Canberra Raiders News

The Dolphins secured their fourth consecutive NRL victory, defeating Canberra 30-22 despite numerous player absences and controversial officiating decisions.

The Canberra Times

The Dolphins have shaken off a plethora of star absences to secure a fourth-straight NRL victory for the first time in club history, powering past Canberra 30-22 at GIO Stadium.

Without fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, winger Selwyn Cobbo, prop Thomas Flegler and lock Max Plath because of State of Origin duties, the Dolphins faced an uphill battle to overcome last year's minor premiers on Thursday night.

Star centre Herbie Farnworth (hamstring tightness) and five-eighth Kodi Nikorima (hamstring) also compounded their player shortage, but they looked unfazed as their pulsating attack and solid defence caused havoc for the Raiders.

However, questions will be asked of the officials after a series of 50/50 calls fell the visitors' way, including most crucially a second-half decision that led to a penalty goal.

See more...

Isaiya Katoa shines in Dolphins' 30-22 win, hinting at a future State of Origin role despite current star Nathan Cleary.

The Australian

There will come a time in the not too distant future when this time of year will see Dolphins' star Isaiya Katoa focused on playing State of Origin for NSW.

Nathan Cleary might be the Blues' number seven for as long as he is fit and wants to be, but there is no doubt Katoa's time will come.

Until then, coach Kristian Woolf and his team will savour every minute they can with Katoa after the halfback had his fingerprints on everything to lead the undermanned Phins' to a 30-22 victory over the Raiders in Canberra on Thursday night.

Missing Origin bound quartet Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Selwyn Cobbo, Max Plath and Tom Flegler, along with the injured Herbie Farnworth and Kodi Nikorima, the Phins won for the fourth time on the trot, a first for the club.

Despite both sides missing plenty of high priced cattle, it was an entertaining game. The first half produced seven tries - four to the Dolphins and three to the Raiders, the second just one apiece.

See more...