Miller calls for team to step up

Queensland coach Jeff Miller has called on his team to step up against Cheetahs in their Friday night clash in Bloemfontein.

Speaking ahead of the Reds final training session, Miller said preparations for the game had been sharp.

“Spirit is really high and the guys are looking forward to this game,” he said.

“It’s a big challenge for us having lost Chris Latham and Elton Flatley but in saying that it gives a number of guys an opportunity to step up and really take control.”

Replacement fullback Drew Mitchell is one player Miller has singled out.

“Drew is set for a really big game,” he said.

Mitchell himself is looking forward to the challenge and is hoping to have a positive impact on the match.

“At fullback you get a bit more freedom than you do on the wing,” Mitchell said.

“You can come in when you want and try and get involved as much as you can, so I’ll be looking to do that and I’m definitely looking forward to it.”

Miller also said the forwards needed to “take a massive step up” to meet the significant challenge that the Cheetahs will present.

Discipline continues to be spoken about within the team, with Miller hoping his players can maintain the discipline shown in last couple of weeks to limit the number of chances they give to the Cheetahs flyhalf Meyer Bosman.

Bosman kicked eight penalties and a conversion against the Stormers, and at altitude Miller is expecting him to take some long range shots on Friday if given the opportunity.

But the Reds have their own long-range specialist in the new go-to man, Julian Huxley.

“He’ll play a very important role for us, not only in attack but also in his goal kicking. It’s great that we’ve got Berrick Barnes back and Ben Tune as well.”

Skipper John Roe has plenty of respect for the Cheetahs who, although being new to the Super 14 competition, are a strong team, taking out last year’s South African provincial title, the Currie Cup.

“They’re a very, very good side and we’re getting ready for a very big game tomorrow night,” Roe said.

One of the Cheetahs strengths is their ability to play tight and also to play a wide game.

“We’ve got to be ready for the contact and for the intensity,” Roe said.

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