More good news for Reds

FRESH OFF wining their maiden Super Rugby title, the Reds have secured the signatures of two key cogs in their championship-winning team.

Back-rowers Beau Robinson and Radike Samo – both of have been named in the Wallabies’ 40-man Tri Nations squad – have re-signed with the Brisbane-based franchise until the end of 2013.

“We came to an agreement with both players midway through the regular season but chose to hold off on officially announcing it to avoid the distraction and to ensure we remained focused solely on winning the Super Rugby competition,” says coach Ewen McKenzie.

“That has now been accomplished and with their selection for the Wallabies, it’s an opportune moment to publicise the good news.

“Retaining our talent is a major priority that we invest a lot of time in, so it’s pleasing to see both Beau and Radike recognise the systems we have in place and choose to remain with us in the coming years.”

Robinson and Samo were instrumental figures in the Reds record-breaking 2011 season and were duly rewarded with Wallabies selection in the 40-man squad announced for their upcoming Test against Samoa and the Tri Nations series.

Robinson initially joined the Reds during the off-season without a fulltime contract although his work ethic at training and standout play on the field resulted in the 24-year old earning a place in the contracted squad.

“It’s a fairytale story and it means a lot to be part of what we’ve achieved – it’s pretty special,” he says.

“We’ve got a useful squad and have been able to retain a lot of the boys again, so we have some interesting times ahead.”

Samo first played for the Reds in late 2010 to cover their mounting injury toll late in the season, where his performances in the final two matches were noticed and rewarded by McKenzie with a contract for 2011.

Fijian-born Samo continued his stellar play throughout the course of this season and has been re-called into the Wallabies squad – seven years after making his test debut for Australia.

“Winning a Super Rugby final is something you never forget and there are some exciting times ahead for the Reds,” he says.

“It was good to be part of this season and the boys are looking forward to playing together again next year.”