Reds name unchanged squad for Blues clash

Queensland Reds coach Jeff Miller has named an unchanged squad for the Tooheys New Super 14 match against the Blues at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.

However Miller has made one change to the run on side with hooker Stephen Moore set to wear the No: 2 jersey and Sean Hardman to start the match from the bench, but it is not a reflection of being dissatisfied with Hardman’s performances.

“We’ve been very comfortable with that arrangement (Hardman starting),” Miller said.

“We just want to have a look at Stephen actually starting this weekend and bringing Sean on and seeing what effect that will have.”

“We really want to try attack the Blues, I don’t think there’s and secret there. Stephen’s just a bigger unit and is probably a better ball runner at the moment.”

After showing an increased competitive edge in the first two matches of the season, the Reds are well aware of how important maintaining and improving on their performances will be this week. Miller believes the fact that the Blues are also seeking their first win is going to make this weekend’s clash even tougher.

“I know that that’s very dangerous for us because they’ll come over here even more intense than they normally would have been.”

Miller has retained the backline from last week’s game. The dilemma surrounding how to fit Lloyd Johansson into the starting line up is one Miller believes will keep surfacing each week, with Flatley’s goal-kicking form and Berrick Barnes’s vision and direction around the field.

“I have to say we’re a bit reluctant to disrupt the formula that’s been working for us at the moment. But we need to take each game on its merit.”

The forced selection of Hugh McMeniman at flanker after the injury to John Roe is one not creating any headaches for the coach, after a solid performance by the two-metre giant.

Having beefed up 10kg to 113kg since the start of last season, McMeniman says he’s enjoying running with the ball and hopes to continue his great defensive work.

“I don’t mind a bit of contact ... I like to dominate my opposition,” he said.

He’s also enjoying the mood around the team as they continue to impress despite the early season defeats.

“There’s a lot of camaraderie in the team right now. Even though we lost to the Crusaders there was a special feeling there after the game.”

Rugby Super 14 - Round 3

Queensland Reds vs Auckland Blues
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Saturday February 25
Kick-Off: 7:35pm (QLD), 10:35pm (NZ)

Exclusively Live on Fox Sports from 7:30pm (QLD time)