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Despite making a scrappy start, the early signs for the Queensland Reds and their fans are ones of great promise. For as long as sport has graced our world, one thing has been universally agreed upon when it comes to discussing a champion team.
A champion team has the ability to take the field, not play to their ability, and yet manage to get the job done. No matter how unattractive.
The Queensland Reds, taking to the field with something not experienced in Queensland Rugby for some time now (expectation), did exactly that.
For 80 minutes, the Reds fluffed chances, gave away needless penalties, played large chunks of the match in defence, and yet at the full time siren, the score was in their favour.
When Saia Fainga crossed in the corner to put the Reds ahead, there was a feeling that they would begin to open the Force right up.
This looked to be on the cards, as they went straight back down inside the attacking 22, when a Cooper-bullet rocketed off Anthony Faingaa’s chest onto James O’Connor’s toe before he gathered to dash 80m and put the Force back ahead.
It was a killer blow.
But this was not a Reds team of three years ago. The Reds gave Super Rugby fans around the world a look into what they will be made of this year as they returned inside the Force’s 22, pushing for a winning try.
This eventually came when reserve hooker James Hanson crashed over before Cooper converted to put and end to the scoring with the Reds prevailing 21-20.
The Queensland Reds showed grit, determination and a never-say-die attitude. These are attributes only carried by a champion team.
Although early, signs are good in Queensland. In one game they have now cleared all the painful memories carried by the faithful fans: memories of promise, but the inability to win the tight and scrappy games.
It will surprise no one if Saturday turns out to be the Reds’ worst performance of the season. The team is young, the team is hungry and Queensland Rugby may be on the verge of achieving greatness once again.
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.