Dolphins and Roosters Clash in Preliminary Final with Grand Final Berth at Stake

The Dolphins host the Sydney Roosters in a preliminary final with a place in the NRL Grand Final at stake. The Dolphins arrive on an eight-game winning streak and have beaten the Roosters in both meetings this season, while the Roosters rebounded from a difficult stretch with a 46-10 semifinal win over Cronulla. Previews favor the Dolphins, citing their form and strong home record; one predictive model gives them a 63% chance to win. The matchup also evokes Arthur Beetson’s legacy: a star for both clubs, he once said he hoped to see a Roosters-Redcliffe Grand Final.
The Dolphins’ 26-16 qualifying-final win over the Warriors came after they trailed for most of the match, then scored 18 unanswered points to secure victory.
Dolphins prop Tom Flegler was set to return after clearing concussion protocols, while experienced forward Felise Kaufusi was also recalled.
Arthur Beetson captained the Roosters to premierships in 1974 and 1975 and became the first Indigenous athlete to captain Australia in any sport.
The Roosters’ semi-final win featured a standout performance from Daly Cherry-Evans, who scored a try and made three assists; Mark Nawaqanitawase scored twice.
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