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The Bulldogs have been flawless this season, maintaining a two-point lead at the top of the ladder as the Origin phase begins.
Their success hinges on a dynamic forward pack, a quick defensive line and a strong completion rate—an ideal combination for the expected wet and wild conditions in Sydney for their match against the Dolphins.
However, with captain Stephen Crichton, Max King, and Maroons 18th man Kurt Mann sidelined due to Origin commitments, Andrew Johns senses a potential upset brewing.
Viliame Kikau will spearhead the Bulldogs as they face some challenges. Getty
“This afternoon (Wednesday), we’re in for heavy rain, with persistent showers predicted for all of Thursday,” Johns informed Brad Fittler on Wide World of Sports’ Freddy and The Eighth’s Tips.
“So, it’ll be wet and muddy, much like your laundry. For the clash between the Bulldogs and the Dolphins, I’m going to take a gamble and predict a win for the Dolphins.”
This choice took Fittler by surprise, especially in light of the bleak weather forecast.
“With [Josh] Curran back from suspension, they might be short on some key players, but they still have their hooker, halfback, five-eighth, fullback, and Kikau, which is substantial,” he added.
In addition to the three players unavailable due to Origin commitments, the Bulldogs will also miss Jacob Kiraz for the next month due to a calf strain.
On the other hand, the Dolphins must replace their star fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who has kept his spot in the Queensland side, while key forward Tom Gilbert is set for an extended time on the sidelines because of a pec injury.
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Nevertheless, Johns is convinced that the Dolphins have the potential to cause an upset at Accor Stadium, highlighting their squandered chances against the Warriors, who are another high-performing team.
“The Dolphins had a wealth of opportunities,” Johns noted. “The Warriors conceded three dropouts, and the Dolphins capitalised on none of them.”
“I truly believe the Dolphins can triumph.”
Scroll down for the latest leaderboard and Round 12 predictions from Nine’s expert tipsters!
Nine’s NRL tipping leaderboard. Nine
Andrew Johns: Dolphins, Eels, Knights, Sharks, Warriors
Brad Fittler: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Knights, Sharks, Warriors
Paul Gallen: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Sharks, Raiders
Darren Lockyer: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Roosters, Raiders
Mat Thompson: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Sharks, Warriors
Peter Psaltis: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Sharks, Warriors
David Middleton: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Sharks, Raiders
Danika Mason: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Sharks, Warriors
The Mole: Dolphins, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Sharks, Warriors
Ben Glover: Bulldogs, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Sharks, Warriors
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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