Queensland Reds out to make major statement

Wed, Apr 7, 2021, 1:00 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Melbourne Rebels host the Reds in Round Seven of Harvey Norman Super Rugby AU at AAMI Park in Melbourne.

Reds number eight Harry Wilson is confident that a win over the Brumbies will cement their status as the top Super Rugby team in Australia.

The Reds are looking at Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash with the Brumbies as the prime opportunity to establish themselves as the premier Super Rugby team in Australia.

Watch every minute of Super Rugby AU on Stan Sport. Start your Free Sport Trial Now

They enter Round Eight as the only unbeaten team across Super Rugby AU and Aotearoa, producing a dominant 44-19 win over the Rebels last Saturday.

Brad Thorn's men will be looking to replicate their efforts from Round Four when they face the defending champion Brumbies, who they beat in a thriller at GIO Stadium.

With hosting rights for the Grand Final on the line, Reds number eight Harry Wilson believes that it’s time for the Queensland-based side to make a statement in front of their home fans.

“These are the games you pencil down every year that you want to be involved in,” he told reporters.

“You want to make a statement because they've been the best team in Australia for the last five years.

“We think it's our time to show that we're the best team in Australia.

“We just got the win last time in Canberra but we're playing this weekend in front of our home supporters and we're pretty keen to make a statement that's for sure.”

Hunter strikes and runs 80!

The Reds looks set to receive a boost, with injured captain Liam Wright racing the clock to be fit for the grand final rematch.

Wright (ankle) has missed the entirety of the Super Rugby AU season so far due to an ankle injury suffered in their lone trial match against the Waratahs.

“He’s been training well,” Wilson said on Wright.

“He’s been putting a bit of pressure on us who are in there at the moment.

“We’ll find out tomorrow but he’s fit and strong and should be ready to go soon.

Whilst Wright’s inclusion would lift the Reds, Wilson believes that the side’s ‘next man up’ attitude ensures that they can match it with any opponent.

READ MORE:

BUBBLE BOOST: Super Rugby Trans Tasman set to soar

MILLER TIME: From the farm to grand final rematch

ENTER THE MATRIX: O'Connor embracing captaincy

“That’s what Brad’s been trying to build for a while. We’ve got so much depth in every position and everyone’s bought in and wants to be a part of the team," he said.

“No matter what the team or leader is, everyone buys in and does what’s best for the team.

“James [O’Connor] has jumped in the leadership role for the last six weeks, probably out of his comfort zone a bit, but he’s done a great job and I’m sure he’s excited to get Liam back.”

It’s going to be a top-of-the-table clash when the Reds take on the Brumbies at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night, kicking off at 7.45pm AEST, catch all the action LIVE on Stan Sports and simulcast on 9Gem, click here to purchase tickets.

Share
Super Rugby Pacific Round Six Preview
Force 'heart and soul' Pomare set to reach rare Super W milestone
Michael Hooper is excited about the challenge of playing Sevens in Hong Kong. Photo: Nick Holland/RA Media
'Rookie' ex-Wallabies skipper Hooper ready to step up Sevens unknown
'Brumbies DNA': Wallabies selections on the line for Reds clash - Larkham