The NRL Round 10 clash between the Parramatta Eels and the Dolphins kicked off on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at CommBank Stadium, with both teams eager to bounce back from disappointing performances in the previous rounds. The Eels, currently sitting at the bottom of the ladder, were looking for a much-needed victory to lift their spirits, while the Dolphins aimed to end a two-game losing streak.
With Mitchell Moses back from injury, the Eels were hopeful of turning their fortunes around. Moses, who has been eyeing a spot in the New South Wales State of Origin team, brought a renewed sense of direction to the Eels' attack. His return was crucial, especially as the team was desperate to avoid another loss that could further hinder their season.
As the match began, the Dolphins struck first. In the 12th minute, winger Jack Bostock scored the opening try, giving the Dolphins a 6-0 lead. The play was set up by halfback Isaiya Katoa, who skillfully manipulated the Eels' defense before delivering a perfect pass to Bostock, who finished in the left corner. This early lead was a boost for the Dolphins, who had been struggling defensively, conceding an average of 38 points in their last two matches.
However, the Eels faced an early setback when center Will Penisini was taken off for a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) after a tackle on Dolphins center Herbie Farnworth. The injury raised concerns about the Eels' depth, especially as they were already dealing with injuries to key players.
Despite the early score, the Dolphins' coach Kristian Woolf expressed frustration with his team's lack of urgency following a missed opportunity just minutes before Bostock's try. The Dolphins had a chance to capitalize on a penalty near the Eels' line, but their failure to act quickly allowed the Eels to regain possession.
As the game progressed, both teams traded sets, showcasing their offensive strategies. The Eels were eager to respond to the Dolphins' early lead, and their defense was put to the test against the fast-paced Dolphins. ABC Sport commentator Matthew Elliott praised the Dolphins' line speed, noting that it was a double-edged sword as it sometimes left them vulnerable to penalties.
In the midst of the action, the Eels continued to apply pressure, with Moses orchestrating plays and looking for gaps in the Dolphins' defense. The Eels had scored 61 points in their last two matches at home, and they were determined to add to that tally.
Both teams made adjustments as the match unfolded. The Dolphins made a late change to their lineup, with Ray Stone starting in the second row and Connelly Lemuelu moving to the bench. This was a strategic decision by Woolf, who aimed to bolster his team's performance following their recent struggles.
The Eels, on the other hand, maintained their lineup with only one change, bringing in Matt Doorey to replace the injured Sam Tuivaiti. Tuivaiti was facing an extended period on the sidelines after undergoing surgery for a syndesmosis injury.
As the first half continued, the Eels' defense struggled to contain the Dolphins, who were eager to build on their early lead. Dolphins fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow was particularly dangerous, showcasing his speed and agility. He expressed confidence in his ability to outpace Eels winger Josh Addo-Carr, setting the stage for an exciting matchup.
In a pivotal moment, the Eels managed to regain momentum and began to find gaps in the Dolphins' defense. However, their efforts were often thwarted by mistakes, including a forward pass that cost them a scoring opportunity. The Eels needed to capitalize on any chances they could create, especially with the pressure mounting to secure a win.
As the match approached halftime, the tension was palpable. The Eels had to overcome their defensive lapses and capitalize on their attacking opportunities if they wanted to turn the tide. Meanwhile, the Dolphins were determined to hold onto their lead and build on their early success.
In other NRL news, AJ Brimson, the Gold Coast Titans star, has been granted permission to switch his representative eligibility to England. After playing four State of Origin games for Queensland, Brimson's application was approved due to his mother's heritage. This move comes ahead of the upcoming Ashes series and a World Cup in 2026, marking a significant change in his career.
As the second half of the match unfolded, both teams were looking to make critical adjustments. The Eels needed to tighten their defense, which had been conceding 31 points per game, while the Dolphins aimed to maintain their attacking momentum and secure a much-needed victory.
With the stakes high in this Round 10 clash, fans were treated to a thrilling display of rugby league action. The unpredictability of the season added to the excitement, with both teams vying for crucial points as they approached the midpoint of the NRL season.
As the game continued, the Eels and Dolphins were not just battling for the win but also for pride and momentum as they looked ahead to the remainder of the season. With key players like Moses, Katoa, and Tabuai-Fidow on the field, the match promised to deliver moments of brilliance and drama.
With the final whistle approaching, the atmosphere at CommBank Stadium was electric. Fans were on the edge of their seats, hoping for their team to emerge victorious in this crucial encounter. The outcome of this match would not only affect the standings but also set the tone for the rest of the season.
As the clock ticked down, the Eels and Dolphins fought fiercely, showcasing their determination and skill. The match was a testament to the competitive spirit of the NRL, with both teams leaving everything on the field in their quest for glory.
