The Queensland Reds have rebounded from a 14-point deficit to finish over the top of the Western Force and claim a high-scoring Super Rugby AU affair at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

The Reds found themselves down two tries after the first 15 minutes but a hat-trick of their own in the first half set them on a path to a 31-24 victory, their first triumph over the Force in five years.

The visitors had the chance to send the game into super time but a knock-on ensured it ended at 80 minutes, with the Reds capitalising on a strong scrum and overcoming a second-half yellow card to centre Hunter Paisami.

James O'Connor helped himself to a drop goal in the 78th minute to have the final say as the Reds completed their second win of the revamped Super season.

It looked as if it would be a difficult night for the Reds as Jack McGregor and Byron Ralston crossed in quick succession. But Brad Thorn's team showed some resilience to regroup and return fire with a trio of tries of their own.

Both teams crossed in the second half but the boot of O'Connor would be a factor, with the former Wallaby ending with four conversions and a drop goal.