SUPER POINT VICTORY FOR BLUES OVER REDS

A composed golden point penalty from Beauden Barrett has secured a dramatic 36-33 victory for the Blues, closing out a pulsating Super Round clash with the Queensland Reds in Christchurch.

In front of a capacity crowd at One NZ Stadium, the Blues showed both attacking class and resilience, holding their nerve in extra time after the Reds mounted a determined second-half comeback.

The Blues set the tone early, building a 21-7 lead through sharp execution and clinical finishing. Fullback Zarn Sullivan was a standout in the opening spell, crossing for a first-half double as the home side took control.

Despite the Reds closing the gap, the Blues again extended their advantage to 33-21 with 15 minutes remaining, looking in command of the contest. However, the visitors refused to go away, eventually forcing extra time with a late converted try.

Golden point proved a test of composure, and the Blues delivered.

Applying sustained pressure deep in Reds territory, the breakthrough came when a ruck infringement handed Barrett the opportunity to decide the match. From a slight angle, the experienced playmaker made no mistake, calmly slotting the match-winning penalty.

The result continues a strong showing for New Zealand sides during Super Round and sees the Blues maintain momentum in a tightly contested ladder.

Alongside Sullivan’s double, tries to Cole Forbes, Dalton Papali'i and Bradley Slater highlighted a well-rounded attacking performance, while Barrett added four conversions and the decisive penalty.

In a match that tested both physicality and mental resolve, the Blues showed their ability to close out high-pressure moments.

Blues 36: (Tries: Sullivan 2, Forbes, Papali'i, Slater; Cons: Barrett 4; Pens: Barrett) 
Queensland Reds 33: (Tries: McReight, Wilson, Campbell, Ryan, Werchon; McLaughlin-Phillips 3, Volavola)
Referee: James Doleman