The Queensland Reds qualified for the first ever Super Rugby final as they beat the Auckland Blues 30-13 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane yesterday. They will host the Crusaders next weekend, after they beat the Stormers in the other semifinal in Cape Town.
‘Rocket’ Rod Davies scored a hat-trick of tries, the first ever by a Reds player, as the Queensland side showed how much they’ve come on as a unit in the last two years. Marshalled by Will Genia and Quade Cooper, the Reds too their chances when it mattered.
An intercept try and a few moments of brilliance from Cooper were ultimately the difference between the two sides, but that’s not to take away from an excellent forward pack who provided the exciting backs with the ball they needed. In the end they’d scored four tries, to the one of the Blues.
“I think we can be excited. Weve won a Semi-Final and weve put ourselves in the position to host the Super Rugby Final,” said Reds captain James Horwill.
They will host the Crusaders in a final next weekend that ironically, sees two sides from cities that have both suffered horrific natural disasters in recent times.
“Its all good for Queensland and these events are great for the fans to be able to turn up,” said coach Ewen McKenzie. “Were just pleased to be making a contribution and not just sitting and watching on TV.”
Time:
05:42
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