A Look Back at the Super Round in Christchurch
Before diving into the upcoming crucial clash between the Queensland Reds and ACT Brumbies, it’s worth reflecting on last weekend’s Super Round held in Christchurch. The event was a testament to how far Super Rugby has come in elevating its marquee rounds. While the NRL and AFL have long set the standard for their respective major events, Super Rugby has finally caught up with an event that matches the quality of its rivals.
Christchurch proved to be the perfect location for the Super Round. With a world-class enclosed stadium, the city is now a prime candidate for hosting future events. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from all over the country making the trip to support their teams. Every pub, restaurant, and pre-game gathering was buzzing with excitement, and the streets were filled with smiling fans. It was clear that both players and coaches were fully engaged, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Over 4,000 Australians made the journey to Christchurch, adding to the vibrant energy around the city. Beyond the stadium, visitors enjoyed a range of activities such as golfing at the Christchurch and Clearwater Resort, trout fishing in remote rivers, and exploring the region’s renowned wineries. I even met a group of Waratahs fans at Sumner Beach, just 15 minutes from the stadium. The area is stunning, with locals surfing while enjoying the view of snow-covered mountain ranges in the distance.
Super Round in Christchurch: A Must-Do Event
The 2027 Super Round in Christchurch is already shaping up to be an unmissable event. As we look ahead to the 2026 season, the match between the Reds and Brumbies could be a defining moment for both teams’ title hopes. Despite being only a month into the regular season, the stakes are high, and as the saying goes, “it is what it is.”
Host or Hell on the Road
Every year, the challenge of winning a Super Rugby title from outside the top three is significant. Only two instances in 29 years have seen a team achieve this feat, with the Crusaders in 1999 and the Highlanders in 2015. Currently, the Blues sit in third place with 33 points, while the Brumbies (fifth) and Reds (sixth) trail with 25 and 23 points respectively. The Blues have a tough run home, which presents an opportunity for the Reds or Brumbies to close the gap if they can secure a strong finish.
Form Guide
QLD REDS
Les Kiss’ team delivered one of their best performances of the year in Christchurch, despite losing in a ‘super point’ to the Blues. Prior to that, they had beaten the Crusaders but suffered a surprising defeat against the Western Force at Suncorp Stadium. However, they have shown the potential to go on a winning streak, having claimed four straight victories between rounds 3 and 6. The squad is set to welcome back several key players, including Carter Gordon, Tate McDermott, and Tom Lynagh, who are expected to return from injury in the final stages of the season.
ACT BRUMBIES
Stephen Larkham’s squad started the season strongly, with impressive performances against the Crusaders, Chiefs, and Blues. Unfortunately, recent form has been inconsistent, with three of their last four matches ending in defeat. They suffered a shock loss to the Fijian Drua in Canberra, marking the visitors’ first win in the city. Charlie Cale is working his way back from injury, and Allan Alaalatoa should be available for the latter part of the regular season.
The Run Home
QLD REDS:
BRUMBIES (H), CHIEFS (H), FORCE (A), MOANA PASIFIKA (A), FIJIAN DRUA (H)
ACT BRUMBIES:
REDS (A), FORCE (H), BYE, WARATAHS (A), MOANA PASIFIKA (H)
The Suncorp Showdown
Saturday night’s game at Suncorp Stadium carries added pressure for the Brumbies, with only three games remaining in the season. The two teams have already faced each other this year, with the Reds scoring two tries in the final three minutes to stun the Brumbies in Canberra. Previously, the Brumbies had won five consecutive matches against Queensland.
Key Players
COREY TOOLE (BRUMBIES #11)
Toole has never lost a game to Queensland and is currently Stephen Larkham’s most dangerous player. He leads his side in carry metres, line breaks, and defenders beaten. His performance against the Reds in his last game was outstanding, with a try and an assist.
TIM RYAN (REDS #11)
Ryan has had an exceptional year, troubling the Blues in their last match. His try that forced extra time was one of the best finishes of the season. He is equal-second in try-scoring among Australian backs in 2026 and has scored 11 tries in 16 games at Suncorp Stadium.
Key Stats
- The Queensland Reds have won 20 of their last 25 home derby games at Suncorp Stadium.
- Ten of the last 15 games between these sides have been decided by six points or less.
- The Brumbies have won their last three starts at Suncorp.
Algorithm Says
The algorithm predicts a 4.5-point advantage for the Queensland Reds and expects a high-scoring game, with the under/over set at 54.5.
Match Lineups
Queensland Reds (1-15):
Aidan Ross, Matt Faessler, Zane Nonggorr, Seru Uru, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Joe Brial, Fraser McReight (c), Harry Wilson, Kalani Thomas, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Tim Ryan, Hunter Paisami, Josh Flook, Filipo Daugunu, Jock Campbell
Replacements:
Josh Nasser, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Nick Bloomfield, Hamish Muller, Vaiuta Latu, Louis Werchon, Ben Volavola, Treyvon Pritchard
ACT Brumbies (1-15):
James Slipper, Lachlan Lonergan, Rhys van Nek, Nick Frost, Lachlan Shaw, Rob Valetini, Rory Scott, Toby Macpherson, Ryan Lonergan (c), Declan Meredith, Corey Toole, David Feliuai, Kadin Pritchard, Andy Muirhead, Tom Wright
Replacements:
Liam Bowron, Blake Schoupp, Darcy Breen, Cadeyrn Neville, Luke Reimer, Klayton Thorn, Tane Edmed, Ollie Sapsford
Referee:
Ben O’Keeffe
Assistant referees:
Todd Petrie, Warwick Lahmert
TMO:
Richard Kelly
