Reds beat Brumbies 30-21 in Brisbane Derby
Ben Volavola was part of the winning Reds side
©PA
Queensland Reds 30-21 Brumbies, Suncorp Stadium
The Queensland Reds completed a season derby double over the ACT Brumbies with a spirited 30-21 victory at Suncorp Stadium, moving into the Super Rugby Pacific top four and deepening the Brumbies’ recent slide.
It was a tough, seesawing Australian derby, but the Reds handled the key moments better. Fly-half Harry McLaughlin-Phillips played a decisive role, landing important penalty goals that gave Queensland the breathing room they needed.
Locks Trade Early Tries
The Brumbies struck early through Lachlan Shaw, who crossed from close range after a pick-and-go near the Reds line.
Queensland hit back quickly through Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, who powered over with a strong carry to level the contest. Both locks made an early impact in a physical opening spell.
McLaughlin-Phillips then edged the Reds ahead with a penalty before Queensland struck again just before halftime. Kalani Thomas placed a clever grubber into the Brumbies in-goal area, and Josh Flook reacted sharply to score.
Brumbies Fight Back After The Break
Another McLaughlin-Phillips penalty after halftime pushed the Reds into a strong position, but the Brumbies found a way back when Harry Wilson spilled the restart.
Rob Valetini capitalised from close range to cut the deficit, and the visitors then moved ahead when David Feliuai forced his way over after sustained pressure.
The Brumbies briefly had momentum, while Queensland’s lineout issues gave the visitors further encouragement.
Uru Try Restores Reds Control
Despite the pressure, the Reds steadied themselves. Seru Uru crossed for Queensland’s third try to put the hosts back in front and shift momentum again.
McLaughlin-Phillips then added another penalty late in the match to give the Reds a nine-point cushion and deny the Brumbies a losing bonus point.
It was a major win for Queensland, who climbed above the Brumbies and strengthened their push for a home final. For the Brumbies, a third straight defeat leaves them under pressure heading into the final stretch.
