The Ipswich Jets and Redcliffe Dolphins represent an integral part of Hostplus Cup history, and it’s a rivalry that runs deep for the Jets.
23 years ago, at a packed-out Dolphin Oval, the Redcliffe Dolphins defeated the Ipswich Jets 34-10 in a match dominated by Aaron Barba and Barry Berrigan.
In the 53 games between the two sides, it’s the Dolphins who hold bragging rights, winning 33 of the 53 battles.
The Jets have travelled far and wide during past Country Weeks, having visited Kokopo, Blackwater, Charters Towers, Winton, Cooktown, Charleville, Thursday Island, Quilpie, South Kolan and Biloela.
This Sunday, Goondiwindi will be added to that long list.
The Jets have struggled in recent times out in the country, with their last Country Week victory being in 2019.
The last time these two faced off in a rural location was in Quilpie back in 2021, where the Dolphins prevailed 26-22.
The Dolphins were donning their 2002 premiership jumper in that bout, where the ghosts of Luke Scott, Barry Berrigan, Shane Perry and Aaron Barba came back to haunt the Jets for a second time.
The Jets are coming into this Sunday’s match on the heels of two narrow losses to the Devils and Hunters, as they leave the tropical warmth of Port Moresby for the frigid temperatures of Goondiwindi.
Despite the loss, the Jets will find positives from their second half performance where they scored 22 unanswered points.
However, their lacklustre goal-line defence will be a point of concern for head coach Tye Ingebrigtsen, who will be well aware of the damage the Dolphins can do close to their opposition’s try line.
In addition, the Jets have struggled getting off the mark in recent weeks, conceding a total of 44 unanswered points in their last two matches.
The attacking weapons of Dantoray Lui, Joshua James and Will Partridge will look to strike early for the Dolphins.
Similar to the Jets, the Dolphins will also be out to right last weekend’s wrongs, as they fell to the Souths Logan Magpies in a shock upset at home.
Discipline issues hampered the Dolphins defensively, conceding six penalties to the Magpies’ four and missing seven more tackles than their opposition.
Field position wasn’t an issue for the Dolphins, with their execution in the Magpies’ red zone costing them points and ultimately a win.
However, with Trai Fuller returning to form and the recent addition of former Devil LJ Nonu in the centres, the Dolphins are poised for a strong attacking display this weekend.
An unexpected source of points is Josh Allen, who comes into this match fresh off a double against the Magpies.
With both sides boasting flair and strike in spades, this Sunday’s match in Goondiwindi is sure to be a belter.
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