The NRL action heated up on Friday night as the Dolphins took on the Melbourne Storm at Suncorp Stadium, marking a pivotal Round 7 clash in the 2025 season. The Dolphins emerged victorious with a stunning 44-22 win, showcasing their offensive prowess against a Storm side missing key players.
In a significant blow for Melbourne, their captain and star hooker Harry Grant was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Coach Craig Bellamy confirmed that Grant is expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks, a crucial setback for the Storm as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the league. "It's a big loss for us; Harry is a leader on and off the field," Bellamy told Fox League prior to the match.
With Grant absent, Bronson Garlick stepped up to take over at hooker, while Kane Bradley made his first appearance of the season on the wing. The Storm also welcomed Joe Chan to the interchange, adding depth as they faced a Dolphins team that had been gaining momentum.
The Dolphins, led by fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, fielded a strong lineup that included Kodi Nikorima at five-eighth and Isaiya Katoa at halfback. They capitalized on the Storm's defensive lapses, with Tabuai-Fidow's speed and agility causing problems throughout the match. The team had recently seen a shift in their lineup due to injuries, with Jeremy Marshall-King ruled out with a leg laceration, prompting Max Plath to switch to hooker.
As the match kicked off, the Dolphins quickly established dominance on the field. They scored the first try within the opening ten minutes, with Tabuai-Fidow darting through the Storm's defense to touch down. This early lead set the tone for the game, energizing the home crowd and putting the Storm on the back foot.
Melbourne struggled to find their rhythm without Grant directing play. Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes co-captained the team, but the absence of their star hooker was palpable. The Storm's attempts to respond were thwarted by a resilient Dolphins defense, which held firm against several attacking raids.
Midway through the first half, the Dolphins extended their lead with a powerful run from prop Daniel Saifiti, who crashed over the line for another try. With the scoreboard reading 12-0, the Dolphins looked unstoppable. The Storm finally found some footing with a try from Xavier Coates, but the momentum quickly swung back to the Dolphins.
As the first half drew to a close, the Dolphins added to their tally with a brilliant team effort that showcased their offensive capabilities. Herbie Farnworth and Jack Bostock combined for a stunning try that left the Storm's defense scrambling. The halftime whistle blew with the Dolphins leading 22-6, leaving the Storm with a mountain to climb in the second half.
The second half began with the Storm desperately needing to make adjustments. They came out with renewed energy, and Garlick's presence at hooker brought some stability. However, the Dolphins were relentless, capitalizing on every opportunity. Nikorima scored a try early in the half, pushing the Dolphins' lead to 28-6.
Despite the scoreline, the Storm showed resilience, and Munster orchestrated a brilliant play that led to a try from Trent Loiero. The Storm fans erupted, hoping this would spark a comeback. But the Dolphins were not to be denied, responding with a try from Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, who powered through the defense to score.
As the match approached its final stages, the Dolphins continued to press their advantage, with Katoa and Nikorima linking up for another sensational try. The Storm managed a late consolation score from Garlick, but it was too little, too late.
In the post-match analysis, Bellamy reflected on the challenges his team faced without Grant. "We need to regroup and find our rhythm again. Injuries are part of the game, but we have to adapt and move forward," he stated, indicating a focus on the upcoming fixtures.
The Dolphins' impressive victory not only boosts their confidence but also positions them favorably in the standings as they continue their push for a playoff spot. With their next match against the Brisbane Broncos, they will look to build on this momentum.
As for the Storm, they must quickly regroup as they prepare for their next challenge, hoping to have Grant back sooner rather than later. The NRL season is long, and every match counts as teams vie for a chance at the title.
Round 7 continues with more exciting matchups this weekend, including the New Zealand Warriors facing the Brisbane Broncos and the Sydney Roosters taking on the Penrith Panthers. Fans can expect thrilling action as teams battle for supremacy in the league.
