Reds must stay \"online\" against Chiefs: Kerevi

Fri, May 5, 2017, 3:49 AM
Sam Phillips
by Sam Phillips
It was a heartbreaking loss to their state rivals last weekend but will it fire up the Reds to become the first Australian side to beat a New Zealand team when they take on the Chiefs? Here's a full round 11 preview with Wallaby #786 Matt Dunning.

If the Reds are to stand a chance against the Chiefs, Samu Kerevi says his team must stay "online" for the entire 80 minutes.

The Queensland team that fell short against the Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium last Saturday was an improved one in so many aspects.

But one of the aspects that remain unaddressed is the inability to play an entire match with the ferocity that Nick Stiles desires.

It is a cliche as old as the sport itself but it is just so crucial to play as well in the 1st minute as you do in the 80th.

The Reds have failed to do that in two games they should have won this year - the Crusaders heartbreaker and the aforementioned Waratahs game - and have paid the price of eight competition points.Kerevi received plenty of attention against the Tahs. Photo: Getty ImagesThat may have something to do with some lacklustre bench performances but if that trend continues against the Chiefs it will become 12 competition points gone begging, as they are without question one of Super Rugby's most dangerous teams.

"We speak about it each week but it's staying online for every moment," Kerevi said.

"If we stay online for every moment and win every moment that we get, this is a big weekend for us."

Kerevi has previously said outside centre is his preferred position but there are plenty of good judges that believe 12 is where he is best suited.Campbell Magnay is back in the Queensland starting XV. Photo: QRU MediaHe gets that opportunity this weekend as Campbell Magnay lines up outside of him - a change forced by the absence of Karmichael Hunt, with Duncan Paia'aua shifting to fullback.

Magnay is one of the highest rated prospects at Ballymore and Kerevi is excited to see him in full flight.

"I'm excited for him - it's been a long year to get back to playing for him," he said.

"It's an exciting opportunity and for me, I just have to do the job that I can at 12.

"Obviously I've got to build that relationship with Campbell for this week and I think it's going to go really well."

The Reds take on the Chiefs at Yarrow Stadium tomorrow afternoon, kicking off at 5:35pm AEST, broadcast LIVE on FOX SPORTS.

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