Dolphins put to the test in season opener
The Redcliffe Dolphins were put to the test in their season-opening clash with the reigning premiers, as they went down 22-12 to the Burleigh Bears at Kayo Stadium.
In lashing rain on home turf, the Dolphins began their 2026 campaign with a gutsy effort but were unable to hold off a fast-finishing Burleigh, who were quick to capitalise on any chances they were given.
The Dolphins opened the scoring in the 14th minute through fullback Kyle Coghill, who was promoted from the extended bench to the starting side following an injury to Declan Dowson.
Burleigh however hit back just five minutes later, with backrower William Lewis crossing.
Bears skipper Sam Coster extended that lead in the 25th minute but outside of that, the first half was a gritty and, at times, messy outing, as the wet conditions put both sides under pressure.
In the second half, the to-and-fro battle continued.
But as five-eighth Karl Oloapu crossed in the 61st minute, pouncing onto a Joshua James kick, the momentum started to shift towards the Dolphins.
They looked the stronger side heading into the final 20 minutes, but, with a few missed opportunities for the home team, the Bears worked their way back into the match, scoring back-to-back tries through Kane Bradley and Coster.
With high error counts for both sides – 12 for Redcliffe and 15 for Burleigh – the weather certainly had its impact but overall the Dolphins can take confidence from that performance moving forward.
Redcliffe will be back at home next Saturday, March 14, as they take on the Townsville Blackhawks.