It was a 13-try battle as the Reds began their 2025 campaign with a 56-36 win over Moana Pasifika at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.
The Reds came out firing scoring three tries on the trot within the first 11 minutes. Wallabies’ halfback Tate McDermott was explosive, helping assist his team to an early try scored by Seru Uru.
Moana Pasifika kept their cool, staying persistent and slowly building phases. After three consecutive penalties going their way, the visitors took advantage.
Captain Ardie Savea lead from the front and was unwavering on the move, scoring Moana Pasifika’s first try of the night.
Despite three yellow cards in the first half, the Reds continued to apply pressure leading 21-8 at halftime.
Number 8 Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa was impressive in his debut start for Moana Pasifika, powerful with every carry after coming in as a late addition to the starting 15.
Going into the second half Moana Pasifika’s defence was scrambling early as the Reds carried on their strong performance. Hooker Matt Faessler came off the bench and crossed the line for the Reds first try of the 2nd half.
But Moana Pasifika stayed in the fight, with some glimpses of flair throughout the match. Dynamic playmaker William Havili was instrumental in the backline, helping to set up his teammates.
Havili’s run into space and long bomb pass lead to winger Solomon Alaimalo hitting the gas and scoring his first try in Moana colours.
Young star Kyren Taumoefolau also put on a show scoring double, taking him to four tries in the first two games of the season. The 21-year-old continues to go from strength to strength, with the confidence and finesse to take him far.
The Reds own 21-year-old playmaker Tom Lynagh contributed 16 points, successfully making all 8 of his conversions.
As Moana Pasifika attempted to close the gap late in the game, the Reds continued to stand strong not letting up. The home team took the lead out to 49 –29 with 8 minutes left of play, making it a difficult task for the visitors to recover from.
Moana Pasifika now return home to Auckland and prepare to play the Highlanders at North Harbour Stadium next Friday.
Moana Pasifika: 36
Tries: Ardie Savea, Solomon Alaimalo, Kyren Taumoefolau (2) and Allan Craig.
Conversions: William Havili – 4
Penalty goals: William Havili – 1
Queensland Reds: 56
Tries: Seru Uru, Filipo Daugunu, Tim Ryan, Matt Faessler, Angus Blyth, Ryan Smith, Fraser McReight and Harry McLaughlin-Phillips.
Conversions: Tom Lynagh – 8
What the teams said about the match
Moana Pasifika captain, Ardie Savea
Moana Pasifika co-captain, Tate McDermott
“Really happy, job done and it was our first game of the year so we weren’t expecting perfection but I’m super proud of that fight. 30 minutes, three yellow cards, crazy stuff. The way the boys responded and the way they kept showing up was incredible. “
ENDS
See all news
