As tempting as it might be, Queensland Reds coach Phil Mooney looks set to avoid rushing Peter Hynes into Friday night's Super 14 away clash with the Western Force despite his rookie wingers being exposed by the Chiefs.

Mooney hasn't categorically ruled out a return for Wallaby winger Hynes, who had a piece of floating bone removed from his left knee during arthroscopic surgery last Thursday.

But the Reds mentor on Tuesday threw his support behind rookie winger Blair Connor and league convert Rod Davies.

Mooney was forced to shift Digby Ioane to the wing in the second half of their 50-26 loss to the Chiefs at Suncorp Stadium last Saturday night after Davies and Connor were monstered by the classy back three of Mils Muliaina, Sitiveni Sivivatu and Lelia Masaga.

But Mooney said on Tuesday: "One bad performance doesn't make you a bad player or a bad team.

"The guys performed very well the game before so there won't be a lot of changes, if any.

"We're aware we need to be better this week and the boys have gone about their work so far with good enthusiasm."

Mooney announces his team on Tuesday.

Hynes is more likely to make his return at Invercargill against the Highlanders on April 11.

Queensland have ruled out prop Greg Holmes (shoulder) for another week but believe halfback Ben Lucas (ribs) will be fit to play.

Queensland's three previous meetings against the Force (2-1 to the Reds) have been grudge matches due to the WA team's pillaging of Reds stocks in 2005.

But Mooney said the Reds had moved on.

The ladder position of Queensland and the Force - 11th and 12th respectively - was motivation enough for this week, according to Mooney.

"Both teams are obviously in a desperate situation with where we're placed on the table," he said.

"And it is a derby game, so I guess (Wallabies coach) Robbie Deans will be watching this one a little closer."

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