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Targeted defensive tactics and reduced involvement have stalled Isaiya Katoa’s start to the 2026 season.

Chad Townsend has outlined why Dolphins halfback Isaiya Katoa has made a slow start to the 2026 NRL season, following his side's heavy 52-18 defeat to Manly.

The Dolphins entered the year with top-eight expectations, bolstered by the return of several key forwards from long-term injuries. Much of the focus centred on Katoa, who was widely tipped to elevate his game in a faster, halves-friendly competition and potentially emerge as a future NSW Blues option.

Instead, the 22-year-old has struggled to replicate last season's influence. The loss to Manly left the Dolphins at 2-3, with their performance marked by 14 errors and a 64 per cent completion rate. Katoa failed to register a single attacking statistic and recorded just 34 touches, well below the benchmark for a starting halfback.

For comparison, opposition half Jamal Fogarty handled the ball 54 times, highlighting the disparity in involvement.

Speaking on SEN Radio, Townsend explained that opposition teams have adjusted their defensive approach to limit Katoa's impact. He noted that defenders are targeting his outside shoulder and compressing his time on the ball, particularly when he receives passes from dummy-half.

Townsend said Katoa often shapes to play short on the inside, which narrows his vision and delays his decision-making. By the time he looks to shift the ball wider, defensive lines have already advanced aggressively, shutting down attacking options. He added that teams are now consistently applying this tactic with success.

SEN host Jimmy Smith suggested Katoa's reduced influence has affected the Dolphins' overall attacking rhythm, with points proving harder to come by this season.

Coach Kristian Woolf acknowledged the team's poor performance and indicated changes may be necessary. He described the display as disappointing and said the side must reassess its current approach.

The Dolphins have now lost their past two matches, conceding heavily while also struggling with discipline and possession. Against Manly, they held just 38 per cent of the ball, compounding a difficult start to a campaign that began with considerable expectation.