Shibasaki stars as Broncos down Dolphins in Brisbane Derby

Gehamat Shibasaki delivered the performance of his career to help Brisbane claim a gritty 20-12 win over the Dolphins at a rain-drenched Suncorp Stadium on Friday night, condemning their cross-town rivals to a winless 0-4 start to the 2025 NRL season.

On a night where defence and discipline were key, the Broncos centre crossed for a try in each half and took home player of the match honours — capping off a remarkable turnaround after beginning the year on a development contract.

“Day one, I wasn’t quite sure,” admitted Broncos coach Michael Maguire.

“But he’s worked hard, earned the boys’ respect, and tonight was a reward for that.”

NRL Round 4: Dolphins v Broncos highlights

In front of over 44,000 fans, Brisbane made the most of their opportunities as the heavy $1.20 bookmaker favourites and maintained their composure in greasy conditions, building a 16-6 half-time lead on the back of tries to Shibasaki, Cory Paix and the returning Kotoni Staggs.

The Dolphins had moments to swing the game but struggled to capitalise, with coach Kristian Woolf lamenting execution and repeat errors.

“We’re close,” Woolf said.

“But we’re making the same mistakes. It’s not effort — it’s attention to detail that’s hurting us.”

A controversial moment in the first half saw Selwyn Cobbo tap back what appeared to be a 40/20 attempt with both feet over the sideline, denying Isaiya Katoa a crucial attacking opportunity.

Minutes later, Staggs scored a solo try and pointed to the turf, declaring Suncorp “Broncos’ house”.

Despite a late 90-metre stunner from Jake Averillo, Brisbane’s defence held firm, led by powerhouse efforts from Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan through the middle.

Reece Walsh was also influential, setting up Shibasaki’s second with a slick right-edge movement.

Maguire hailed the team’s “mature” approach in wet weather, noting the squad’s resilience and ability to dig in defensively.

“Our middles and edges worked for each other — that’s what we want to build,” he said.

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Meanwhile, Paix continued his resurgence at Hooker, scoring a try and adding 36 tackles as speculation grows around his future with the rugby league club.

With the Broncos climbing to 3-1 and building momentum, the Dolphins now face the prospect of rewriting history — no team has won the premiership after starting 0-4 since Newtown in 1933.

Woolf remains adamant his side is improving, but the clock is ticking on their season.

“We’re not far off — but near enough isn’t good enough in this comp,” he said.

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