Match Preview: Round 19 – Dolphins v Sharks

The Dolphins are back at Kayo Stadium with a point to prove, returning home for a crucial showdown against the Sharks after last week's loss in Newcastle ended their eight-game winning streak.

The Sharks arrive full of confidence after defeating the Broncos, setting up a crucial clash between two sides locked on the same competition points and separated by just one place on the ladder.

The teams met earlier this season in Sydney, where the Dolphins produced one of their best performances of the year to claim a convincing 38-10 victory. History also favours the home side, with the Dolphins winning three of the four meetings between the clubs.

With both teams firmly in the finals race, Sunday's clash shapes as one of the biggest matches of the season.

Team News

Dolphins

The Dolphins receive a timely boost with Queensland representatives Max Plath and Thomas Flegler cleared to back up following State of Origin III.

Head Coach Kristian Woolf confirmed at Friday's captain's run that both forwards will take their place in the side, while Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Selwyn Cobbo and Jack Bostock will be rested after Origin.

Ray Stone is on track to return after missing last week's trip to Newcastle with soreness.

Sharks

The Sharks have also made changes following State of Origin.

Queensland back-rower Briton Nikora has been rested after passing a head injury assessment during Wednesday night's decider.

Blayke Brailey and Addin Fonua-Blake have both been added to the starting side, replacing Jayden Berrell and Jesse Colquhoun. Niwhai Puru has also been added to the extended bench.

Match-Up

Morgan Knowles vs Cameron McInnes

Two of the competition's toughest middle forwards will go head-to-head when Morgan Knowles and Cameron McInnes square off at lock.

McInnes brings a wealth of experience, having played 234 NRL matches and scored 27 tries across his career. In eight appearances this season, he has made 271 tackles at an outstanding 98 per cent efficiency while averaging 69 running metres per game.

Knowles has made an immediate impact in his debut NRL season. The English forward has featured in all 15 games, scored his first NRL try and become one of the Dolphins' defensive leaders, recording 523 tackles at 91 per cent efficiency while averaging 74 running metres per game.

With both players renowned for their relentless work rate, defensive intensity and leadership through the middle, their battle could play a decisive role in which side gains control of the contest.