Dolphins fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow has returned to top form on the back of a change in approach that suits his free-wheeling style.
The silky smooth No.1, known universally as "Hammer", scored his first try of the season and ran for 190m in a scintillating display in the 36-10 win over Gold Coast on Saturday to secure his club's first win of the season.
It was a welcome return to form for Tabuai-Fidow who scored 15 tries in 16 matches last year.
He had appeared out of sorts through the first month of 2024 but found a way to break the shackles against the Titans.
It was timely ahead of the showdown on Thursday night at Suncorp Stadium with defending premiers Penrith.
"I had the mindset to go out and play footy and not think about it too much," Tabuai-Fidow said.
"When I do that I play freely and better. It was good to get out there, get involved early in the game and get my touches up.
"Playing freely and not thinking about it too much is when I play my best footy."
The Dolphins had trained last week with a variety of moves to have Tabuai-Fidow involved in better positions. Hooker Jeremy Marshall-King and halves Kodi Nikorima and Isaiya Katoa then played their parts to perfection against the Titans.
"We built last week on the spine being connected and trusting each other," Tabuai-Fidow said.
"During the week we wanted to be connected and play off each other.
"It was good practice for us and we went out and did it."
The Panthers are coming off four consecutive losses. The Dolphins broke their own four-match losing streak last week and Tabuai-Fidow expects his opponents to be on song.
"It's a big challenge for them and us," he said.
"We'd lost four in a row and got a win which has boosted our confidence.
"They'll come out hard. It's a big match and all the boys are up for it."
The Dolphins welcome back captain Tom Gilbert from suspension to replace Ray Stone, who is serving a one-match ban.
"Him being our captain, he is the leader we need out there," Tabuai-Fidow said.
"Not having him last week was a bit weird.
"He fits right in. We know he'll work hard for us and go all day."
