kurt Capewell scored from another perfectly placed kick by Te Maire Martin, narrowing the gap.

Herbie Farnworth then added his second try for the match, but the Warriors answered back with tries from Martin and Sifakula in the 64th and 67th minutes.

With both teams crossing the try line once more, including a penalty try to Mitch Barnett, the match was deadlocked at 36-all at full time, pushing the contest into golden point.

In extra time, both teams had early chances to seal the win, but it was Sean O'Sullivan who stepped up. Coming off the bench and slotting into dummy half, O'Sullivan helped guide the team down the field in the final set before nailing a 42-meter two-point field goal, breaking the hearts of Warriors fans and securing the Dolphins' first golden point win of the season.

This victory propels the Dolphins back into eighth place on the ladder, but with four games remaining in the regular season, they'll need to build on this momentum to secure their first-ever finals appearance.

FROM THE COACH

Reflecting on Sean O'Sullivan's game-winning moment, Dolphins Head Coach Wayne Bennett remarked, "I knew he'd make an impact... I just needed to get him on the field." Bennett credited O'Sullivan's late-game heroics to his fresh legs and clear mind after spending time on the interchange, which proved decisive in the final moments.

When asked about the team's return to the top eight, Bennett responded, "That's something to celebrate, isn't it?". While pleased with their position, he acknowledged that there's still work to be done, noting that the team needs to clean up a few areas as they push for a finals spot.

With a month left in the regular season, Bennett emphasised that despite challenges the Dolphins have demonstrated they can go toe-to-toe with the top teams in the NRL.

Bennett also praised the contributions of Herbie Farnworth and Jake Averillo, highlighting their different playing styles but acknowledging both have been game-changers and valuable additions to the squad this season.

NEXT ROUND

The Dolphins’ attention now turns to round 24 when they take on the Bulldogs in Bundaberg. Having come away from the same fixture with a loss last year, the Dolphins will be eager to secure the win.