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Matt Faessler is proof the Queensland’s “next man up” mentality is more than just talk as the Super Rugby Pacific side deals with a different positional dilemma for their season opener.
The opportunistic hooker was your average punter when Richie Asiata broke his arm in a pre-season trial last year.
Versatile backrower Seru Uru is likely to be thrust into the lineout in the absence of injured locks Luke Jones (neck), Ryan Smith (shoulder) and Angus Blyth (ankle).Credit:Getty
He had just left town for NSW’s Shute Shield, but with fellow hooker Josh Nasser also sidelined he was rushed back to Ballymore and thrust into the big time.
Faessler finished the season on an Australia A tour with a new Reds contract and is set to start in the front row ahead of Asiata against the Hurricanes in Townsville on Saturday.
“I watched the trial when Rich broke his arm and you sort of wonder if you’ll get the call,” he said after Monday’s gym session.
The Townsville clash represents a golden chance for coach Brad Thorn’s men to stop the rot against Kiwi opposition.Credit:Getty Images
“It ended up being the case. A lot of people get their opportunities that way.
“Rugby is a fickle game; I was just playing club footy, minding my own business and then was thrown into the deep end. But I’ve loved every minute.”
It’s at lock where the Reds are now scrambling, with recruit Luke Jones (neck) an unlikely starter, Ryan Smith (shoulder) an outside shot and Angus Blyth (ankle) no chance of playing.