Queensland Reds vs Crusaders: Match preview - Super Rugby
The current season of Super Rugby has produced lots of nail-biting matches. A similar exciting contest is expected between Super Rugby table-topper, Queensland Reds and Crusaders in Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, on May 29. Both the sides are well prepared and
helped by their best players for this particular pressure game.
The Reds have maintained their team from their previous match against the Blues, played on May 13. Whereas the Crusaders will make couple of changes with Brad Thorn and Sonny Bill Williams back into the side after healing from injuries.
The Reds have got a slight edge to carry the day for their consistent performance in the ongoing Super Rugby championship. Otherwise the contest is totally unpredictable. The top spot Reds are sticking to their position on the tables for a while now and
they will leave no stone unturned to snatch victory from the jaws and claws of Crusaders to stay on top. Otherwise, they may have to vacate the first place for South African derby Stormers, who are currently in third position with nine victories after 12 outgoings.
On the other hand, the Crusaders, the fourth best side, are very excited for their toughest game of the tournament. The Crusaders will go in the match with maximum depth and potential as their star pair of players comes back from injuries.
The Reds have won the only game against the Crusaders back in 1999, when they outclassed Christchurch based derby by 41-20. The overall record of Super Rugby clearly favours the Crusaders.
The Reds will largely depend on James Horwill, Quade Cooper and Will Genia for Sunday’s fixture. The trio has played exceptionally well in the season and helped their side with flying tries, well executed conversions and penalty kicks.
The Crusaders are looking forward to their skipper Richie McCaw, Dan Carter and Sonny Bill Williams. The Crusaders have scored 41 tries in their 12 matches and Reds are a little behind with 38. However, the Reds have got a minor advantage on the Crusaders
at scrum pack.
Crusaders:15. Tom Marshall, 14. Brent Ward, 13. Robbie Fruean, 12. Sonny Bill Williams, 11. Zac Guildford, 10. Dan Carter, 9. Willi Heinz, 8. Kieran Read, 7. Richie McCaw 6. George Whitelock, 5. Chris Jack, 4. Brad Thorn 3. Owen Franks, 2. Corey Flynn, 1.
Wyatt Crockett Reserves: 16. Quentin MacDonald, 17. Ben Franks, 18. Luke Romano, 19.Joe Wheeler, 20. Steve Alfeld, 21. Matt Berquist, 22. Ryan Crotty
Queensland Reds: Ben Lucas, Luke Morahan, Anthony Faingaa, Ben Tapuai, Digby Ioane, Quade Cooper, Will Genia; Radike Samo, Beau Robinson, Scott Higginbotham, James Horwill (c), Rob Simmons, James Slipper, Saia Faingaa, Ben Daley. Reserves: James Hanson,
Greg Holmes, Adam Wallace-Harrison, Jake Schatz, Ian Prior, Will Chambers, Dom Shipperley.
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