Shutting down Queensland Reds playmaker Quade Cooper isn’t about game plans, it’s about attitude, according to NSW Waratahs coach Michael Cheika.

Cooper and halves partner Will Genia showed glimpses of their best in last week’s Super Rugby opener against the Brumbies, and on Saturday night will hold the key to Queensland’s hopes of starting 2014 with back-to-back away wins against the Waratahs.

The dynamic Reds duo have returned to the unpredictable formula which made them close to unstoppable in 2011, and Cheika says the Waratahs can’t hope to stop everything that Wallabies five-eighth Cooper throws their way.

However, Cheika says his side can give themselves the best possible chance by avoiding mental lapses at any cost.

“It’s very hard, he’s got such unpredictability,” said Cheika.

“That’s why he’s such a good player.

“What we can do is have fast line-speed across the whole team, having a really aggressive and hard-working attitude in defence.

“It’s really up to us and we can limit his opportunities if we work hard without the ball.

“We’ve got to make sure when we get the chance to nail him, we do.”

Waratahs stand-in captain Michael Hooper says his team will be driven by hatred of Queensland, but above all are motivated by getting off to an all-important fast start in the competition.

Queensland have made one late change, with inside centre Mike Harris ruled out with an ankle problem and experienced campaigner Anthony Fainga’a called up.

Fainga’a has only played 30 minutes since undergoing a shoulder reconstruction six months ago and is eager to stake claim for a permanent starting spot in the Reds’ backline.

“I get my start this week and I’ll take that with two hands,” he said.

“The big thing out of this is trying to hold that position and owning that position.

“I’ve got a long way to go … but it couldn’t be a better game to be starting against the Waratahs.

“I think as an individual defensively, Mike and I are similar players. Not a lot has changed in terms of game plan and structure.”