Last week’s defeat to the table topping Brumbies means that Les Kiss’s Queensland Reds will need to bounce back at Suncorp this week to retain their Top 4 place. With only one more game to go before the Super Rugby Pacifica playoffs begin, realistically, the Reds are unlikely to finish higher than 4th but two losses could lead them to miss out on the playoffs. Although, they should be strong favourites for their final game against Fijian Drua.
The 4th position can provide a second bite at the cherry; if seeds one and two win their quarter finals, a loss for the 4th seed would mean they would remain in the competition anyway.
The Reds talisman and Wallabies skipper, Harry Wilson, returns after his broken arm and Tom Lynagh also makes a timely comeback.
The Hurricanes are unbeaten in their last four games, including a draw with the Force, and an away win against the Brumbies. Their win against the Highlanders last week, however, only came about with an 81st-minute Roigard try, given the Highlanders are bottom of the Super Ladder.
This gives the Reds some hope that they can defend their castle in this crucial arm wrestle; however, a 4th spot with the benefits of a potential second bite at the cherry is also within sight for the Canes.
Bad news: The Hurricanes have won 13 of the last 14 games against the Reds. The return of Wilson and Lynagh along with the Hurricanes under par performance last week, gives the Reds a strong chance if their front row can be competitive.
Their nailbiting win against the Highlanders, came at a big cost to the Hurricanes. Brayden Iose and Riley Higgins are out for the rest of the season. Ngane Punivai will also likley miss the game at Suncorp with an injury.
The Reds – Hurricanes game is part of a double header at Suncorp tonight, 23 May. The Wallaroos play Canada kick off at 4:55 p.m., with the Reds running out for a 7:35 p.m. kick off. If you can’t make it to Suncorp, 9GEM and Stan will broadcast the game live.
A massively symbolic game and a significant opportunity for the Reds to get their season back on track, currently sitting 4th in the Super Rugby Pacifica Ladder.
Losing at home to the Brumbies two weeks ago was a blow that followed up a loss at the Chiefs and Les Kiss will be wanting the Reds to bounce back against a Blues squad not firing on all cylinders but almost getting the upperhand at the Crusaders last week, going down to an 82nd minute penalty by James O’Connor.
For the Reds, Jock Campbell will make his first start of the season at full back, after coming off the bench twice since he fractured his arm. Masssimo De Lutiis comes onto the bench as does Heremaia Murray.
The Reds injury list is starting to look troublesome: Filipo Daugunu, Matt Faessler, Josh Flook, Josh Nasser, Harry Wilson and Liam Wright.
The Blues will have Beauden Barrett on the bench, Dalton Papali’i and Caleb Clarke are out.
History is against the Reds in this clash. The Blues have won the last fourt games between the two teams including the last three at Suncorp.
In 2025, however, Australian teams have defended their castle in every game against visitors from across the ditch.
Fresh off a bye, six rounds to play and play off places up for grabs, let’s hope a massive Suncorp crowd can fire up the Anzac spirit for the Reds and get the w in what looks like a certain arm wrestle.
The Queensland Reds gave their fans something to cheer about on March 29, grinding out a thrilling 28-24 victory over the Western Force at Suncorp Stadium in a performance that was equal parts grit, flair and composure under pressure.
It wasn’t always pretty. In fact, at times, it was downright scrappy. But in a match full of twists, momentum shifts and standout individual efforts, the Reds showed the sort of resilience that hasn’t always been their hallmark in recent years. The reward? Top spot on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder for the first time since 2012 — a milestone that carries real weight for this resurgent side.
A See-Sawing First Half
The Reds burst out of the blocks with a try to Filipo Daugunu inside the opening five minutes, capitalising on a smart lineout play and catching the Force flat-footed. But the visitors answered in spectacular fashion through front-rower Tom Robertson, who galloped nearly half the field like a runaway back-rower to level the scores and silence the Brisbane faithful.
From there, it was end-to-end action. Young flyer Heremaia Murray crossed next for the Reds, only for Carlo Tizzano — rapidly becoming one of the competition’s most consistent performers — to dot down twice for the Force and push his season tally to a record-breaking 10 tries for a flanker.
