Turning lifeline into Dolphins record

Jamayne Isaako will continue his record-setting run for Dolphins on Friday (8pm) against the Dragons – three years after doubting his future in the sport.

Isaako is the only foundation player to have figured in all 60 NRL fixtures since Dolphins joined the competition in 2023.

He will extend that to 61 games at Suncorp Stadium this week, when he turns 29, as Dolphins aim to leapfrog Dragons into the top eight.

Whether they succeed or not – pre-match odds favour Dolphins – Isaako has reflected on a remarkable turnaround in his career.

“Didn’t go too great at Titans and at the backend of that year (I was not) not too sure I even wanted to play footy,” the winger said.

“But coming to this club, under great coaches like Woolfy (Kristian Woolf) and Wayne (Bennett), really helped me turn my career round and play consistent footy.

“Woolfy is a good coach. He’s played a big part in me being able to turn my career around coming to the Dolphins. Wayne’s had a hand to play in that too.

“I pride myself on trying to get my body right, preparation heading into games, professionalism around recovery, doing everything to be your best on game day.

“I think that’s something I’ve really knuckled down to in the last couple of years.”

The ex-Bronco has a career record of 68 tries from 148 NRL games – including five tries, 51 goals (122 points) for Dolphins this season, the last of his contract.

“I’d love to stay here,” Isaako said, “try to finish my career and play some more games for the Dolphins, (but) not thought too much about it to be honest.”

However, the 28-year-old is focused on Friday’s showdown, saying it is a “big challenge” and “great opportunity” to reach the top eight.

“Coming off the back of a bye the boys are feeling fresh,” Isaako said, “(we) had a couple of days off to get ourselves right and hopefully get our season on track.

“Form comes down to us. Performances like the 'Dogs (44-8 win) … we were able to put on a clinical performance off the back of a great week’s prep and routine.

“I think when we get that right we give ourselves a chance - and set ourselves up for the performance we want.”

Isaako also praised Kurt Donoghoe who suffered a badly broken nose in the stunning victory at ladder leaders Bulldogs two weeks ago.

“Coming back (after just 11 minutes off the field) from an injury like that, certainly inspired the boys, inspired the team,” Isaako said.

“Having blokes like that turn up even when busted, shows the characters we have.”