They may have run out of puff mid-season, but the Dolphins were THE best thing to happen to rugby league in 2023.
Unbackable favourites for the wooden spoon six months ago, they stunned the league world by winning seven of their opening 12 games – often in front of full houses.
The competition’s new chums missed out on most of their recruitment targets leading into their debut season and their final squad looked underwhelming to most critics.
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But Wayne Bennett sprinkled some of his coaching magic dust onto what looked like a ‘no frills’ bunch and the Dolphins responded, coming up with some stunning upsets and playing bright, attacking football to delight the crowds.
Injuries and suspensions eventually brought their season to a grinding halt, with just two wins in their final 12 games.
But 2023 will be regarded as a wonderful beginning for the new franchise and with the players they have bought, they are every chance of finals footy next season.
Best player: Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
Biggest disappointment: Anthony Milford was one player Bennett took a punt on that let him down. He was dropped in the pre-season for a poor attitude and played a minor role in the season.
Key signing: Herbie Farnworth is a class centre who has been great for the Broncos for the past couple of years – he’ll add strike power out wide.
2024 gains: Herbie Farnworth (Broncos), Thomas Flegler (Broncos), Jake Averillo (Bulldogs)