Looking for strong run-up to finals

The Dolphins have not suffered a loss in 11 games, a new club record, and are looking to finish the regular Hostplus Cup season in the same fashion.

It starts this weekend with their round 19 clash against Northern Pride at Moreton Daily Stadium (kick-off at 6pm).

The Redcliffe Dolphins survived an early scare against the Souths Logan Magpies last Sunday and were down 16-12 at half-time, before shifting up a gear in the second half and scoring four tries in the 34-22 win.

They are now third on the ladder behind the Falcons (second) and Bears (first).

They face eighth-placed Northern Pride on Saturday night before taking on the Falcons in the final round at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Sunday, August 28 (kick-off at 3pm).

Redcliffe Dolphins Head Coach Scott Murray says last weekend’s clash was a high-quality game and as expected, the Magpies had a few NRL players in their ranks who performed well.

|“We didn’t have a lot of possession in the first half but when we were able to get the ball back and control it, we were pretty good in the back end of the game,” he says.|

Murray says the right edge performed well and Jeremiah Simbiken was one of the standouts.

“His form continues to get better. He’s been great for us,” he says.

“Rocco Berry was dangerous every time he touched the ball, then there was Trai at the back there. He’s been great.”

The side have been working on their kicking game at training this week ahead of this weekend’s clash against the Northern Pride.

“The Pride have some really good outside backs that can carry the ball. We will need to kick well and chase well,” he says.

“They will be desperate and have got to win to keep their season going.

“They played us earlier in the year and they beat us. We know what they’re capable of.”

Who’s playing this week?

Murray is expecting a similar line-up this weekend, with halfback Cameron Cullen keen to back-up after his return to Queensland Cup last week following neck surgery.

“He’s pretty sore after not playing for a while. We’ve given him a light week, but he’s keen to go again,” he says.

Having Cullen back is a well-timed bonus for the side.

“It’s a gift that we probably didn’t expect was going to happen. He’s been there before, been in lots of big games and knows what’s required,” Murray says.

|“It’s not just what he brings personally as an individual to the team but the affect he has on other team members that will hold us in good stead going into the semis.”|

Murray is happy with how the side is looking and the confidence they’re showing on the field but says it’s important they finish the regular season well.

They’re taking one game at a time and aren’t thinking too deeply about facing the Falcons in round 20.