James O’Connor’s move to flyhalf backed by Reds skipper Tate McDermott

The Reds can guarantee themselves a Super Rugby Pacific finals berth with a win over Fijian Drua in Suva.

James O'Connor will provide the Reds with direction in Suva. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Queensland captain Tate McDermott has welcomed James O’Connor’s return to flyhalf, saying the veteran’s composure will be crucial to the Reds’ hopes of guaranteeing themselves a Super Rugby Pacific finals berth by beating Fijian Drua in Suva on Saturday.

A pressure-cooker atmosphere awaits the Reds, with the Drua – who are also fighting for a top-eight berth – to be spurred on by a loud and passionate home crowd.

O’Connor will partner McDermott in the halves after having spent several weeks at inside centre.

“He’s a class player and he calm – that’s exactly what we’re going to need (in Suva),” McDermott said of the 32-year-old former Reds skipper.

“There are going to be moments when we’re under pressure, and he’s calm, he’s composed, and the boys really respect his voice, so it’s going to be important that he steers the boys around.”

Reds star James O'Connor (centre) has been shifted to flyhalf. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

McDermott, who passed concussion protocols to make the trip to Fiji after being forced off in Queensland’s five-point loss to the Highlanders last week. said it was “crunch time” for the Reds.

“There’s no next week for the loser of this game,” he said.

“We’ve got to make sure we match them up front and restrict their ball movement.

“If we can get dominant contact around that collision zone, it will go long way towards getting a result.

“We’ve got a pretty tough mindset. A lot is centred on ourselves but at the same time you’ve got to respect their threats and try our best to shut them down.

“They are very good in front of their home fans and they’re a good side in general.”

Originally published as James O’Connor’s move to flyhalf backed by Reds skipper Tate McDermott