Dolphins, Wayne Bennett proved NRL wrong in QLD derby win

The Dolphins’ fairytale start in the NRL continued as the side pulled off a stunning win against all odds to continue to confound expectations.

The Dolphins are loving it. Photo: Getty Images and Fox Sports

When will rugby league fans learn — never count out a Wayne Bennett coached team.

The Dolphins have once again stunned the NRL, pulling off a 32-22 win over the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville, despite a huge injury list heading into the game.

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Already into its third halves combination of Isaiya Katoa and Kodi Nikorima due to the injuries of Sean O’Sullivan and Anthony Milford, as well as losing inspirational skipper Jesse Bromwich before the start of the match.

With the likes of Felise Kaufusi and Tesi Nui also out injured, the Dolphins were running light on troops.

The side came into the season expected to finish on the bottom half of the ladder after being unable to snag a genuine superstar.

Despite having been in the conversation, the Dolphins missed the likes of Harry Grant, Reece Walsh, Kalyn Ponga, Reed Mahoney, Ryan Matterson, Dylan Brown and Cameron Munster to name a few.

The Dolphins were valued in a Daily Telegraph roster valuation at the beginning of the season worth $4m less than the Roosters.

Wayne Bennett like you've rarely seen him. Photo: Fox Sports

But after six rounds, the Dolphins are 4-2, only genuinely being beaten in their round five clash against the Dragons.

While the Dolphins weren’t able to land high-profile game-breakers on the field, the Moneyball style approach as well as the superstar coach in Bennett have proved to be the difference.

Speaking on Fox League, Brent Tate Bennett’s effect has been profound.

“I think we can’t ever underestimate the effect Wayne’s had on this franchise,” Tate said.

“The way they played tonight, they played tough, they played with resilience, they defended their absolute hearts out and individual players Wayne Bennett has brought to that club are starting to recognise their potential.

“It was amazing just to sit back and see what they did tonight because they were under so much pressure in the second half.

“I know we talk about it all the time but the impact that Wayne Bennett has had on this group and this franchise already, it is incredible.”

The Dolphins are on fire. Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

Fans were blown away by the performance as the Dolphins once again exceeded expectations.

I was alive years old when “who would want to play for Wayne Bennett? He’s past it.” #NRLCowboysDolphins

— James Smith (@JamesSmith1001) April 7, 2023

The Dolphins have so many good players and are combining perfectly. Hard to imagine now that their chances in 2023 were written off by so many so quickly. Bennett has them playing so well as a unit. #NRLCowboysDolphins#PhinsUp

— James Smith (@JamesSmith1001) April 7, 2023

Plenty of character in this Dolphins team. Next man up mentality. Great resilience shown in defense in that 2nd half. @NRLonNine

— Peter Psaltis (@peterp79) April 7, 2023

The Phins are up again, Wayne Bennett is a genius. Gritty defence, refused to give up. Well done @dolphinsnrl

— Ryley McKay (@Ryleyjmckay) April 7, 2023

The @NRL should sign Wayne Bennett just to start new clubs. SUPERCOACH 👑 https://t.co/YRFY4bK4Pq

— KingKumul (@KingKumul) April 7, 2023

I can’t believe people thought a Wayne Bennett coached team would win the spoon.

— RAT MUGS 🏆🏆 (@TheEroticGamer) April 7, 2023

The win lifts the Dolphins into the top four, although they are likely to slide as the weekend goes on, but it’s just a sign of how well the side is going.

Speaking after the game, Bennett admitted he was happy the Dolphins continued to turn up in defence thoughtout the second half.

“It was a great night for rugby league, great crowd, great performance by both teams,” Bennett said.

“They just tried their hearts out and got away with it in the end. There was some great football played. If you left here tonight disappointed, you’re pretty hard to please.”

Originally published as Dolphins, Wayne Bennett proved NRL wrong in QLD derby win