The Queensland Reds defeated ‘Ikale Tahi 41-14 today at Teufaiva Stadium. Backrow duo Joe Brial and Seru Uru dominated in torrential conditions, while captain Jock Campbell impressed from fullback in the Reds’ second-half surge.
Veteran flyhalf James O’Connor was substituted for a head injury assessment before halftime in an otherwise unmarred performance. Tonga held Queensland 12-all before falling away late.
“Obviously a very physical game in the conditions, so I think in the second half we really wanted to play field position,” Campbell said post-game.
Moana Pasifika star Lotu Inisi opened the scoring with a barnstorming run, but Richie Asiata quickly responded for the Reds. Joe Brial crossed on the half-hour mark, and Tonga’s Siaosi Nai intercepted to square the ledger. A penalty try put Queensland ahead 19-12 at halftime.
This victory followed the Queensland women’s team’s 65-0 win over the Lofa.
