Reds Aim to Exploit Zac Lomax’s Inexperience in Key Matchup
Queensland Reds captain Fraser McReight has revealed the team’s strategy for Saturday night’s clash against the Western Force, with a focus on exploiting the inexperience of former NRL star Zac Lomax. The ex-Parramatta Eels winger, who recently transitioned to rugby union, is set to make his Super Rugby Pacific debut off the bench.
McReight acknowledged Lomax’s immense talent, describing him as “unbelievable” and highlighting his strengths in handling high balls, power, and athleticism. However, he also pointed out that Lomax may lack the rugby union knowledge required to succeed at this level.
“We hope that we can exploit his (lack of) knowledge of the game, especially if he’s coming on in the back three,” McReight said. “Hopefully, we can pin him in a corner or use our kicking game to help us out.”
The Reds are eager to bounce back from their recent 52-14 defeat to the Hurricanes, which ended their hopes of securing a fifth consecutive win. This loss served as a wake-up call for the team, prompting them to refocus and play their usual brand of football.
“The Force are tough, they’re gritty. They go the whole 80 minutes, so for us, we’re really excited to play our style of football again, especially after the performance we had against the Hurricanes, which wasn’t up to our standards,” McReight explained.
The Reds’ chances of success will be bolstered by the return of Wallabies flyhalf Carter Gordon, who has missed the past two games. McReight praised Gordon’s form, stating that it speaks for itself.
Gordon’s return means Harry McLaughlin-Phillips will drop to the bench. However, McReight emphasized the importance of McLaughlin-Phillips’ role, particularly in the final 20 minutes of games.
“(McLaughlin-Phillips) has done a fantastic job … and he’ll get a chance again this week to finish the game,” McReight said. “He’s got a really specific and important role for us. Those last 20 minutes against the Force in those two games last year were kind of where the money was won (by the Reds).”
“With the bench being crucial for us to get the result, we need them to step up this weekend.”
The Western Force, on the other hand, are desperate for a win after losing five of their six games this season. Their coach, Simon Kron, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to improve.
“We’ve just got to nail down those key moments in the game and the boys have been working on that,” Kron said. “It’s been impressive to watch. We’ve just got to go out and do it on the field.”
As the match approaches, both teams are preparing for a high-stakes encounter. The Reds are determined to reclaim their form, while the Force are looking to break their losing streak. With Lomax set to make his debut, the spotlight will be on how he adapts to the demands of rugby union. For the Reds, the challenge is clear: exploit any weaknesses in Lomax’s game and capitalize on their own strengths to secure a much-needed victory.
