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The Reds host the Brumbies at Suncorp in an important match considering the makeup of the Australian conference. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 7:40pm (AEST).
The Brumbies are coming off a solid, grinding performance against the Blues last week and now lead the Australian conference on 21 points.
Last week saw the Reds stumble at home against the Force – a team that become one of their main rivals in recent years. The loss has left them on 15 points and down in fourth on the ladder in the conference.
The Reds are not alone in losing to a less fancied opponent, as the Brumbies were soundly beaten by the Rebels two weeks ago.
Both teams have also played seven matches whereas the Rebels, Force and Waratahs have only played six. This means the Reds really need to win tonight to both halt the Brumbies gains at the top and to narrow the gap to the teams with a game in hand.
A loss for the Reds would make getting into the finals a very difficult prospect and would be the second loss to the Brumbies this year.
The Brumbies were strong in the forwards last week and welcome back Stephen Moore after a rest. He’ll be relied upon as some of the back five are relatively inexperienced.
Tom Staniforth is getting his debut and will start at second row – he is effectively a barman rather than a professional rugby player right now. Jarrad Butler and Jordan Smiler are also inexperienced in the back row.
The back row of the Reds – Jake Schatz, Beau Robinson and Eddie Quirk – has been criticised for not being dominant enough both around the park and in the breakdown. This week they’ll be looking to assert their game plan and tempo over their relatively inexperienced counterparts.
If there was a chance for Matt Toomua to steal the Wallabies number 10 jersey, tonight would be a great night to stand out. He’ll face off against Quade Cooper, who has been good this year despite not receiving as much attention as usual. The contrasting styles will be exciting to watch.
As will the battle between Will Genia and Nic White at the base of the ruck. The incumbent and sometimes masterful Genia and the relentless White do so much of the directing and tempo setting for their respective sides.
It all bodes well for an exciting match.
Don’t forget to log on here from 7.30pm for live scores, commentary and a chance to have your say!
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.