LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In the Round 15 clash, the seventh-place Dolphins will face the sixth-place Cowboys in a critical match that could significantly impact their standings in the top eight.
Both teams will be missing key State of Origin players; the Dolphins will be without one, while the Cowboys are missing four.
This situation might benefit the Dolphins, although they are dealing with several injuries that will keep multiple starting players out for the rest of the season.
The Dolphins enter the match with positive momentum, having won three of their last four games and scoring a remarkable 100 points combined in their previous two matches.
In contrast, the Cowboys have struggled, securing just one win, a draw, and two losses during the same timeframe.
The importance of this game is acknowledged by both sides as it carries significant consequences for their aspirations for the finals with 12 rounds remaining in the season.
Jake Averillo will start at fullback for the Dolphins, filling in for Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who is unavailable due to his selection for the Queensland State of Origin team.
Max Feagai will rejoin the team at right centre, completing the backline adjustments.
The rest of the starting lineup remains unchanged from the previous week.
Additionally, Ray Stone has been named to replace Max Plath, who is sidelined with a knee injury.
This matchup not only highlights the stakes involved but also illustrates the adaptability both teams must showcase amidst player absences and injuries.