The Reds ended the Chiefs’ nine-game winning streak with a 42-27 victory in Brisbane on Sunday. The win keeps their title defence hopes alive, and has helped build momentum in time for the return of star flyhalf, Quade Cooper.
The Queensland outfit are ninth on the overall Super Rugby table, but with the conference system, they sit in second place in the Australian section, so still have a good chance of making the playoffs.
They came from 22-8 down against the table topping Chiefs, scoring four tries in 10 minutes, including a brilliant 60 metre solo effort from halfback Will Genia. He’ll be buoyed by the return of flyhalf Cooper, who makes his comeback this weekend against the bottom of the table Lions.
Cooper has been out of action with a damaged ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament in the knee) since the Rugby World Cup in October 2011. He says he’s prepared well and is ready to get out there.
“Everything which could be done has been done and the rest is now out of my hands,” said Cooper.
“It has been a long six-plus months on the sideline and I know I’ve done everything I can to tick all the boxes during my rehab and have been as diligent as possible to ensure I am ready to return
“I’ll be going out on Saturday knowing I’ve done everything within my power to be prepared both physically and mentally and it’s now about going out and doing the best that I can for the team.
“It has been special to see all the support I’ve had from fans while I’ve been injured and all their well-wishes just make you more determined to get back out there. They’ve been a real motivator during my rehab and I hope to see them all out at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.”
The Chiefs scored some excellent tries too, hence featuring these highlights on the homepage, but remember you can view all other Super Rugby Highlights in our archived section too.
Sign In