Blues beat Reds 36-33 in Super Point thriller

Blues 36-33 Queensland Reds, Christchurch

The Blues survived a brilliant Queensland Reds comeback to win 36-33 in Super Point at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch.

Beauden Barrett kicked the decisive penalty in extra time after the Reds had fought back from 21-7 down in the first half and 33-21 down late in regulation time.

Blues Build Early Control

The Blues made the stronger start and quickly opened up a 21-7 lead. Fullback Zarn Sullivan scored twice in the first half, while Cole Forbes also crossed as the Auckland side looked sharp in attack.

The Reds stayed in the contest through captain Fraser McReight, who hit back early, before Harry Wilson and Jock Campbell added important tries to bring Queensland level by halftime.

Despite the Blues’ early dominance, the Reds showed character and physicality, with Wilson, McReight, Kalani Thomas and Harry McLaughlin-Phillips all playing important roles in keeping the match alive.

Reds Fight Back Again Late

The Blues regained control after the break. Dalton Papali’i powered through several defenders to score early in the second half, before Bradley Slater finished from a rolling maul to stretch the lead to 33-21.

At that stage, the Reds looked under pressure, but they refused to fade. Tim Ryan produced a spectacular finish in the corner to reduce the margin, while also making a crucial defensive play earlier in the match.

With the clock almost gone, the Reds earned one final chance. After Barrett’s kick for touch failed to find major distance, Queensland worked their way close to the line and Louis Werchon burrowed over near the posts. Ben Volavola converted to level the match at 33-33 and force Super Point.

Barrett Wins It In Extra Time

The Blues had the first possession in extra time and applied pressure inside Reds territory. Queensland defended strongly for several minutes, but the decisive moment came when McReight was penalised for incorrect entry at the ruck.

The Reds captain questioned the call, believing there may have been a Blues knock-on in the same passage, but the penalty stood.

Barrett stepped up from a slight angle and slotted the kick to seal a dramatic 36-33 win for the Blues.