Queensland Reds desperate to avoid a hat-trick of losses to New Zealand opponents

The Queensland Reds are intent on eliminating costly errors that are being pounced on by clinical Kiwi rivals.

The Queensland Reds must cash in on the “money minutes” either side of half-time if they are to secure a breakthrough Super Rugby Pacific win against New Zealand opposition at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.

The Reds are desperate to beat the Highlanders after successive losses to the Hurricanes and the Chiefs.

In both of those defeats, the Reds started well and led early – to the tune of 17 points against the Hurricanes – only to be let down a variety of factors, including poor discipline and handling and kicking errors, late in the first half and early in the second half.

“We talk about money minutes and the 10 minutes either side of half-time has been poor for us,” Reds fullback Jock Campbell said.

“We started well early and then in that 20 minutes we let the Kiwi teams back in, so we’re really focusing on those minutes this weekend, and hopefully get a good start and maintain that instead of letting them back in the fight.”

Reds coach Brad Thorn is also demanding an “80-minute” performance from his team.

Reds coach Brad Thorn is demanding an 80-minute display from his team. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

“We had opportunities but made errors at crucial times and when you’re up against good opposition in the Hurricanes and then Chiefs, they usually take their opportunities so you’ve got to make the most of your own,” Thorn said.

Injuries that have hurt the Reds all season continue to plague the Queenslanders with key Wallabies pair Taniela Tupou (calf) and Hunter Paisami (shoulder) having joined a casualty list that still includes star flyhalf James O’Connor (knee).

“We’ve haven’t talked about injuries. We haven’t talked about James or these other guys and I see that as a positive,” Thorn said.

“We were missing Jordy (Petaia) and James (O’Connor) last week and fell two points short so if we kick a goal or we make the most of our opportunities we get the result.

“”We have a belief that if you put on the maroon jersey we expect you to do the job and compete to win.

“We’re not worried about the names. It’s awesome to have those players but there’s other guys there who will be ripping in.”

In good news for Queensland, Campbell has re-signed with the Reds and Rugby Australia until the end of 2024

“The Reds gave me a shot back in 2019 and I’m really proud to be a product of the Queensland pathway,” Campbell said.

“Being a part of the Wallabies squad this year has only motivated me to reach the next level and I’m doing everything I can to wear the gold jersey in the future.”

Reds: Harry Hoopert, Richie Asiata, Feao Fotuaika, Ryan Smith, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Seru Uru, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott (c), Lawson Creighton, Jordan Petaia, Hamish Stewart, Hunter Paisami, Suliasi Vunivalu, Jock Campbell. Bench: Matt Faessler, Dane Zander, Albert Anae, Angus Blyth, Angus Scott-Young, Spencer Jeans, Josh Flook, Filipo Daugunu.