Match Preview: Round 27 - Knights v Dolphins

The stage is set for an epic conclusion to the 2024 NRL season, as the Dolphins face the Knights in the final game of Round 27.

With a coveted spot in the top eight on the line, this winner-takes-all clash will determine if the Dolphins can secure their historic first-ever finals berth in season number two. Rugby league fans couldn't have hoped for a more thrilling finale. All eyes will be on McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle this Sunday at 4:05 pm.

TEAM CHANGES:

Dolphins captain Jesse Bromwich has been cleared to return after passing concussion protocols, along with Kodi Nikorima, who has been named on the bench. Bromwich's return pushes Mark Nicholls back to the bench, while Kenny Bromwich will move into the starting lock position. In a further boost, Dolphins' hard-hitting forward Felise Kaufusi is set to play after the NRL judiciary downgraded his dangerous contact charge from Round 26.

For the Knights, co-captain Tyson Frizell is back in the starting lineup after clearing concussion protocols, shifting Brodie Jones to the bench. Meanwhile, Tyson Gamble and Kai Pearce-Paul are expected to return from injury, although Pearce-Paul remains listed among the reserves.

EVERYTHING ON THE LINE:

With the Dragons losing last Saturday, the race for the last spot in the top eight was blown wide open. The result left the door open for the Dolphins and Knights, with both securing convincing wins over their opponents in round 26.

While final-round games have held significance over teams' chances of playing finals in the past, rarely do fans get to experience a game where the result directly determines that the winner secures finals football and the loser misses out.

The Dolphins and the Knights have 28 competition points, with 11 victories and 12 losses. Both teams are chasing the all-important 12th victory, and the luck of the draw has presented them with an opportunity in the last game of the final round of the regular season.

Both teams know what is on the line—Winner takes all.

CLASH OF THE WEEK:

This week's key match-up shines the spotlight on the Fullbacks: Trai Fuller and Kalyn Ponga, two game-changers capable of turning the tide in an instant.

Fuller, though smaller in stature, never shies away from the challenge. He's fearless in charging straight into the defensive line, often slipping through tackles to gain crucial extra metres. His ability to make devastating supporting runs and weave through broken play makes him a constant threat. He is a Dolphin crowd favourite who has built a reputation for hard work and reliability in his short first-grade career.

On the other side is Queensland representative Kalyn Ponga, a player who commands control of the game. With the ball in hand, he's one to watch closely. Ponga's signature hop-step can leave defenders grasping at thin air as he beats them on the outside. Drawing from his touch football roots, he has the footwork to bewilder defensive lines, creating gaps that lead to electrifying plays.