The latest in a series of Queensland derby matches to start 2023 will see the Dolphins take on the Titans for the first time, with both sides reeling from heavy last-up defeats.
The Gold Coast experienced defeat for the first time since Round 4 when they were blown away in the final half hour by the ladder-leading Broncos last week, with Tino Fa'asuamaleaui's sin-binning on 61 minutes not helping their cause in a 43-26 loss.
Wayne Bennett's Dolphins meanwhile produced an excellent first half effort to lead the Rabbitohs, but had no answer in the second 40 minutes as they leaked 30 unanswered points in a 36-14 loss.
These two outfits employ different styles on the ball, with the Dolphins tending to dominate possession this year off the back of an average completion rate of 80 percent, compared to the Titans who complete at around 75 percent.
The two prior Queensland derby games at Suncorp Stadium this year have attracted crowds above 43,000, with this week marking the Dolphins' third trip to the venue in 2023 and the Titans' first.
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Team News
Dolphins: No late changes for Wayne Bennett's men, with Felise Kaufusi back from suspension in place of Kenny Bromwich. Youngster Kurt Donoghoe retains his place on the bench with JJ Collins 18th man.
Titans: AJ Brimson is confirmed to make his return from a hamstring injury and will start at fullback. That means Jayden Campbell reverts to the bench after playing in the No.1 jersey for the past two games. Klese Haas is the man to make way and is now the replacement player. Thomas Mikaele will play his first game for the club after signing mid-season.
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Stat Attack
- The Dolphins have conceded 96 points in their past three games.
- The Titans have won two of their past three games at Suncorp Stadium.
- Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett has won 11 of his past 12 games coaching against the Titans.
- Titans winger Alofiana Khan-Pereira has scored seven tries in his past five games.
- Dolphins captain Jesse Bromwich has won 15 games from 17 against the Titans.
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.