/ 23 February 1999

INJURIES PLAGUE REDS

QUEENSLAND Reds, already hit by a long-term injury to key forward John Eales, have more injury problems ahead of Saturday’s opening Super 12 match against Wellington in Brisbane. The Reds have named Test centre Daniel Herbert and winger Ben Tune for their first game even though both are considered doubtful. Coach John Connolly’s decision to name Tune surprised Australian Rugby Union officials who believed he would be out with a knee injury for several weeks. Herbert is more likely to play but faces a battle against a knee ligament strain which usually takes two to three weeks to heal. Better news for Queensland is that Elton Flatley has recovered from a head knock and is considered fit.