Brad Thorn says what we're all thinking following 'ridiculous yellow' card

In a postmatch press conference Brad Thorn was asked by a journalist "would you be asked would you be happy if I wrote that was the most ridiculously yellow card in the history of rugby?'

The question related to a yellow carded handed out to Number 8 Caleb Timu by referee Angus Gardner in the 34th minute of the Queensland Reds versus Brumbies game.

Thorn's response was apposite.

"What does my face say" joked Thorn.

"I see mixed martial arts going gangbusters all around the world, where they just go to war."

"There's that side of the game, that's what I loved. My time's well and truly gone but to get in big trouble you had to spear tackle someone or really take their head off.

"It's pretty stringent (now), I know they're doing their best ... (but) it's a contact sport. Let us enjoy some contact."

Thorn also spoke about the development of Taneila Tupou, who he says has 'god given talents' that can't be made in a gym.

Despite the yellow the Reds got their first win under new head coach Thorn, beating the Brumbies 18-10 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Friday night.

The tryless victory will be savoured by Thorn, but it leaves the Brumbies with more questions than answers after a less than impressive first-round victory over the Sunwolves.