The Brumbies regained their spot at the top of the Rugby AU log after a convincing bonus-point win of 38-11 over the Waratahs. The major difference between the two teams was the ability of the Brumbies to convert their try-scoring opportunities while the urgency from the Waratahs lacked at critical moments in the game.
The Waratahs made a good start and almost scored a try after eight minutes n the first half. Unfortunately, the conditions not favourable for running rugby with the moist conditions making the lineouts a gamble. A controversial try awarded to the Brumbies gave them the edge with 7-3 at the end of the first quarter.
The Brumbies constant increasing dominance resulted in their second try of the first half after setting up camp in the Waratahs' 22. A try with three minutes to go in the first half was just reward for the Waratahs' efforts at that stage. Although the Brumbies had the majority of possession and territory, the game at halftime perfectly reflected the score. The Brumbies in the lead by 12-11.
Five minutes into the second half the Brumbies struck first and extended their lead to 19-11 and again looking as if they have control of the game. The fourth try by Tom Wright gave the Brumbies a comfortable lead of 26-11 and 25 minutes to go. A double by Tom Wright sealed the game for the Brumbies as they extended their lead to 31-11 with 20 minutes to go.
Pete Samu scored his second try with eight minutes to gave the Brumbies their sixth try and extended their lead to 38-11. The last 20 minutes not played at the standards during the previous quarters. The Brumbies ends the weekend at the top of the log with 23 points will the Brumbies are still third but are 8 points behind the Brumbies
The Brumbies will host the Western Force next weekend for the final spot in the playoffs, while the Waratahs will play in their final match of the season against the Rebels.
Scorers:
Brumbies: Tries: Ryan Lonergan, Pete Samu (2), Andy Murihead, Tom Wright (2). Conversions: Ryan Lonergan (2), Bayley Kuenzle (2).
Waratahs: Try: Jack Dempsey. Penalties: Will Harrison (2)
Waratahs: 1. Tom Robertson, 2. Tom Horton, 3. Harry Johnson-Holmes, 4. Ned Hanigan, 5. Rob Simmons (c), 6. Lachie Swinton, 7. Michael Hooper, 8. Jack Dempsey, 9. Jake Gordon, 10. Will Harrison, 11. Alex Newsome, 12. Karmichael Hunt, 13. Joey Walton, 14. James Ramm, 15. Jack Maddocks. Replacements: 16. Robbie Abel, 17. Angus Bell, 18. Te Tera Faulkner, 19. Tom Staniforth, 20. Hugh Sinclair, 21. Mitch Short, 22. Ben Donaldson, 23. Lalakai Foketi.
Brumbies: 1. James Slipper, 2. Connal McInerney, 3. Allan Alaalatoa (c), 4. Murray Douglas, 5. Cadeyrn Neville, 6. Lachlan McCaffrey, 7. Will Miller, 8. Pete Samu, 9. Ryan Lonergan, 10. Bayley Kuenzle, 11. Tom Wright, 12. Irae Simone, 13. Solomone Kata, 14. Andy Murihead, 15. Tom Banks. Replacements: 16. Lachlan Lonergan, 17. Scott Sio, 18. Tom Ross, 19. Darcy Swain, 20. Rob Valetini, 21. Tom Cusack, 22. Nic White, 23 Len Ikitau.