Scrum doctor Alec Evans believes the unheralded and unfashionable Reds pack can lay the foundations for major Super 14 upset at Suncorp Stadium.

While Queensland are equipped with a dangerous backline, their forwards are much maligned and not expected to challenge the Waratahs' set-piece authority.

But Evans, the renowned former Wallabies forwards coach, has praised the influence of new Reds coach Ewen McKenzie in transforming his pack.

"Their attitude is just fantastic," said Evans, who has assisted McKenzie coaching the scrum. "They're on a big learning curve but they have improved a lot.

"It's a big test for them this week against a well-coached NSW pack but I'm confident.

"Without saying too much I'm sure we can keep a level playing field there."

Players like Ben Daley, Laurie Weeks, Adam Byrnes and Scott Higginbotham cut their teeth in the Super 14 under Phil Mooney and have the chance to prove their credentials and cement places under McKenzie.

Evans was the Reds forwards coach in 2006 when they started the season against NSW at Suncorp Stadium and the first scrum exploded in punches.

He predicted another fiery clash on Saturday night as the Queenslanders confront a Test strength front row and back row.

"I don't think there will be any room for the faint-hearted," he said. "It's obviously Queensland v NSW.

"NSW will be professional and precise (but) it's not always about being precise and you just never know how people respond to the pressure."

Waratahs skipper Phil Waugh stressed the importance of discipline as a return to full-arm penalties from the free kicks of last year's experimental laws could see goalkicking play a major role.

Reds defector Berrick Barnes and his former playmaking buddy Quade Cooper will handle the kicking responsibilities which could decide the match.

"Discipline is certainly a massive part of the game I think," Waugh said.

"Penalties are important, as is goalkicking, goalkicking is going to be very important."

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