#9 Mike Harris
Aussie Mike’s value to the Queensland Reds was always more than just what he produced directly on the field. Harris was one of the most popular Reds off the field, to all types of fans. When a club decides to cut a player like Harris, the fans get understandably concerned. Angry even. Harris was part of an exodus from last year’s team which includes Albert Anae, Rod Davies, Ben Lucas, Dom Shipperley and Aidan Toua.
Harris’s loss is the most significant of this ‘Class of 14’. If there are two positions that the Reds have struggled with since 2011 it has been covering an injured Quade at 10 and filling the 15 jersey. Harris had ably done this on countless occasions. Add to this his most dependable of boots, something the team have missed significantly this season, and his high level performances for the Rebels and we fans continue to shake our heads in disbelief at his departure.
Quality goal kicking is a rare commodity in Australian Rugby and for the Reds to give one up so readily has ‘mistake’ written all over it. Especially when you consider we currently sit at less than 50% effectiveness in this department.
