Woolf: This is a great test of where we're at

After proving they can win the tough ones, the Dolphins now face a fresh challenge: a high-stakes clash against the red-hot Warriors this Saturday.

Fresh off a gritty win over Parramatta, head coach Kristian Woolf said his side is embracing the challenge and ready to prove themselves once again.

“We showed we can win tough,” Woolf told media this morning.

“Our defence held up really well against a team that challenged us in a lot of ways. That performance came at the right time.”

The Warriors currently sit second on the NRL ladder and have rattled off five straight wins, but Woolf believes the Dolphins are hitting their stride at just the right moment.

“This week’s a big challenge and a great test of where we’re at. 

“We’re not thinking too far ahead. The focus is on backing up the strong preparation and energy we showed last week.”

A key matchup to watch will be the battle of the halfbacks, with Dolphins playmaker Isaiya Katoa going head-to-head with Warriors No.7 Luke Metcalf.

Woolf was full of praise for Katoa whose energy, speed and game control, has proven pivotal to the success of the Dolphins.

“He’s exceptional in every way – the way he carries himself, the way he wants to learn, and the consistency he’s showing for a younger player.”

He’s developing into a leader and helping others around him improve too.”

With belief growing, the Dolphins are determined to keep building at Saturday's showdown at Suncorp Stadium.