Phins find their flow early By Chase Christensen

(Article written before Round 4) 

The Dolphins look set for their most exciting season since entering the NRL, with the opening three rounds already showing exactly why. With key players returning and their trademark attacking style beginning to click, the Phins have wasted no time reminding fans that they are one of the most unpredictable and entertaining sides in the competition. 

Their season began on a Sunday afternoon at Suncorp Stadium against the South Sydney Rabbitohs, in what quickly developed into a high quality, free flowing contest. The return of Herbie Farnworth, after missing nearly all of last season, was a major boost and immediately strengthened the Dolphins’ backline, giving them an extra layer of creativity and strike. 

True to the nature of Queensland teams, the Dolphins delivered a rollercoaster performance. They showed flashes of brilliance in attack and looked dangerous whenever they shifted the ball, but lapses in defence proved costly. In the end, they fell 40-30 in an entertaining opener. While it was not the result they were after,the performance hinted at the attacking potential that would soon come to life. 

Round two brought a Queensland derby against the Gold Coast Titans, a fixture that typically produces points and drama. However, the opening stages were anythingbut entertaining. The first half was riddled with errors from both sides, and Suncorp Stadium was unusually quiet as neither team could build momentum. 

When the Titans pushed out to a 14-0 lead early in the second half, the Dolphins appeared to be heading toward a second straight loss. But, just as they had shown glimpses the week before, they found another gear when it mattered most. 

Leaning into their natural, upbeat style of play, the Dolphins began to take risks and shift the ball with confidence. The change in approach paid immediate dividends. Three quick tries turned the game completely on its head, stunning the Titans and reigniting the crowd. 

The highlight came in the 72nd minute, when Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow produced a moment of brilliance, finishing off a kick to score a crucial try that gave the Dolphins the lead. From there, it became a test of composure and resilience. Strong defence in the final five minutes ensured they held on for a hard fought and important first win of the season. 

That victory carried extra significance given the challenge that awaited them in round three. A trip to Sydney to face the Cronulla Sharks loomed as a genuine test, especially with the Sharks coming off a physical encounter against Penrith the week prior. 

It was the Dolphins’ first away game of the season, and they approached it with intent. A strong first half saw them take a 16-10 lead into the break, putting themselves in a perfect position to push for an upset. 

What followed was one of the most complete performances the club has produced in some time. The Dolphins dominated the second half, controlling possession, executing their sets and capitalising on their opportunities. They ran away with the match 38-10, keeping Cronulla scoreless after halftime in a statementperformance. 

Their discipline was a standout, finishing with an impressive 85% completion rate, which laid the foundation for their attacking success. It was a performance that combined flair with control, showing a level of maturity that will excite both fans and coaching staff. 

The win capped off back-to-back victories following their opening round loss and firmly put the Dolphins’ season on track. More importantly, it demonstrated that this side is capable of adapting, learning and delivering under pressure. 

If they can maintain this balance between structure and their naturally exciting style of play, the Dolphins will not just be entertaining, they will be genuinely dangerous in 2026.