In a thrilling encounter, the Dolphins secured a hard-fought 20-16 victory over the Eels on Thursday night, thanks to two stunning try-saving tackles in the closing moments of the match. The most crucial of these tackles occurred in the final half-minute when Dolphins fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow halted Eels star Dylan Brown on the left side, preventing a late Eels comeback. This critical play came after Brown lost possession of the ball during the tackle, which robbed the Eels of a potential game-tying opportunity.
Earlier in the match, Dolphins centre Herbie Farnworth also made a vital defensive effort, thwarting a try by Will Penisini in the 76th minute. Brown, reflecting on the tension of the final play, remarked to Nine’s Emma Lawrence, “The only thing I could do was a right-foot step… I dummied and he caught me straight back. I dunno, he’s that quick.” Brown felt that his teammate, Josh Addo-Carr, should have continued the play instead of passing, adding, “It’s pretty embarrassing dropping it there.”
The match unfolded at CommBank Stadium, where both teams displayed fierce determination and skill, making for an exhilarating spectacle for rugby league fans. As a testament to the suspenseful nature of the contest, the Dolphins’ defence held firm under pressure, ultimately determining the outcome in their favour. With both teams showcasing exceptional talent, the encounter solidified the competitive spirit of the league.