Dolphins Ready to Challenge Broncos in Revitalised Derby Clash
The Dolphins are a vastly improved outfit and are far better equipped to challenge the Brisbane Broncos in their upcoming derby clash, according to coach Kristian Woolf. The two Queensland rivals are set to lock horns in the highly anticipated “Battle of Brisbane” this Friday night, with the Dolphins entering the contest with renewed confidence.
A significant boost for the Dolphins is the return of key prop Thomas Flegler, who has recovered from a rib injury that sidelined him for their impressive 38-10 victory over the Cronulla Sharks last week. Flegler’s absence, along with that of co-captain Tom Gilbert, was felt in the previous derby encounter. However, the Dolphins have since bolstered their squad with significant new talent.
The Dolphins’ attacking prowess has been further enhanced by the recruitment of former Broncos flyer Selwyn Cobbo, adding considerable strike power to their backline. Defensively, the team has also become more formidable with the addition of England international lock Morgan Knowles, bringing crucial defensive grit and experience to the forward pack.
Reflecting on their last derby meeting, Woolf recalled a match where the Dolphins held a commanding 28-14 lead after 50 minutes, seemingly in control of the game. At that juncture, the Broncos occupied ninth spot on the NRL ladder, while the Dolphins were nestled within the top eight. However, a late surge from the Broncos, ignited by a Reece Walsh 40/20 kick, saw them storm back to secure a dramatic 38-28 victory. This win marked the beginning of a remarkable run for Brisbane, who went on to contest the Grand Final. In stark contrast, the Dolphins faltered in the following week, suffering a heavy 58-30 defeat to Manly, which effectively ended their finals aspirations.
Woolf is adamant that the current Dolphins squad is a far cry from the one that let such a strong lead slip. “We’re a better team than that at the moment,” Woolf stated, highlighting the team’s current form and their improved defensive efforts over recent weeks. “We’ve still got a lot of things to prove, but I think we are a better team and we’re heading in that direction.”
The Broncos themselves demonstrated their resilience last season, securing six victories when trailing by 10 points or more. They again showcased this tenacity in their most recent outing, overcoming an 18-14 deficit against Melbourne Storm after being down 14-0.
Woolf acknowledged the inherent danger posed by the Broncos, particularly their ability to find game-changing plays under pressure. “The last derby showed me just how dangerous the Broncos can be and when they’re under pressure they’re a team that can find moments, find plays and find points off the back of that,” he commented.
Despite the formidable reputation of their opponents, the Dolphins are approaching the game with a sense of self-belief. “We’re under no illusions as to how big the game is and how tough the game’s going to be. At the same time, we’re confident in what we can do,” Woolf asserted.
The return of Flegler, a seasoned Queensland and Test representative prop, is expected to significantly bolster the Dolphins’ confidence. “He’s a big in for us. It’s a great occasion for him and I think he’ll go out and enjoy it,” Woolf said. He further elaborated on Flegler’s eagerness to return, noting, “He hasn’t played much in the last two years and being out last week, I could see that he was itching to play and really keen to prove his availability. He is very much doing that.”
The inclusion of Flegler not only strengthens the Dolphins’ front-row but also brings a level of experience and leadership crucial for such a high-stakes encounter. His presence alongside other key forwards will be vital in matching the physicality of the Broncos pack and providing a solid platform for the Dolphins’ attacking threats. The “Battle of Brisbane” promises to be a compelling contest, with the Dolphins appearing more than capable of upsetting their more fancied rivals.
