Match Preview: Round 10 – Dolphins v Eels

Despite their brief history, the two sides have already delivered a pair of high-scoring, one-sided contests, with each club claiming a 28-point victory in their previous meetings.

Both teams find themselves in the bottom four on the competition ladder, making this a crucial match as they look to gain momentum and climb the standings.

While inconsistent form for both sides makes this a challenging game to predict, a closer look at their performances suggests the Dolphins may hold a slight edge, having scored more points and conceded fewer overall.

However, the Eels' attack has looked sharper since the return of Mitchell Moses, whose playmaking and kicking game have added a much-needed spark to their structure and play.

Team Changes

Dolphins Vice Captain Felise Kaufusi will return to the front row this week, with Mark Nicholls moving from the starting lineup to the interchange bench. Kurt Donoghoe also returns, starting at hooker for the first time since Round 3 of 2023. Donoghoe's inclusion comes as a result of complications from a cut Jeremy Marshall-King received earlier this season.

The Eels have made one change to their side for this week, with Matt Doorey coming on to the bench for the injured Sam Tuivaiti.

Clash of the week

This week's match highlights two veteran forwards with a combined total of 461 NRL and 57 representative appearances. Felise Kaufusi and Junior Paulo are both recognised leaders in their respective packs, with each wearing the number 10 jersey in this week's match as they go head-to-head in the front row.

Returning from injury this week, Felise Kaufusi is set to make an impact in his first game since Round 7. Known for his hard-hitting style as an enforcer, Kaufusi's defensive skills are vital for the Dolphins' success. Whether he is forcing an error from a ball carrier, dislodging the ball with a bone-rattling tackle, or setting the tone with his aggressive line speed, Kaufusi's presence in the middle of the field will be focused on limiting the opposition's offensive output.

Junior Paulo will be one of the Eels' players aiming to counter Kaufusi's defensive efforts directly. The powerful prop sets the tone for the Eels with a mindset focused on strong ball carries. He averages 106 meters per game, with nearly 40 post-contact meters, challenging the resilience of opposing defences. Stretching and breaking defensive lines is his specialty, creating opportunities for his team to capitalise on.