The Queensland Reds have fallen short of victory in their opening fixture of the 2019 Super Rugby season, going down to the Highlanders 36-31 in a thrilling match at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin.
Queensland held the lead with just ten minutes remaining in a high intensity match, before a 74th minute try sealed a win for the home side.
The Reds scored four tries in the defeat, with excellent displays from centre pairing Jordan Petaia and Samu Kerevi, as well as Super Rugby debutants Isaac Lucas and Feao Fotuaika.
“The boys put in a big effort,” said Reds head coach Brad Thorn.
“We had the edge there in the end, but it’s about putting the foot on the throat and we missed that opportunity.
“We’ll continue to work to get that ruthlessness as a team.
“A lot of good stuff happened for us today.
“I appreciated the composure when we were two tries down, but it’s disappointing to let that opportunity slide.”