Dolphins v Broncos: JMK in the frame; Finals still on offer
Top-eight hopes will be on the line when the Dolphins and Broncos face off in the fourth instalment of the Brisbane derby.
The two teams are locked on 26 points, two points behind the eighth-placed Dragons, in a four-team hunt for the final place in the NRL post-season.
The Broncos currently hold the advantage courtesy of their superior for and against, and sit in ninth ahead of the Dolphins, Knights and Raiders. All four teams sit on 26 points.
Given the tight nature of the competition, the outcome of Saturday's derby will effectively end the loser's season.
Brisbane have steadied the ship in recent weeks to keep their play-off hopes alive, claiming a commanding 30-24 win over the Eels last Friday.
The Dolphins have endured a worrying form slump over the past few months, winning just three of their last 12 games.
The second half of the slump has coincided with the absence of hooker Jeremy Marshall-King who has missed the past seven matches with a foot injury.
The Dolphins are hopeful he will return this weekend in what would be a major boost to their finals chances.
As for the Broncos, all eyes will be on star fullback Reece Walsh and prop Payne Haas who are looking to return from injury across the next two weeks.
Match: Dolphins v Broncos
Round 26 -
home Team
Dolphins
10th Position
away Team
Broncos
9th Position
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
Stat Attack
- The Dolphins have conceded 150 points in their past four games.
- Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs has scored six tries in his past six games.
- The Dolphins have won only four from nine at Suncorp Stadium this season.
- Broncos winger Selwyn Cobbo has scored six tries in three games against the Dolphins.
- Dolphins centre Jake Averillo will make his 100th NRL appearance.
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.