Dre Pakeho also found the line for Queensland in an impressive outing, standing in for the injured Hunter Paisami, and Tom Lynagh’s flawless goal-kicking saw the sides locked 21-all at halftime.
The Second-Half Slog
The fireworks slowed in the second stanza as both sides tightened up defensively. A penalty goal from Force playmaker Ben Donaldson nudged the visitors ahead 24-21 with just over 20 minutes to play.
Things looked shaky for the Reds when they lost John Bryant to the bin in the 67th minute, reducing them to 14 men. But rather than wilt, they found another gear — and their general, Tate McDermott, was the man to step up.
Returning from the bench, McDermott sniped off a rolling maul in the 72nd minute to cross for what proved to be the match-winner. Lynagh’s conversion iced the game, and the Reds closed out the final minutes with poise and discipline.
What It Means
This was more than just a win. It was a statement.
Without several of their regular leaders — Harry Wilson and Fraser McReight were rested, and Liam Wright remains sidelined with a shoulder injury — the Reds still managed to steady the ship. Ryan Smith, handed the captain’s armband for the first time, was a calming presence in the pack and stood tall when the side needed direction.
The win also showcased the Reds’ depth. Pakeho impressed with both ball in hand and in defence, while Lynagh’s radar boot was vital in such a tight contest. It’s becoming increasingly clear that this isn’t a team relying on a handful of stars — it’s a squad with options, hunger, and belief.
Still Work to Do
Of course, not everything went to plan. The lineout was a glaring issue, with at least 10 opportunities either lost or misfiring. Against stronger sides, those mistakes will hurt. Coach Les Kiss will be keen to address that before they face stiffer tests in the coming rounds.
But when it mattered, the Reds found a way to win — and that’s something they’ve struggled with in seasons past. There’s a steel to this group now, and that bodes well as they head into the back half of the season.
For the Fans
For long-suffering Reds supporters, this season is beginning to feel like a return to the glory days. The team has a spark again — a blend of youth and experience, a game plan that suits their strengths, and players who are standing up in big moments.
Sitting on top of the table isn’t just symbolic — it’s a reminder that the Reds can be contenders again.
And with McDermott back in form, Lynagh kicking with confidence, and a forward pack that doesn’t mind getting dirty, there’s every reason for Queensland fans to believe this side is only just getting started.
The Queensland Reds go into their home clash against the Western Force, with a 5-1 win/loss record, currently 3rd in the Super Rugby Pacific 2025 ladder and having not lost against the Force at Suncorp since 2016.
Last week’s win at the Highlanders 23-29 was a crucial momentum builder that will give them huge confidence to take on the Force, who have won three and lost three this season, with a visit to ladder leaders, the Chiefs, looming on the horizon for the Reds next week.
A 20-12 down (tries by Asiata and Thomas) at the 56-minute mark against the Highlanders. A Filipo Daugunu try and then another from a build-up of pressure, by Lachie Anderson, got them ahead before a very cheeky finish by Daugunu, finding a tiny gap underneath the goal-line ruck, to put the ball down and put his side two scores ahead. The Reds only conceding a penalty goal into overtime despite the Highlanders having 73% of the possession in the last 10 minutes.
Superior kicking from hand was a major contribution to the Reds victory. The Highlanders won the attack battle, running 496 metres to 301 by the Reds, from 127 carries to 111 in favour of the Highlanders. Tom Lynagh and co kicked 733 metres from hand, the Highlanders only 406 metres. Lynagh is building pressure on Noah Lolesio for the Wallabies number 10 jersey. The Reds lost the breakdown battle and the lineout count (three lineouts lost against none lost by the Highlanders). So, overall the stats don’t paint the picture of a winning game.
Ryan Smith will be handed the skipper’s armband. The Reds will go into the clash without Harry Wilson and Fraser McReight who are both rested. Liam Wright is injured and Tate McDermott will make his comeback from the bench. Kalani Thomas will start again at halfback. Les Kiss being very pleased with his performance against the Highlanders.
Alex Hodgman and Massimo de Lutiis will start against the Force, having come off the bench in the strong finish against the Highlanders.
