The Ray White Noosa Dolphins A grade returned to the winner’s circle in dramatic fashion with a 45 – 10 victory over Wynnum last Saturday.
Following the disappointment the previous week, the Dolphins’ improvement in generating clean quick ball from breakdowns resulted in numerous free flowing attacking raids.
“The clean ball gave our speedy back three the room and space they needed,“ said assistance coach Mark Winder.
“It was great for us to see what we can do. Our discipline however was another issue. We continue to invite the opposition back into the game with 17 penalties conceded. We saw what Maroochydore did to us as a result last week and that will continue to be the case if we don’t get that right.“
With the added pressure of injuries to key players from the previous week, depth could have been a challenge for the Dolphins, but the performance of the replacements was very impressive.
Man of the Match and captain for the day Ben Ashman stood out ably supported by his partner in crime Kai Atkinson, making his A grade run debut for 2025, putting on a display of aggressive pilfering and defence they are known for. It was a day for the back rowers with Alex Tollis also in the player points with the defensive effort evident with the Wynnum side not crossing the Dolphins line until the 78th minute of the match.
The Dolphins reserve grade also kept the scoreboard attendant busy in their 51-18 victory. Reon Fortington putting on an impressive display finding himself again in the player points along with Jack Davies and man of the match Harry O’Conner.
With the Dolphins celebrating their annual Ladies Day, it was only fitting that the Ray While Noosa women’s team started the days on field festivities with a runaway 86-0 victory over their Brisbane Wynnum rivals, with nine individual players scoring tries. Despite a four try haul by Meg Fortune, it was fullback Bronte Wilson earning player of the match honours. ‘It was a great performance by the women today, but despite the score, credit has to go to the Wynnum girls who whilst outplayed, never stopped competing’ coach Damien Cogill said. “Shelby Beardmore, who scored her first senior try, and Stevie Moana were again very strong all around the paddock today being awarded the 2 and 1 points respectively in the players’ honours. Bridget Duncan was also awarded the 1 point for her try scoring display. It was also great to see Keeva Waters, a dolphin junior make her senior debut,“ Cogill said.
Next weekend see the men take on last years grand final opponents University at Sippy Downs in what presents as another exciting match. University sits equal second with the Dolphins on the A Grade table so much to be gained by the victors. The University side sits one behind the dolphins second place on the reserve grade ladder.
The Dolphin women have a bye this weekend returning to take on current premiers Nambour on 24 May at Sunshine Beach.
“That evening, we are having our formal 40th year celebration at Peppers,“ Dolphin President Chris Burton said. “It promises to be a great night to reflect on our history and catch up with old friends. Plenty of great food, refreshments and entertainment is promised.“
This Saturday matches at Sippy Downs commence with Reserve grade at 2pm and A Grade 3.30pm.
For all up to date Dolphin’s news, including ticket purchases for the 40th, are available on the Dolphins’ Facebook site.
