With State of Origin now concluded for another year, a full set of fixtures remains for the run towards the NRL Finals. With just 8 points separating 5th to 16th on the ladder, each match is crucial to the success of teams. Fans will be the ones benefitting as the on field action promises to be exhilarating. The opening game this weekend heads to Brisbane, with the Dolphins hosting the Cowboys. It is a must-win game for each side (for different reasons) and Before You Bet is here to help make sense of it all and hopefully find you a winner or two to add to your enjoyment.
Dolphins vs Cowboys Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 20
Improvement Needed
The Dolphins were flat last week in their 24-12 loss to the Sharks on the road. Minus some key players, a better effort was expected. It was always going to be challenging with just 46% possession, but they tried to cover this with an 82% completion rate and making 9.3m per carry. Unfortunately, they missed 40 tackles and allowed 6 line breaks, giving numerous attacking chances to their opponents to build pressure. If they wish to be competitive and push for a spot in the Top 8, a better performance is needed.
Time is running out
The Cowboys were defeated 12-8 in a dour affair by the Bulldogs at home, trying hard in the contest but ultimately outplayed. With their Origin players available and facing a team who chose to rest some stars, there was a genuine chance that they could win. This was impacted by a horrible completion rate (65%) and only making 8.3m per carry. They did have opportunities with 5 line breaks but failed to make the most of these when it was presented to them. Now in 12th on the ladder, time is running out to build momentum towards the Finals.
Stats that matter
Phins Up
The Dolphins are the superior team in this contest and, if both teams play to their potential, they should win this match. The return of Tabuai-Fidow boosts their chances, but they have lost two key forwards; the Cowboys are also impacted by injuries. The Cowboys are not playing with consistency in their matches to build pressure on opponents. While they were able to achieve this to some extent last week, they failed to turn this into points. The limitations of their attack are surprising given the players within their team; the Dolphins also have a strong enough defensive structure to withhold what their opponents throw at them. Not only should the home side win, but they should also be capable of covering the line.
Dolphins -5.5
$1.90 (2 units)
Dolphins vs Cowboys Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points over 49.5 – the average total in the past 5 matches between these two sides is 55 points. The attacking and defensive record of each suggests a blowout is also ahead.
Leg 2 = Tabuai-Fidow to score – he has scored 15 tries this season, the most for the Dolphins. After another great game in the Origin decider, he is expected to bring the necessary experience and impact to this game which will help his team succeed.
Leg 3 = Farnworth to score – sitting second on the tries list for the Dolphins is this man. He has scored 11 tries and will again be out to make a statement in this contest.
Dolphins vs Cowboys Betting Odds & Match Info
Location: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Odds: Dolphins $1.55 vs Cowboys $2.50
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2025 NRL season, so make sure to head over to our NRL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Where to Dolphins vs Cowboys
Watch the Dolphins vs Cowboys match live on Channel 9 as well as ad free on Kayo Sports.
Tail our Dolphins vs Cowboys Tips at Ladbrokes!