The Force travel to Suncorp after a 52-15 dominant win against Fijian Drua. The Fijians, having proven to be very competitive against some of the best sides in the comp, including being the only team to beat the table toppers, the Chiefs. Repeating that performance would certainly prove a major challenge for Les Kiss and his Reds team.
Simon Cron, the Force Coach, said he was delighted Dylan Pietsch was back after injury.
Nick Champion de Crespigny also returns at Flanker and Marley Pearce gets the loosehead start.
“We were more connected against the Drua and we need to bring that again” he said.
Two former Reds players, Hamish Stewart and Mac Grealy, will start for the Force against their old club.
The game sets up as an arm wrestle, with the Reds hoping to maintain dominance at Suncorp over the Force.
Suncorp Stadium will remain the battleground for Fraser McReight’s rugby future, with the star flanker committing to Australian Rugby and the Queensland Reds until 2028. The 26-year-old, widely regarded as one of the best openside flankers in the game, turned down significant overseas offers to stay in Queensland, ensuring he remains a key figure in Australia’s rugby revival.
McReight’s re-signing was confirmed on Friday, 14 March, solidifying his place in the Wallabies’ long-term plans. His decision to stay comes ahead of a critical period for Australian rugby, including this year’s British and Irish Lions tour and the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil.
Loyalty to Queensland and the Wallabies
Despite attracting interest from overseas clubs, McReight chose to continue his journey in Australia. He said his passion for representing Queensland and the Wallabies played a major role in his decision, along with the opportunity to contribute to a national rebuilding effort.
“There were other offers, but my heart has always been with the Reds and the Wallabies,” McReight stated. He sees the next few years as crucial for Australian rugby and wants to be part of the team’s resurgence.
The flanker’s decision aligns with the choices of several other top players, including Wallabies captain Harry Wilson, who have opted to remain in the domestic competition rather than chase lucrative contracts overseas. Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss emphasised McReight’s value, calling him one of the best No.7s in world rugby and a leader within the team.
McReight’s impact on the game has been undeniable. In 2024, he was named Australian Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, earned the RUPA Medal for Excellence, and won the Pilecki Medal as Queensland’s best player.
The backrower made his professional debut for the Queensland Reds in 2019 and played his first Test for the Wallabies in 2020. Since then, he has amassed 77 Super Rugby caps and 25 Test caps, cementing his status as a core player in Australia’s international setup.
Queensland Rugby Union CEO David Hanham praised McReight’s commitment, noting that he has a strong connection with the team and the local community. “He wants to be here, playing with his mates and pushing Australian rugby forward,” Hanham said.
A Key Player for Australia’s Future
Rugby Australia’s high-performance director Peter Horne highlighted McReight’s role in shaping the Wallabies’ future. With a major international calendar ahead, including the highly anticipated British and Irish Lions tour this year and the 2027 Rugby World Cup, his presence in the squad is considered a major boost.
“Fraser has established himself as a regular in the Wallabies lineup and will play a key role as we prepare for some of the biggest rugby events in Australia’s history,” Horne said.
McReight’s leadership and on-field influence are expected to help guide a new era for the Wallabies, as the team looks to rebuild and compete at the highest level.
His re-signing also strengthens the Queensland Reds, who have secured key players such as Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Matt Faessler, and Jeremy Williams, ensuring the squad remains competitive in Super Rugby Pacific.
A Home-Grown Star Staying Put
McReight’s rugby journey started in Queensland, where he played for the Albany Creek Brumbies before progressing through the ranks at Brisbane Grammar School. He later captained the Junior Wallabies to an Oceania Under-20s title, setting the foundation for his professional career.
His decision to stay in Australian rugby, rather than accept lucrative overseas offers, underscores his deep connection to Queensland and his desire to see the Wallabies return to the top of world rugby. With Suncorp Stadium set to host key matches in the coming years, fans can expect to see McReight leading from the front, both for the Reds and the Wallabies.
