Reds tweak winning formula for Force
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Following last week’s thrilling win over the Brumbies in Canberra, the Queensland Reds have made just the one change to their starting XV for Saturday’s home match against the Western Force Force at Suncorp Stadium.
Electric outside back Ilaisa Droasese will make his Super Rugby starting debut on the wing, with fellow Fijian flyer Filipo Daugunu unavailable due to personal reasons.
Reds Academy product and Ipswich Grammar schoolboy sensation Kalani Thomas could make his Super Rugby debut via the bench in one-of-two changes to the Reds’ reserves, as Hamish Stewart returns to the matchday 23 as a replacement this weekend.
Queensland will look to keep their unbeaten start to the season in-tact, as they aim for a ninth straight win at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.
Reds head coach Brad Thorn said: “It’s good to be back at home this week.
“Suncorp Stadium – it’s called the cauldron for a reason. Queenslanders are some of the most passionate fans and we’re looking forward to seeing a big crowd there on Saturday night.
“The Force are a quality team who we respect. They have plenty of experience and will make the trip across from Perth looking for a result. We’re expecting a tough match against a good opposition.
“Well done to Kalani on being selected. There could be an opportunity for him on Saturday night. He’s come through the pathway here – an Ipswich Grammar and Reds Academy product. He’s still only 18 and has been working hard within our program,” said Thorn.
Reds: 15 Jock Campbell, 14 Suliasi Vunivalu, 13 Jordan Petaia, 12 Hunter Paisami, 11 Ilaisa Droasese, 10 James O’Connor (captain), 9 Tate McDermott, 8 Harry Wilson, 7 Fraser McReight, 6 Angus Scott-Young, 5 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 4 Angus Blyth, 3 Taniela Tupou, 2 Alex Mafi, 1 Dane Zander.
Replacements: 16 Brandon Paenga-Amosa, 17 Harry Hoopert, 18 Zane Nonggorr, 19 Ryan Smith, 20 Seru Uru, 21 Kalani Thomas, 22 Hamish Stewart, 23 Bryce Hegarty.
Date: Saturday, March 20
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Kick-off: 18.45 (16.45 AWST; 08.45 GMT)
Referee: Damon Murphy
Assistant referees: Nic Berry, Reuben Keane
TMO: Brett Cronan
