On March 15, 2025, the Queensland Reds demonstrated their prowess on the rugby field by defeating the NSW Waratahs 35-15 at Suncorp Stadium, marking a significant victory against their long-time rivals. The match showcased the Reds' dominance, as they rallied from an early scare to pile on 28 unanswered points, effectively ending the Waratahs' unbeaten start to the Super Rugby Pacific season.
Triston Reilly of the Waratahs stunned the Reds early on, scoring within the third minute after receiving a well-placed assist from fellow scrum-half Teddy Wilson. This early lead, enthralling the visiting supporters, showcased the Waratahs' intent to assert dominance right from the start. They initially appeared on track to continue their strong form, maintaining momentum when they led 8-7 after 25 minutes. The Waratahs' early confidence, boosted by Reilly's try, quickly gave way as they faced headwinds.
Things shifted dramatically when Waratahs fullback Andrew Kellaway was shown a yellow card for a dangerous tackle on Reds captain Harry Wilson, temporarily leaving his team reduced to 14 players. This moment proved pivotal, as it allowed the Reds to exploit the numerical advantage. Fullback Heremaia Murray quickly responded for the Reds, scoring his own try shortly after, and leveling the scoreline. Harry Wilson put the Reds on the front foot with his own try just as they were beginning to claim control of the game, transforming the match dynamic.
"We’ve pushed them off kilter, and I was really proud of how we clawed our way back," Reds coach Les Kiss noted, referencing his team's response to the early setback. With momentum firmly on their side, the Reds capitalized on their advantage, creating scoring opportunities through solid teamwork and strategic plays.
The Reds' resurgence continued as backrow player Fraser McReight, who had just re-signed with the Queensland Rugby Union and Rugby Australia for another three years, demonstrated his scoring prowess with a brilliant try. Wilson's earlier injury raised concerns among fans, but it seemed the Red's grit and determination had not waned.
Despite the clash of titans, injuries began to take their toll on both teams. McReight left the field with what looked to be a significant shoulder injury just minutes after celebrating his try. The injury could not have come at a worse time for the Reds, who are counting on McReight’s performance as they pursue the title. Kiss provided some relief, stating McReight's injury did not appear to be serious but acknowledged the anxiety surrounding his condition.
The Reds were relentless, pushing forward with authority as their next star, Richie Asiata, crashed over for another try following a well-executed 20-meter maul. The intensity of the match continued to rise, but it seemed to be the Reds’ day on the field. With the home crowd cheering them on and the score sitting comfortably at 21-8 heading toward halftime, the Reds had turned the game entirely on its head.
The second half saw Reds winger Angus Blyth extend the lead with yet another try, effectively sealing the match with the score at 35-15. Langi Gleeson’s late consolation try for the Waratahs came across as mere formality, snuffing out any residual hope for the visitors.
//Triston Reilly and Langi Gleeson were among the highlights for the Waratahs, but their performance highlighted the issues faced following Kellaway's costly yellow card and the inability to suppress Queensland’s conditioning and teamwork.
Overall, this match not only showcased the skillful gameplay typical of Aussie rugby but also presented the stark rivalry between the Reds and Waratahs. With the Reds now peaking at the right time, speculation is rife about their capability of claiming their first Super Rugby title since 2021.
“After the tough loss to the Crusaders last week, this victory against the Waratahs is massive for us,” noted Reds fly-half Tom Lynagh, whose flawless kicking performance included five successful conversions. Lynagh's calm disposition under pressure was evident throughout, contributing to the overall success of the team. Lynagh’s age belies his performance depth, and experts anticipate his growth as he continues to mature on the field.
With the Reds' recent performance, they have certainly positioned themselves as serious contenders. Super Rugby Pacific remains competitive, but interestingly, Wallabies coach's speculation surrounding les Kiss is on the rise following this victory to potentially lead the national team.