DO OR DIE DOLPHINS CLASH AT HOME
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
The Mendi Blackhawks first finals match in four years might not have gone to plan but bring on another bite at the cherry… A second chance in September, earned via a top four finish, and it’s an additional opportunity Townsville doesn’t intend to waste. NRL premiership winner James Tamou has experienced both unbridled ecstasy and soul shattering agony at the of the pointy end of seasons and he’s adamant 2025 can still end in glory.
“To still be playing is reward for all the hard work we put in during the 23 rounds. And our belief is still strong that we can get the job done, and that comes from the trust boys have built in each other throughout the year.”
Now the stakes have been raised even higher, has only increased adrenaline ahead of a do or die tussle. Tamou’s anticipating a large and passionate crowd come Saturday’s sudden death showdown against Redcliffe at Jack Manski Oval. It’ll be the first home Hostplus Cup final since 2019.
“I really think it’s going to be unbelievable occasion, just judging on the last couple of games of the regular season where we had some massive turnouts. And there’s no doubt when fans get behind you at home, it can make a difference, particularly in tight games.”
Matt Wright agrees, the former NRL winger turned Townsville utility, punched out eighty minutes in the backrow against Norths but he’ll be happy run out in any jersey, when the team takes the field against the Dolphins.
“Yeah I absolutely love playing in front of our supporters they get behind you as soon as you leave the sheds. And we knew at some stage during the finals we would get to experience it again and there’s definitely been a buzz around training, there’s a feeling of added excitement.”
And potentially added pressure, with the club still chasing a maiden Premiership.
“Obviously we still haven’t won that trophy, and of course we want to change that, but that’s still a long way off. I’d say Finals footy is about narrowing your focus and playing the game that is in front of you.”
A win for the Mendi Blackhawks will seem them advance to the semi finals for a clash with the Burleigh Bears on the Gold Coast.
