Dolphins V Falcons Hostplus Cup round 20 preview

The Redcliffe Dolphins are bracing for ‘semi-finals intensity’ when they face the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the final round of the regular Hostplus Cup season this weekend.

Head Coach Scott Murray says it will be a tough assignment for his side, which is third on the ladder behind the Falcons (second) and Burleigh Bears (first).

“They’ve been one of the standout teams all year and incredibly consistent,” he says.

“You’re not going to get a bad performance out of the Falcons. There’s a bit to play for. It’s going to be a semi-final intensity game. We’re both looking for an advantage. It should be a great afternoon.”

At this stage, he doesn’t know which Warriors’ players will be available for his side as the NRL club grapples with injuries ahead of their game against Penrith on Friday night.

“We’ll definitely get a few back but don’t know how many and who at this stage,” Murray explains.

The Dolphins go into the game off the back of a 49-10 win over the Northern Pride at Moreton Daily Stadium last Saturday in round 19.

Murray says it was a dominant performance, with hat-tricks to fullback Trai Fuller and second-rower Jeremiah Simbiken.

The Dolphins had more possession, were stronger in attack and defended better as reflected by the score.

Bryce Donovan kicked eight conversions from eight attempts and one field goal from one attempt, amassing 17 points for the game.

Simbiken not only scored tries but was also solid in defence, making 28 tackles. Setu Tu clocked up the most run metres, covering 273m in his 80 minutes, and captain and hooker Sheldon Pitama had a hand in a couple of tries, finding gaps and creating opportunities.

|“Sheldon has gone through the year without the accolades he’s deserved. He’s been really great for us in a number of positions and roles,” Murray says.|

“It was a bit of a break-out game for him … his speed in running the ball and he set up a couple of really nice tries,”

He said Bryce Donovan’s kicking game was a big improvement on the previous week – he had a 100 per cent strike rate last Saturday. In round 18, he only kicked three conversions from seven attempts.

“I spoke to him about it (after round 18) and he said he wouldn’t miss any more,” Murray says.

“That’s the sort of fella he is, he works hard on his game. His general kicking game was also good on the weekend.”

Falcons, a tough assignment

The Falcons are also coming off a convincing 36-18 win against the Mackay Cutters last weekend.

At the end of round 19 Burleigh Bears were top of the ladder on 29 points (13 wins, 1 draw, 4 losses); Sunshine Coast Falcons were second on 27 points (12 wins, 1 draw, 5 losses); and Redcliffe were third on 26 points (11 wins, 2 draws, 5 losses).

So, how important is a strong finish to the season?

|“I think it’s important to focus on our style of play and not get caught up in the result. It’s more that we’re making sure we have a style of play that will hold up in the big games and the big moments,” Murray says.|

He says if they’re playing well using a style that works for them, hopefully the results will come.

Murray says the squad is feeling good, which is a reflection of how they’re performing on the field and in the lead-up to games.

“They’re enjoying training and being around each other, and each other’s company, and keep improving,” he says.

“We identify areas we need to improve and just do it. They take it on really quickly and are keen learners. We’re enjoying footy and being able to play in the back end of the season.”

When asked what the side will need to do in the next few weeks to win the competition, Murray is quick to answer.

“We’ve got to be good defensively. There’s going to be some teams fire some pretty big shots over the course of the next few weeks. We’ll need to scramble when we need to and attack when we need to attack,” he says.

The Redcliffe Dolphins face the Sunshine Coast Falcons on Sunday at Sunshine Coast Stadium, with second place on the ladder up for grabs. Kick-off is at 3pm.