On March 28, 2025, the Brisbane Broncos secured a hard-fought victory over the Dolphins, winning 20-12 at Suncorp Stadium. The match, which drew a lively crowd of 44,278, showcased an impressive performance by Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki, who was named man of the match and won the coveted 'Battle Medal' for his two tries.
Shibasaki’s journey to this standout performance has been anything but straightforward. Just before the season began, he found himself on a development contract at the Broncos, his career seemingly in limbo. However, he has since emerged as a crucial player, proving his worth in the early stages of the season and helping the Broncos to a 3-1 record.
In a match dubbed the 'Battle of Brisbane,' the Broncos displayed their strength early on, with Shibasaki opening the scoring. His first try came after a perfectly timed pass from five-eighth Ben Hunt, who sent second-rower Jack Gosiewski through a gap. Shibasaki finished the play, giving the Broncos a 4-0 lead. Just minutes later, hooker Cory Paix took advantage of a lapse in the Dolphins' marker defense to extend the lead to 10-0.
The Dolphins, however, were not to be outdone. Isaiya Katoa, the Dolphins' half, seemed to have turned the tide when he appeared to secure a 40/20, but the call went against them, much to the dismay of the Dolphins' supporters. The ensuing possession saw the Broncos capitalize, with Kotoni Staggs scoring a crucial try just before half-time, solidifying Brisbane's lead at 16-6.
Staggs, who returned from a hip-flexor injury, was a force on the field, showcasing his strength and skill throughout the match. He pointed to the turf, signaling that Suncorp Stadium belonged to the Broncos, a moment that energized the home crowd. His individual effort to score just before the break was a testament to his determination and ability to rise in critical moments.
As the second half commenced, the Broncos continued their offensive push, with Shibasaki scoring his second try after a well-executed play involving Adam Reynolds and Reece Walsh. Despite the pouring rain, the Broncos maintained their momentum, and Shibasaki's performance was a highlight of the night.
Yet, the Dolphins were not ready to concede. Jake Averillo made a spectacular 90-meter run to score, narrowing the Broncos' lead to 20-12. Averillo's try was a bright spot for the Dolphins, who struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. Despite their best efforts, including a strong run by centre Herbie Farnworth, the Dolphins could not capitalize on their opportunities.
Defensively, the Broncos were tested multiple times, particularly in the final moments of the match when the Dolphins were awarded back-to-back six-again calls within the Broncos' 10-meter line. However, the experience of the Broncos' veteran players, including captain Adam Reynolds, proved vital as they held firm against the Dolphins' advances.
There were some concerning moments for the Dolphins, particularly with Jack Bostock leaving the field for a head injury assessment after a shoulder charge from Broncos back-rower Jordan Riki. Riki was put on report for the incident, which left Bostock in visible pain. Fortunately, he was able to return to the field later in the game.
In the post-match media conference, Broncos coach Michael Maguire praised his team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure. "We knew the Dolphins would come out strong, and we had to match their intensity," Maguire stated. "The boys did well to stick to the game plan and execute when it mattered most."
Captain Adam Reynolds echoed his coach's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and focus. "Every game in this league is tough, and we have to be on our game every week. The boys showed great character tonight, especially in the second half," Reynolds said.
The Broncos' victory places them in a solid position early in the season, while the Dolphins now face the daunting challenge of overcoming an 0-4 start, a feat no team has accomplished since Newtown in 1933 when they went on to win the title. The pressure is mounting for the Dolphins, who will need to regroup and find their footing in the upcoming rounds.
As the rain poured down and the final whistle blew, the Broncos celebrated their hard-earned victory, while the Dolphins were left to ponder their missed opportunities. With the season still young, both teams will be looking to build on this performance as they head into the next round of matches.
The Broncos will take confidence from this win, especially with players like Shibasaki and Staggs stepping up when it mattered most. Meanwhile, the Dolphins will need to address their slow starts and capitalize on the chances they create if they hope to turn their season around.
