Two dubious tries helped the Queensland Reds hold off a brave late charge from the inexperienced Highlanders and win their Super 14 rugby opener 22-16 last night.
South African referee Marius Jonker awarded two Reds tries from rucks near the Highlanders' line, but replays cast serious doubt on
whether either was scored.
The Reds led 19-9 until the Highlanders stormed home with their only try, a 74th minute effort by replacement forward Adam Thomson, to earn a bonus point.
It set up a thrilling final few minutes, but the visitors spilled the ball from a promising attack and the Reds kicked it clear before Clinton Schifkofske nailed a penalty for the hosts on the fulltime hooter.
The Highlanders were up against it, starting the new season without departed All Blacks Anton Oliver, Carl Hayman, Clarke Dermody and Nick Evans, and with lock James Ryan and captain Craig Newby injured.
The Reds, under new coach Phil Mooney, were at full strength for the first time since April 2003.
The relative differences showed early on as the Reds dominated and scored two tries.
But the second, to winger Clinton Schifcofske, was dubious as it appeared fullback Paul Williams had clearly held the ball up.
In the second half, the Highlanders forwards began to muscle their opponents off the ball, and their speedy backs relished the extra space.
But a Williams penalty was all they had to show for a sustained period of attack after the break.
A key moment was the sinbinning of giant Highlanders prop Jamie Mackintosh for a late swinging arm in the 60th minute.
From the penalty, a Reds' lineout drive took them to the goal line and Roe was awarded the try by Jonker who checked with the television referee, but seemed sure Roe had scored.
Highlanders captain Jason Macdonald said his team had been determined to start the season strongly, but had made too many mistakes.
- NZPA
Photos: Super 14 kicks off
