In the highly anticipated Battle of Brisbane, the Dolphins have taken a commanding lead of 24-6 over the Broncos at halftime, even with the disadvantage of playing a man short due to a sin binning.
The match began with a high level of intensity from both teams, reflecting the significance of this game for their respective seasons. Wayne Bennett’s Dolphins struck first, with Jamayne Isaako finishing off a well-executed play on the right edge, thanks to the creative efforts of Herbie Farnworth who provided the assist. Shortly after Isaako’s try, Dolphins’ player Felise Kaufusi was sent to the sin bin for a high tackle on Adam Reynolds, who had to leave the field for a head injury assessment. The exchange between Kaufusi and Reynolds highlighted the game’s fierce nature.
Fox League commentator Dan Ginnane noted the potential influence of reputations on decisions, suggesting that the high-profile players might affect refereeing. Following the penalty, the Broncos fumbled the ball, which Fox League’s Greg Alexander labeled as “poetic justice.”
As tensions rose, Ginnane observed that the game was becoming increasingly confrontational. The Dolphins quickly added to their score with Jake Averillo touching down after a sharp play initiated by Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow on the right edge.
Brisbane’s Jesse Arthars made a significant break from deep in his own half, attempting to pass to Selwyn Cobbo. Unfortunately for the Broncos, the pass was slightly premature, allowing the Dolphins’ defense to intercept and prevent what seemed like a certain try.
Despite this setback, the Broncos managed to get onto the scoreboard with a rare try by Pat Carrigan. They tried to build momentum following this score and had their share of field position, but a knock-on by Jordan Riki allowed Tabuai-Fidow to seize the opportunity and score the Dolphins’ third try of the night. Ginnane described this as a memorable moment in the Battle of Brisbane.
The action continued with Ray Stone charging at the Broncos’ defensive line off the kickoff. He was hit high by Xavier Willison, who was then sent to the sin bin, leaving the Broncos a man short. The Dolphins took advantage of this numerical superiority; after Farnworth broke through the Broncos’ defense, he found Averillo in support, who scored his second try and the Dolphins’ fourth of the first half.
As halftime approached, Ginnane remarked on the urgency facing the Broncos, stating they had “40 minutes to save their season.” The situation for Brisbane worsened just before the break when Kotoni Staggs was forced off the field due to a reported groin injury, further compounding their difficulties.
