Dolphins veteran Felise Kaufusi is facing a potential suspension following his charge by the match review committee for an incident during Saturday night’s match. The 33-year-old forward was sin-binned early in the game against the Cowboys for a late, high hit on young player Tom Duffy. Referee Todd Smith issued the penalty after video replays demonstrated Kaufusi’s contact occurred with Duffy’s head while he was without the ball.
Commentators Greg Alexander and Andrew Voss weighed in on the tackle, suggesting Kaufusi’s technique was lacking and labelling the collision as head-on-head. Consequently, Kaufusi has received a grade three dangerous contact charge, which would result in a two-match suspension if he enters an early guilty plea. Should he choose to contest the charge at the judiciary and be unsuccessful, he risks missing three games.
This incident has overshadowed a remarkable win for the Dolphins, who triumphed with a resounding score of 58-4, placing them firmly in the top eight and showcasing their potential as serious contenders as the season progresses. Jack Bostock was a standout performer, scoring four tries, and the halfback duo of Kodi Nikorima and Isaiya Katoa continues to show significant improvement each week.
Looking ahead, the Dolphins are set to face a challenging match against Newcastle next week, followed by a home game against South Sydney and a bye during the Origin period.