Reds win 'a long time coming'
The Reds' stunning 46-29 Super Rugby victory over the Melbourne Rebels in Brisbane on Friday has been "a long time coming".
This is the view of coach Richard Graham, who felt a massive weight lift off his shoulders, after ending a horror run that included eight defeats in nine matches.
The Reds had stars all over the park with Will Genia, Rob Simmons, James Slipper and Liam Gill all outstanding in the six tries to four victory.
Queensland had trailed 6-17, before producing 40 unanswered points.
Reds head coach Richard Graham commended his side for a well-earned victory.
"It has been a long-time coming," Graham told a media briefing in Brisbane.
"We always said if we keep working hard and believe in the things you are doing, you will get the result."
The Reds coach described it as an "excellent performance" following a really strong training week.
"All that we asked was for the players to remain focused on preparing well and if they did that the outcome would look after itself," he said.
"I am pleased for everyone involved with the Reds. The entire playing group deserves a lot of credit for the way they applied themselves.
"The professional rugby staff have continued to work hard to give the players the best environment possible.
"The QRU staff have worked in a tough environment to continue to provide all our stakeholders with an excellent experience. And the supporters who have stood by us tonight saw a performance that will put a smile on their faces.
"We felt that the last time we played the Rebels our first 20 minutes was on the money.
"We knew if we could replicate that for 80 minutes it'd allow us to create a lot of pressure. Our set piece laid a very good foundation to play, our forwards were direct and the backs capitalised on all the good work.
"The margins in sport are so small. You are only ever two consecutive wins away from growing in confidence and belief. The challenge now for the group is to ensure we have another good week's preparation and front up with the same approach next week against the Sharks."
Graham also praised starting flyhalf Jake McIntyre and reserve pivot Sam Greene for making a successful debut.
"Jake has been part of our program for two years. He was part of our successful Brisbane City NRC team and if he wasn't out injured since that time he may have received an opportunity earlier.
"To see he and Sam Greene make their debuts together was fantastic given their age and commitment to our programs."