The Queensland Reds are set to kick off their 2025 Super Rugby Pacific campaign with a formidable lineup. Head coach Les Kiss has named ten Wallabies in the starting XV for Friday, 21 February, night’s clash against Moana Pasifika at Suncorp Stadium. Reds vs Moana Pasifika kick off 6:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
Moana Pasifika will be led by 94-Test All Black Ardie Savea, whose leadership and experience in high-pressure matches will be crucial for the visitors. The Reds will need to be at their best to counter a side that showcased its attacking firepower last weekend, crossing for six tries against the Western Force.
In an exciting development for Queensland rugby, 21-year-old prop Massimo De Lutiis will make his Super Rugby debut. The 128kg tighthead has impressed in the Reds International Program, earning six Queensland caps against international opposition. Reflecting on his journey, De Lutiis expressed his gratitude for the mentorship he has received from the Reds’ experienced front-rowers. “It’s been a long journey, and it’s satisfying to see the hard work pay off,” he said. “I’ve learned so much from the experienced front-rowers here.”
The Reds’ backline will be guided by the dynamic combination of captain Tate McDermott at scrumhalf and Tom Lynagh at flyhalf. In the forward pack, the established trio of Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, and Seru Uru will be key to setting the platform for success.
Head coach Les Kiss is confident in his squad’s preparation following their pre-season tour in the UK. “The boys are eager to play in front of family, friends and fans at Suncorp Stadium after months of hard work,” he said. “We’ve refined our game plan and strengthened our attack. Now, we need to execute and play to our strengths.”
Depth To Be Tested Amid Key Absences
The Reds will be without key forwards Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and co-captain Liam Wright due to injury, testing their squad depth early in the season. However, the strength of the bench highlights the squad’s resilience, with Wallabies representatives Matt Faessler, Zane Nonggorr, and Angus Blyth ready to make an impact.
With the passionate home crowd behind them, the Reds will be eager to start their campaign with a statement victory and build on their finals appearances from the past two seasons. The season opener promises to be an intense and entertaining contest, setting the tone for what lies ahead in 2025.
Fifth-placed Queensland Reds will be looking to maintain their winning ways when they host the sixth-placed Melbourne Rebels on Friday, May 10. Reds vs Rebels kickoff 7:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
The Queensland Reds (5-5) are riding high after an impressive 33-28 away victory over the Crusaders last week. That famous win in Christchurch was their first since 1999 and a major confidence booster as they push for a finals spot.
Les Kiss’ side have been propelled by the stellar form of flanker Fraser McReight, who tops the turnovers chart despite a two-game suspension earlier in the season. The returning McReight was instrumental against the Crusaders with a tireless breakdown performance.
The Rebels (5-5), meanwhile, were beaten 53-26 at home by these same Reds back in March. They showed fight with a second-half comeback but were ultimately undone by their poor start.
Much could depend on the Reds ability to replicate their fast starts. Against their last outing against the Rebels, their forward pack laid the platform with a dominant first-half display, offloading frequently to create repeated chances.
Locks Seru Uru and Peni Ravai were destructive carriers that night. If they can provide front-foot ball again, the Reds’ backline of Lawson Creighton, Jock Campbell and the in-form Tim Ryan have the talent to capitalise.
The Reds face their next crucial test in the 5th vs 6th showdown, taking on a desperate Rebels team in a fight for finals survival. Expect fireworks at Suncorp in this high-stakes clash.
The Queensland Reds have made three changes to their starting XV for the Anzac Weekend Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Blues on Saturday, April 26. Josh Flook’s timely return at outside centre is the headliner, with the experienced campaigner replacing the injured Jordan Petaia. Reds vs Blues kickoff 5:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
In addition to Flook’s inclusion, Angus Blyth comes into the second row for Cormac Daly. Daly is sidelined with minor soreness following the 31-0 win over the Highlanders.
Head coach Les Kiss has also handed 20-year-old speedster Tim Ryan his first run-on opportunity on the wing, with Mac Grealy making way.
Connor Vest and Floyd Aubrey are set for potential debuts, providing cover in the forwards and backs.
Anzac Weekend commemorations
The team will don their special khaki Anzac jerseys for the occasion, paying tribute to the 60 Queensland Reds who served in five wars, with 11 making the ultimate sacrifice.
