LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In the lead-up to the Magic Round, the Dolphins and Roosters are showcasing contrasting performances.
After a strong start in Rounds 6-7, where the Dolphins notably defeated last year's grand finalists, they faced a setback against the Raiders, losing their grip on the game in the second half.
The Dolphins initially led 28-10 at GIO Stadium but faltered, allowing the Raiders to score 30 points in just 30 minutes.
This unexpected collapse marks a significant shift from their impressive debut in the Telstra Premiership earlier this year, where they stunned the Roosters 28-18 at Suncorp Stadium.
On the other hand, the Roosters are building momentum, particularly after a dominant performance on ANZAC Day.
Despite facing tough matchups against the Broncos and Panthers in the early rounds, they recently found their form, culminating in a strong victory where they scored seven tries against the Dragons.
This resurgence means the Roosters enter Magic Round with renewed confidence, hoping to build on their recent success.
Both teams are looking to capitalize on their experiences as they head into this crucial weekend.
The Dolphins will aim to leverage their previous wins against the Sharks and Wests Tigers at Magic Round, while the Roosters, under Trent Robinson, seek to continue their upward trajectory after a challenging start to the season.