Fresh off a three-week break in the NRLQ Series, the Dolphins returned with composure and grit to clinch a 24–22 victory over the North Queensland Cowboys in a tense Cairns encounter, sealing an important win on the road.
In humid conditions at Barlow Park, the Dolphins overcame a five-try Cowboys performance with clinical finishing and goal-kicking precision, turning four tries into a decisive two-point result.
First Half Arm Wrestle
The Dolphins made a sharp start, striking early through John Fineanganofo (10th minute) before Adaquix-Jeramiah Watts-Luke (13th minute) crossed shortly after to put the visitors on the front foot.
The Cowboys responded strongly, with Setaleki Mafileo grabbing a double (21st and 25th minutes) to level the contest, before Braith Dowson crossed in the 34th minute to give the home side momentum.
A successful conversion edged North Queensland ahead 14–12 at the break, capping a seesawing first half where both sides tested each other’s defensive resolve.
Second Half Fightback
The Cowboys extended their advantage early in the second stanza through Blake Dorahy (46th minute), but the Dolphins refused to fade.
Kilarney Lavender ignited the comeback in the 53rd minute, narrowing the gap before North Queensland hit back again via Xavier Hellyer (56th minute) to maintain their lead.
With the match on the line, the Dolphins delivered when it mattered most. Charlie Dickson crossed in the 71st minute, tying the game after Callum Bowles’ conversion, setting up a grandstand finish.
Moments later, Bowles held his nerve to slot a late penalty goal in the 77th minute, pushing the Dolphins ahead and ultimately sealing the 24–22 triumph.
"Our defence this year has been the standout but we are putting ourselves under pressure with errors and penalties, and have had to be good defensively, especially our goal line defence," said Dolphins NRLQ coach Scott Murray.
"A month between games isn’t ideal but we seemed to handle the break ok and the travel up to Cairns on the morning of the game starting the game well and getting to an early lead."
"Adaquix Watts- Luke was one of our best, he is safe at the back and dangerous with the ball in hand and Kilarney Lavender continued his strong performances this year."
The Dolphins return back to Premier Park in Nundah for their next clash, hosting the Titans on Sunday afternoon.