Introducing the 2024 Queensland Reds Anzac commemorative jersey
The jersey commemorates the strong connections between the Reds and the Australian men and women who served in our armed forces.
Limited stock is available for this one-of-a-kind jersey. Don't miss out, get yours… pic.twitter.com/xiXRiWZXsq
An Anzac service featuring military personnel will be held pre-match, with the Ode read by Wallaroos prop Bree-Anna Browne.
“The boys love the jersey…there is depth of understanding of something bigger than the game,” Kiss said.
Reds vs Blues battle for momentum
Kiss knows his side faces a formidable challenge against the in-form Blues, who thumped the Brumbies last round. “We know the task ahead of us on Saturday,” he said.
While satisfied with recent efforts against Kiwi opposition, Kiss wants an 80-minute display at Suncorp Stadium, where “the boys love it.”
How the Reds will fare against the high-flying Blues remains to be seen, but the substitutions have injected freshness into the starting side for a pivotal Anzac encounter.
The Queensland Reds are dealing with a rash of injuries and suspensions as they prepare to host the Highlanders this Friday, April 19. After a narrow 17-14 loss to Moana Pasifika last weekend, the Reds have lost several key players, putting their depth to the test. Reds vs Highlanders kickoff 5:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
Co-captain Tate McDermott and flanker Fraser McReight both received red cards in the match against Moana Pasifika, ruling them out for the upcoming game. Adding to the Reds’ woes, promising forward Seru Uru will be sidelined for up to six weeks after undergoing thumb surgery. Outside Josh Flook (shoulder) will also miss the match.
Head coach Les Kiss acknowledged the challenges his team is facing, calling the situation “not ideal.” However, he remains optimistic about the opportunity to test the depth of the Reds’ roster.
With the absences, Kiss is likely to shuffle his lineup for the crucial clash against the Highlanders. Jordan Petaia could move to outside centre to cover for Flook’s injury, while Mac Grealy is expected to return to the wing.
In the forward pack, Angus Blyth could start in place of the injured Uru, while Cormac Daly is another option to bolster the squad. Kiss may also promote Junior Wallabies back-rower John Bryant to replace the suspended McReight, or shift co-captain Liam Wright to his preferred position at openside flanker.
Reds look to bounce back against New Zealand opposition
The Reds will be eager to bounce back from their surprise defeat against Moana Pasifika, where Queensland lost the lead with less than two minutes to go.
Despite the challenges, Kiss remains confident in his team’s ability to respond and regain their early-season form.
“The opportunity in this now is to give a little bit more exposure to players who were playing off the bench and other players in the program to step up too,” he said.
A blockbuster backrow battle awaits as the Queensland Reds prepare to host the ACT Brumbies this Saturday, March 30. The Reds vs Brumbies Super Rugby double-header kickoff 4:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
McReight focused on improvement after Reds’ collapse
Photo Credit: Facebook/Queensland Reds
Reds flanker Fraser McReight is determined to put last week’s error-riddled 40-31 upset loss to the Western Force behind him as the Reds aim to rebound from disappointing defeats for both their men’s and women’s teams.
McReight acknowledged that Queensland were far from their best in Perth. He identified their set-piece play and preparation for away games as key areas for improvement.
“It’s on the road where it’s going to be very challenging,” he says.
“We’ve got some tough opponents coming up on the road, going to NZ, going to Fiji. It’s a great test, and we’ve just got to learn how the group goes together on away trips, how we can better prepare ourselves.”
He is also eagerly anticipating the matchup against the Brumbies’ in-form loose forward unit.
“They’re very athletic, aren’t they? Brumbies have a great backrow, they always have. I think it’s going to be a great match-up on the weekend,” McReight says.
Reds vs Brumbies : Queensland seek redemption after previous blowout defeat
Photo Credit: QLD Reds Rugby
With the memory of last year’s 24-52 home loss to the Brumbies still fresh, the Reds are determined to exact revenge.
“It’s always been such a close game, fortunately for them they were able to knock us over last year at Suncorp which is probably still hurting a few of us, so really really looking forward to this weekend.”
