Dolphins V Blackhawks preview

The Redcliffe Dolphins’ Hostplus Cup side is on an eight-game winning streak as they head to Ayr today for their round 16 clash against the Townsville Blackhawks tomorrow (3pm kick-off).

They’re looking to make it nine wins in a row, after a dominant 54-16 win over reigning premiers Norths 54-16 at Moreton Daily Stadium last Saturday night.

The Dolphins’ five-eighth Daejarn Asi set up a try and scored one in the opening 10 minutes, making the side’s intentions clear to the delight of fans.

They went to the shed at half-time leading 22-10 and only allowed Norths to score once in the second half, while putting on 32 points of their own.

“It was really pleasing. They’re last year’s premiers and the way we’re playing … there’s good signs there,” Head Coach Scott Murray says.

The side rose to challenge of defending well against a side renowned for its attack.

|“I think it’s the best one (game) of the year for us,” he says.|

The Warriors’ boys were outstanding, Ronald Volkman racked up 22 points – one try and eight conversion kicks (from nine attempts). Setu Tu crossed the line three times, Jackson Frei twice and Daejarn Asi once.

“The Warriors’ boys, they were magnificent. The two players that came back – Volkman and Asi – were leaders for us. That made it easy when we tried to put some points on the board and make the most of the opportunities that we had,” Murray says.

“Daejarn Asi is playing NRL this week. It’s a really good reward for him. He was outstanding,”

“Dunamis Lui, that was one of his better games for the year and Eliesa Katoa was really strong.”

In a big loss for the side, prop Lachlan Timm is out for about a month and will have surgery on his hand.

“We’re going to have to step up. It’s a good opportunity for some of the other guys to come in and do a good job,” Murray says.

He’s confident Trai Fuller will return this weekend after recovering from concussion.

Travelling to Ayr means the team named will be team taking the field tomorrow, with no late changes for players called up for Warriors’ duties.

What to expect from the Blackhawks

“They’re a strong team. They’re just sitting on the back end for the (top) eight. It’s a big game for both of us,” Murray says.

They have an experienced half in Robert Lui and will ask a lot of the Dolphins’ defence.

“If we let them get on a roll, they’re hard to stop. We will have to be at our best,” he says.

So, what’s the plan in the run-up to the finals?

“We’ve not really spoken about it. We haven’t thought that far ahead and are focused on week-to-week, the team changes a fair bit,” Murray explains.

He’s happy with how the side is developing.

“We’re in a good position, even when the Warriors’ boys don’t play. This week, we won’t have those who did well for us last week but we’re still in a good position and are bringing in Bryce Donovan and Cody Hunter,” he says.

“The depth and the quality that we can bring in is the best thing and they’re ready too. When they do come in, they do make a difference for us.”

And he expects a strong performance from Hunter, pictured, who has just secured a train and trial contract with the Dolphins’ NRL squad. 

Read our profile story on Hunter here