Reds coach hits back at Brisbane-born Waratahs counterpart ahead of derby

Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss has hit back at Waratahs counterpart Dan McKellar as the two rival teams prepare to face off at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Saturday. Both coaches have had a bit of fun in the lead-up to another grudge match between two fierce foes.

About 40 minutes after the Waratahs’ big win over the Western Force in Sydney last weekend, McKellar described the Reds as “the best team” in Super Rugby Pacific, only for the Queenslanders to lose for the first time this season less than 24 hours later.

After starting their campaign with wins over Moana Pasifika and the Force, the Reds were beaten by the Crusaders 43-19 on Sunday afternoon. As for the Waratahs, they’re still unbeaten after kicking off their new era under McKellar against the Highlanders, Fijian Drua and Force.

McKellar seemed quite serious when giving the Reds that sought-after label, only to be asked about that comment with the final question of that press conference. With a wink and a smirk, McKellar doubled down with both praise and a pressure-fuelled jab.

Kiss was asked about that comment earlier this week, with the Reds boss thanking Brisbane-born McKellar for “helping to promote the game” in the Sunshine State of Queensland. With rival states facing off, a big crowd is expected at Brisbane’s famed sporting cauldron.

“It’s a big game on the calendar, isn’t it? [McKellar] has every right to feel confident, they’re a bloody good team,” Kiss told reporters this week.

“He’s a Queenslander and we’re just thankful he’s helping to promote the game up here for our crowd.

“Bottom line is we can throw words out there but there’s got to be action. We’re looking forward to the occasion, getting out there and just being who we are.”

The Reds have been boosted by the return of Hunter Paisami and Tom Lynagh for this round five match-up. Paisami has been named at inside centre after serving a suspension, while Lynagh will partner captain Tate McDermott in the halves.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

4

Draws

0

Wins

1

Average Points scored

32

23

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

60%

One-time Wallabies captain Liam Wright has unfortunately been ruled out of the match with an injury, with the backrower only recently returning from a significant stint on the sidelines. It’s another tough blow for Wright, who has been plagued by injuries for years.

Tim ‘Junkyard Dog’ Ryan will come up against the Waratahs’ Max Jorgensen, with both men no doubt eager to make a statement ahead of Wallabies selection in a matter of months. ‘Jorjo’ scored a double last time out against the Force and so nearly had a hat-trick.

Dual international Mat Rogers explained on Stan Sport that this match will have ramifications on Wallabies selection, saying “performing under pressure” is the key for those hoping to take on the British and Irish Lions in a blockbuster series.

“This is one of the big games on the rugby landscape in Australia in any year,” Kiss explained in a statement on Wednesday.

“For us, putting on the Queensland jersey to play at home to face [New South Wales] makes it even more compelling.

“The players and staff have reconnected with loved ones and friends since returning from two games on the road.

“The focus is 100 per cent on Saturday night and making the adjustments we need from our game against the Crusaders last weekend.”