NRLQ Dolphins play out thrilling draw

The Dolphins and Broncos could not be separated in a thrilling grand final rematch, playing out a 32-all draw in a high-scoring contest at BMD Kougari Oval.

The Dolphins entered the clash full of confidence after three consecutive victories but found themselves under pressure early as the Broncos raced out of the blocks, crossing for two tries in the opening six minutes to take control of the contest.

The Dolphins responded through a break from Toby Batten up the middle, setting the platform for Kilarney Lavender to cross on the left edge in the 16th minute. Just four minutes later, Lauloto Salei burrowed over from dummy-half to keep the visitors within striking distance.

Despite the fightback, the Broncos maintained their momentum and took a 22-12 lead into the halftime break.

The second half belonged to the Dolphins, with Toby Batten sparking the comeback. The five-eighth crossed in the 42nd minute before backing it up seven minutes later, taking the short side, producing a stunning line break and half-field run to score his second, which shifted the momentum firmly in the Dolphins' favour, helping launch the side back into the contest.

Momentum continued to swing the Dolphins’ way when Mitchell Rogers crossed in the 53rd minute, helping his side claim the lead for the first time in the afternoon.

The Broncos responded with a try of their own but were unable to convert, leaving the scores locked at 26-all with 20 minutes remaining.

The Dolphins looked to have seized control once again when Amare Wynyard crossed in the 63rd minute, with the successful conversion giving the visitors a six-point advantage.

However, the Broncos refused to go away, scoring in the 70th minute. The conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the Dolphins narrowly ahead at 32-30.

With just four minutes remaining, the Broncos were awarded a penalty goal opportunity, which they successfully converted to level the scores at 32-all.

Neither side could find a late winner, with the full-time siren confirming a hard-fought draw between the two rivals.

The Dolphins now turn their attention to this Saturday’s clash against the Cowboys, which will serve as the curtain-raiser to the Dolphins NRL side’s match later that evening.