Last-Minute Try Denies Reds Historic Upset Against Wales at Suncorp Stadium

In a thrilling encounter at Suncorp Stadium, the Queensland Reds saw their hopes for a remarkable upset dashed in the dying moments of a gripping match against Wales. The game, held on Friday night, concluded with a nail-biting score of 36-35 in favor of the visiting Welsh side, marking their first victory of 2024.

The contest featured a rollercoaster of a second half, with the Reds staging a commendable comeback from a daunting 31-14 deficit shortly after halftime. The Reds’ tenacity was exemplified by a remarkable hat-trick by Richie Asiata, solidifying his role as a key player as the game progressed.

A thrilling crowd of 23,164 spectators created an electrifying atmosphere, making this the largest attendance for a Reds match in three years. Fans were treated to an extraordinary display, as both teams engaged in a high-paced, thrilling contest that saw a total of eleven tries scored on the night.

Wales initially took control of the game, building a convincing 31-14 lead shortly after the interval. The visitors were propelled forward by a determined effort from their forward pack, although the Reds showcased their strength and spirit as they fought to stay in the contest.

Warren Gatland, Wales’ head coach, credited his team for demonstrating resilience after suffering nine consecutive Test defeats prior to this match. Despite the setbacks, the annual visitors remained hungry for a victory during their Australian tour.

Wales surged ahead early in the match, with Archie Griffin scoring the opening try and Regan Grace making a notable impression, marking his debut in union with a dazzling try alongside Rio Dyer. This consecutive scoring and command of the field early on motivated the Welsh side as they sealed a 19-7 lead.

Throughout the match, the Reds maintained their belief and spirit, continuously applying pressure. James O’Connor nearly brought the Reds back into the game with an impressive run, but a knock-on ruled out the potential try. The Reds’ indomitable effort paid off when the Welsh hooker Evan Lloyd received a yellow card for repeated infringements, leading to Asiata scoring his first try from a powerful rolling maul.

As the first half drew to a close, Wales was able to stretch their advantage, capitalizing on a mistake by Mac Grealy, going into halftime with a comfortable 24-14 lead.

In an inspiring display of teamwork, the Reds rallied. The introduction of new Rebels trio Lachlan Anderson, Matt Gibbon, and Josh Canham fueled their fight back. Canham’s debut was particularly impactful, facilitating Asiata’s second try, which cut the deficit significantly.

With ten minutes remaining, and the score at 35-31 in favor of the Reds, tensions were high as both teams vied for control. The rush of adrenalin sparked an explosive counter-attack from the Reds, which culminated in Grealy scoring his second try of the night and putting the Reds ahead.

Wales, however, was not to be outdone. In a dramatic finish to the match, Welsh scrumhalf Kieran Hardy capitalized on several phases of attack deep in the Reds’ territory to score a last-minute try. His effort, executed with precision, sealed a hard-fought victory for the tourists, much to the dismay of the locals.

Despite the heartbreaking defeat, the Reds showed impressive fortitude, especially considering they were without nine designated Wallabies due to international duties and injuries. The performance of Mac Grealy, who ended his 2024 try drought, stood out as a silver lining amid the close encounter.

This match not only served as a testament to the Reds’ potential but also highlighted a thrilling chapter in the ongoing rugby narrative between Australia and Wales. The passionate support from a sizeable crowd at Suncorp Stadium symbolizes the resurgence of rugby enthusiasm in the region.

As spectators left Suncorp, the palpable sense of excitement hung in the air, with fans hopeful that the Reds’ performance foreshadows a promising future for Queensland rugby. The overarching sentiment was clear: while victory eluded them this time, their journey is just beginning.