3 minute read
Queensland Reds have been boosted by the return of James O'Connor for Friday's Super Rugby Pacifica clash with Melbourne Rebels at Suncorp Stadium.
The Reds picked up a crucial win over the Crusaders last week and the return of flyhalf O'Connor is set to provide them with an extra lift.
Les Kiss' men sit in fifth place on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder and can be backed at 1.04 to make the Playoffs.
The Rebels can be backed at 1.10 to do the same, as they sit one place and three points below the Reds.
They are on a poor run of form after losing the last two games, so should come out with a point to prove when they take to the field in Brisbane.
. What: Reds v Rebels
. Where: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
. When: 20:35, Friday 10th May 2024
. How to watch: Stan Sports
. Odds: Reds 1.16, Rebels 5.00
O'Connor back in the frame for Reds
It has been a frustrating 12 weeks for James O'Connor, who has been on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
The 33-year-old has suffered a number of setbacks along the way, but has been named to play and will be chomping at the bit to get out there.
The flyhalf can be backed at 2.87 to mark his return to the side with a try at anytime.
The Reds have a great record against the Rebels when winning seven of the last eight matches played between the two sides.
They have also won the last four games against the Rebels at Suncorp and are the hot fancies to make it five.
The Reds can be backed at 2.60 to win by 1-12 points or 1.91 to win by 13+.
The Reds have also been boosted by the returned of co-captain Tate McDermott, who will be eased back into the action via the bench.
Rebels look to bounce back
The Rebels had been going well after winning three games on the bounce, only to suffer back-to-back defeats against the Crusaders and Blues.
They need a response against the Reds, but their record against them has not been great. The only win in the last eight came in March 2023 when they won by six points.
The Rebels can be backed at 5.50 to repeat that achievement and win by 1-12 points on Friday night.
Kevin Foote's men can take heart from the fact that their away form this season has been solid to say the very least.
They have won two out of their last four matches on the road, both by narrow margins, so they are capable of getting the job done.
The Rebels beat the Waratahs and Moana Pasifika by six points, but the clash against the Reds will be another step up.
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