Overview

• The Cowboys trailed 34-6 early and conceded 43 points as their defence was exposed by the Dolphins.
• Winger Robert Derby was dropped from the squad and sent to the Queensland Cup after thirteen handling errors in recent games.
• Halfback Jake Clifford missed the loss but is on track to return in Round 21 after continued recovery.
• With just six wins, the team sits 12th and is five points outside the finals with seven rounds remaining.
• Coach Todd Payten has declared upcoming fixtures must be won and faces growing scrutiny over his job security.