By TOM PRIMMER

The University of Queensland made a strong start to their 2021 campaign, proving too strong for their historical rivals Brothers at St Lucia.

Last year’s runners-up raced out of the blocks in front of their home crowd, with tries to Finn Hearn, Fergus Lillicrap and Reds hooker Josh Nasser opening up an early 19-0 lead for the Heavies.

The Brethren fought managed to claw their way back to draw level at 19-all early in the second stanza, before the Students responded again to claim an 11-point victory.

The UQ forward pack laid the platform for the hosts, with the likes of Will Roach, Connor Vest and Hamish Richardson among the side’s best, while youngster Hearn scored a double in his first Premier Grade start.

UQ Assistant Coach Elton Berrange was pleased with his side’s ability to press forward against a Brethren side who refused to go away.

“I was impressed with our effort to grind out the result,” Berrange said.

“We had a fast start and then had some unforced errors which Brothers were good enough to exploit and even up the score.

“It meant we had to grind out the result and we’ll benefit from that experience.”

“We’ll be building on our set piece and details in defence, particularly the first three phases, this week.”

UQ will face Souths at Chipsy Wood Oval this weekend, while Brothers travel to Sylvan Road to take on Wests.

University of Queensland 31 (Tries: Finn Hearn 2, Josh Nasser, Hamish Richardson, Sam Wallis, Cons: Kye Oates 3) d Brothers 19 (Tries: Sam Hyne, Paddy James, Noah Nielsen, Cons: Mitch Felsman 2)