Dolphins Edge Warriors 26-24 as Katoa Suffers Wrist Injury
The Dolphins have claimed their eighth consecutive victory, defeating the Warriors 26-24 at Suncorp Stadium in a contest widely regarded as the finest of the 2026 NRL season. The result, however, was overshadowed by a first-half wrist injury to Dolphins halfback Isaiya Katoa, which is expected to sideline the young playmaker for the foreseeable future.
How the Dolphins Secured Victory in the Final Minutes
In a match that swung dramatically in both directions, the Dolphins appeared destined for defeat when Warriors hooker Sam Healey crossed from dummy-half with four minutes remaining, carrying three Queensland Origin representatives over the line to give the visitors a late lead. The pendulum swung once more. Following a short kick-off, Selwyn Cobbo recovered the ball and powered over for his second try, leveling the scores at 24-all. Jamayne Isaako, who earlier brought up 1,500 NRL career points, converted from the touchline to seal the win.
The Dolphins' left edge, a standout throughout recent weeks, delivered again. Kodi Nikorima sent Herbie Farnworth over before halftime, while Isaako's acrobatic finish on the siren gave the home side a narrow advantage at the break. Jack Bostock's break early in the second half led to Isaako's second try, extending the lead before the Warriors mounted their late resurgence.
What Is the Extent of Isaiya Katoa's Injury?
Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf confirmed Katoa dislocated his wrist in the first half, though the full extent of the damage remains unclear pending scans. The 20-year-old watched the remainder of the match from the sidelines with his arm in a sling.