Queensland Reds no closer to nailing down starting goalkicker

The battle to claim the Queensland Reds kicking tee for the 2020 Super Rugby will be the hottest in years with seven potential goalkickers vying for the coveted mantle.

The battle to claim the Queensland Reds kicking tee for the 2020 Super Rugby will be the hottest in years with seven potential goalkickers vying for the coveted mantle.

The hire of former England kicking guru Dr Dave Alred to mentor the squad’s kickers ahead of last season is paying dividends in depth never before seen at Ballymore.

Incumbent Bryce Hegarty will have his hands full staving off the challenges from likely flyhalf Isaac Lucas, wingers Jock Campbell and Filipo Daugunu, scrumhalf Scott Malolua, centre Hamish Stewart.

DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND - FEBRUARY 27: James O'Connor of the Reds kicks a goal during the round three Super Rugby match between the Highlanders and the Reds at Forsyth Barr Stadium on February 27, 2015 in Dunedin, New Zealand. (Photo by Rob Jefferies/Getty Images)

The injection of former Wallabies sharpshooter James O’Connor into the mix only heightens competition for the tee in round one.

Lucas said Alred’s experience mentoring Jonny Wilkinson and Jonathan Sexton has helped to drive his kicking game to new heights.

“It’s been a work-on for me my whole journey but with Davey on board it feels like it’s onwards and upwards,” the 20-year-old said.

Utility back Isaac Lucas shows off the new Queensland Reds alternate jersey that will be worn in trials and when jersey colours clash on the road in 2020. Picture: Brendan Hertel, QRU

“It’s the little things he passes onto you and the approach to training, being constantly ‘on’ and not leaving things to chance.

“He talks about (Sexton) often because he’s got the same work-ons as we do so he relates that to us.

“It’s clichéd to say but the competition to kick is really healthy for the team.

“I don’t think I can tell you who will start yet but off the back of last year, Bryce (Hegarty) kicked well at upwards of 80 per cent and he’s been looking to improve.”