McDonald Jones Stadium will play host to Sunday's Round 27 NRL game between Newcastle Knights and Dolphins. The game kicks off at 4:05 pm with Newcastle Knights heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Newcastle Knights vs. Dolphins game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Sunday September 8, 2024 at 4:05 pm

Where: McDonald Jones Stadium

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

Newcastle Knights vs Dolphins Odds

Newcastle Knights vs Dolphins Preview

In a dramatic end to the regular season, Newcastle and the Dolphins clash with the eighth finals spot up for grabs. Unless the game ends in a rare golden point draw, one team will advance to the playoffs while the other faces Mad Monday.

Newcastle has surged into contention with three decisive wins and an unlucky golden point loss to Cronulla. Kalyn Ponga’s first-half double and Fletcher Sharpe’s second-half hat-trick propelled them to a 36-14 win over Gold Coast. The return of Tyson Frizell (concussion) and Tyson Gamble (hand) is a major boost, with Will Pryce and Thomas Cant dropping off the bench.

The Dolphins, after losing five of their previous six games, stunned the Broncos with a 40-6 victory last Saturday. Wayne Bennett’s backline overhaul paid off with standout performances from Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jake Averillo, and Trai Fuller. Jesse Bromwich and Kodi Nikorima return from concussion protocols, while Isaiya Katoa and Lachlan Hubner drop out.

The Knights have edged past the Dolphins in two of their last three encounters, including a 30-28 win in Perth last season and an 18-14 victory at Suncorp earlier this year. Newcastle has been solid at home with a 6-4 record at McDonald Jones Stadium, while the Dolphins have struggled on the road, going 2-5 outside Queensland.

With the stakes high, expect a high-intensity clash. The Bennett factor and last week’s Broncos ambush suggest the Dolphins could spoil the Knights’ finals hopes in what promises to be a thrilling match.