The Queensland Reds have proved too strong for the Melbourne Rebels in their opening clash of the 2019 U18sAcademy Series, defeating the hosts 46-14 on Sunday afternoon at Brimbank Rugby Club in Melbourne
With the visitors ahead at half time 19-14, the second half was up for grabs. However, Queensland came out powering leaving the home side scoreless and closing out the match. 46-14.
The Rebels will next take on RugbyWA at Brimbank on July 19, while the Reds will break before reconvening at Ballymore in September for a doubleheader against both the Brumbies and NSW Waratahs Academy.
Glen Vaihu started the match on the front foot scoring two back to back tries in the opening exchanges of the game to push the Queensland side ahead. Christian Krause followed suit and was next to cross the line with Dion Samuela slotting the extras giving the reds an early 19-0 lead.
However, Justin Laulaulo and Rupeni Niubalavu would cross next on their home ground, with Darcy Peel adding the extras and narrowing the gap 19-14 at the end of the first half.
With a five-point margin keeping them in the lead the Queensland’s coaching staff called on the fresh legs in the second half. Having an immediate effect, Jojo Fifita, Titi Nofoagatotoa, Kennan Timu and Joshua Flook crossed the line extending the Reds lead, Samuela again added the extras and saw the Reds surge ahead 31-14 on the scoreboard.
Flook crossed again for the final try of the match and secured the Queensland sides inaugural victory 46-14.
Melbourne Rebels Academy 14 (Justin Laulualo, Rupeni Niubalavu tries; Darcy Peel 2 cons) defeated by Queensland Reds Academy 46 (Glen Vaihu 2, Joshua Flook 2, Christian Krause, Jojo Fifita, Titi Nofoagatotoa, Kennan Timu tires; Dion Samuela 3 cons)
