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 in determining their title hopes. Although it’s only a month into the regular season, the stakes are high, and every game counts.
Host or Hell on the Road
Every season, the challenge of winning a Super Rugby title from outside the top three is a common topic of discussion. Historically, it’s been extremely difficult, with only two instances in 29 years where teams outside the top three managed to claim the championship. The Blues currently sit in third place with 33 points, while the Brumbies (fifth) and Reds (sixth) trail behind with 25 and 23 points respectively. The Blues have a tough run home, but if the Reds or Brumbies can surge, they might have a chance to take the spot.
Form Guide
QLD Reds
Les Kiss’ team delivered one of their best performances of the year in Christchurch despite losing to the Blues in a thrilling ‘super point’ finish. Prior to that, they had beaten the Crusaders but suffered a surprising defeat against the Western Force at Suncorp Stadium. However, the Reds have shown they can go on a winning streak, as evidenced by their four consecutive victories between rounds 3 and 6. The squad is expected to welcome back key players like Carter Gordon, Tate McDermott, and Tom Lynagh, who should be ready for the final stages of the season.
ACT Brumbies
Stephen Larkham’s team started the season strongly, with impressive wins against the Crusaders, Chiefs, and Blues. Unfortunately, they have faced some challenges recently, including a shock loss to the Fijian Drua. Charlie Cale is working his way back from injury, and Allan Alaalatoa is expected to return next week.
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
The upcoming match at Suncorp Stadium carries added pressure for the Brumbies, with only three games remaining in the regular season. They previously faced the Reds in Canberra, where the Reds scored two tries in the final three minutes to secure a stunning victory. Before that, the Brumbies had won five straight games against Queensland.
Key Players
COREY TOOLE (BRUMBIES #11)
Toole has never lost a game to Queensland and is considered Stephen Larkham’s most dangerous player. He leads the team in carry metres, line breaks, and defenders beaten. His performance against the Reds in his last game was outstanding, scoring a try and setting up another.
TIM RYAN (REDS #11)
Ryan has had an incredible season, troubling the Blues in their recent match. His try that helped take the game to extra time was one of the best finishes of the year. He is equal-second top try-scorer for 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 close contest, favoring the Reds by 4.5 points. It expects a high-scoring game with the under/over set at 54.5.
Match Details
Queensland Reds v ACT Brumbies
SAT 2 MAY: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane (7.35pm kickoff AEST)
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
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
