BRISBANE: The Queensland Reds recorded their second win of the season when they beat the Central Cheetahs of South Africa 30-17 in their Super Rugby clash on Saturday.
After the two teams were locked together 10-10 at halftime, the Reds lifted in the second period to run out comfortable winners.
"It was pretty scrappy out there with the humidity, but obviously we're pretty happy," Queensland captain James Slipper said.
"It was a slippery ball. Both teams struggled with that, but our set piece dominated tonight and we got the win.
"Overall we're tracking in the right direction, but we just want to build some momentum now."
Scrumhalf Nick Frisby put his hand up for Wallaby selection with an outstanding display that included two tries, while number eight Curtis Browning scored the Reds' other five-pointer.
However, for the first 40 minutes the Cheetahs were the better team, dominating both possession and territory.
The Reds were their own worst enemies in the first half with a host of dropped balls and some ill-discipline that saw inside centre Anthony Fainga'a shown a yellow card for foul play.
After both sides traded early penalties, the Cheetahs crossed for the first try when lock Uzair Cassiem scored from a rolling maul.
The visitors looked certain to take their lead into the break but right on halftime the Reds' dominant scrum won a tighthead on the Cheetahs' line and Browning crashed over to level the scores.
The Reds' ball control was far better in the second period and they hit the front six minutes after the restart when Frisby crossed in the corner following a 60-metre movement from the Queensland backs.
Jake McIntyre converted from the sideline to make it 17-10, then took the score out to 20-10 with a penalty.
Frisby then put Queensland firmly in the driver's seat with his second try following a dart from 10 metres out.
The Cheetahs looked to be flagging in the heat and humidity, but they struck back with a try to winger Raymond Rhule in the corner.
However, McIntyre's third penalty put the game beyond the Cheetahs' reach.
Cheetahs captain Lood de Jager said his team had struggled with the conditions.
"Out set piece let us down tonight," he said.
"The ball was extremely wet, it's extremely humid here.
"I've never played in conditions like this, but no excuses, we need to execute better."
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