Flegler’s Triumphant Return: Prop Shines Despite Dolphins Trial Loss
After an arduous 677-day layoff, Dolphins prop Thomas Flegler made a barnstorming comeback, notching a try and delivering a powerful performance in a pre-season trial against the Gold Coast Titans. While the Dolphins ultimately fell 24-12, Flegler’s 20-minute burst at Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe was a significant highlight, showcasing the dynamism that previously earned him representative honours for Queensland and Australia. This display offered an early indication of the formidable recovery made by the former Brisbane powerhouse from shoulder nerve damage that had sidelined him for nearly two years.
“It’s good to finally get back. It has been a long time coming,” Flegler remarked. “I’m just happy to finish the game unscathed. We had a good pre-season. All the hard work was done. It was just time to get out there, relax and have some fun. Hopefully I will punch out a few more minutes next week.”
The Gold Coast Titans, under the guidance of new coach Josh Hannay, presented a strong showing, particularly their defensive resolve, which will undoubtedly hearten their new mentor. Flegler, initially kept on the sidelines for the first half, entered the fray at halftime with the Dolphins trailing 10-0. His immediate impact was felt with a forceful defensive play, followed by two aggressive runs that nearly resulted in a try, demonstrating his renewed vigour.
His relentless pressure continued, forcing the Titans into a line dropout. Shortly after, a signature hit-and-spin manoeuvre close to the try line saw him successfully cross for a try, met with a broad grin. Further powerful surges from Flegler followed, and the Dolphins’ intensity noticeably waned when he departed the field, underscoring his crucial influence.
Titans’ Early Dominance and Emerging Talent
The first half belonged to the Titans, with impressive performances from their young lock, 19-year-old Cooper Bai, and front-rowers Moeaki Fotuaika and Klese Haas. New Titans recruit Lachlan Ilias, looking to reignite his career after two challenging seasons, proved a lively presence at five-eighth. His efforts were rewarded with an early try, set up by a clever grubber kick from centre Max Feagai.
Fotuaika, captaining the side, extended the Titans’ lead with a close-range try, making the score 10-0.
Second-Half Fightback and Key Contributions
Following Flegler’s try, the Dolphins began to find their rhythm. Giant prop Zac Garton then put the hosts in front. However, the Titans responded strongly. Gold Coast winger Dean Ieremia and impressive train-and-trial forward Phoenix Steinwede, the stepson of Kieran Foran, both scored to regain the lead for the Titans. Former Canterbury forward Kurtis Morrin sealed the victory for the visitors.
Among the Dolphins’ ranks, centre Selwyn Cobbo, playing his first match for the club, looked dangerous even with limited possession. A slick tip-on pass from Cobbo nearly resulted in a try, and one of his powerful runs left four defenders on the ground, highlighting his potent attacking threat.
Bai continued to impress throughout the opening 25 minutes, showcasing why he is so highly regarded by the Titans, even inking a contract extension last week. The Dolphins also witnessed a promising club debut from 18-year-old centre Brian Pouniu, who displayed signs of being a rare talent, offering a glimpse into the club’s future prospects.
